Millions of adults have already completed orthodontic treatment, and there are currently about one million adult orthodontic patients in North America and Canada looking forward to improved and beautiful smiles. Age doesn’t need to be a consideration in orthodontic treatment as healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age.

Longer life expectancies and a greater awareness among adults that teeth can last a lifetime leads many of today’s adults to better care for their teeth. The good news is that the rate of toothlessness among people ages 55-64 has dropped 60 percent since 1960.

While plaque is difficult to remove effectively from improperly aligned teeth, orthodontic treatment makes plaque removal easier because misalignment is eliminated and the likelihood that teeth will last for a lifetime is increased.

Orthodontists are uniquely qualified dental specialists correcting improperly aligned teeth and jaws. The American Dental Association (ADA) requires orthodontists to have at least two academic years of advanced specialty training in orthodontics in a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the ADA, following graduation from a three-to-five year dental school program.

One in five orthodontic patients today is an adult, so orthodontists like Dr. Theodorou are familiar with adults’ concerns and potential special needs. As an example, if a patient has gum disease or is in need of fillings or other restorations, Dr. Theodorou works closely with your dentist and any other dental specialists involved to deliver the healthy and beautiful smile you’re seeking.

There are many options with braces for adults today, some braces are smaller and less noticeable while others are clear and difficult for others to notice, so adults need not be concerned about how they will look in braces. In any case, Dr. Theodorou is happy to answer the questions you may have.