Adult Orthodontics: It’s Never Too Late for a Perfect Smile

A confident smile can open doors, but for many adults, the idea of braces feels like a chapter they missed. Today, more adults than ever are choosing to rewrite that story. Newly published research shows that over 70% of orthodontists have reported a rise in adult patients seeking straighter teeth in the past three years. 

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about looks; it’s also about better oral health, renewed confidence, and proving that the right time for self-care is whenever you decide it is — and with modern, discreet orthodontic treatment options now available, achieving your perfect smile has never been more possible.

Read on to discover more about an orthodontic journey as an adult and where to find the best orthodontist for braces in Manitowoc. 

Why Consider Orthodontic Treatment as an Adult?

Orthodontic treatment can correct common dental issues that enhance the appearance of your smile, such as: 

• Crooked teeth
• Overbites, where the upper teeth extend too far over lower teeth
• Underbites, where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth
• Open bites, when your upper and lower teeth do not fully come together when you close your mouth
• Misaligned upper and lower teeth 
• Jaw problems, even those associated with temporomandibular disorders (TMD)

Adult orthodontic treatments offer numerous benefits beyond just straightening your teeth for an improved smile. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Better alignment can also help prevent excessive wear on tooth enamel, relieve jaw pain, and improve chewing and speaking abilities. 

If the thought of traditional metal braces is holding you back, we have great news. Advances in orthodontic options like clear aligners and ceramic braces make treatment more discreet and comfortable than ever, making it a practical choice for adults looking to invest in their long-term dental health and confidence.

Exploring Adult Treatment Options: Braces vs. Invisalign

Patients should consider several key differences when choosing between traditional braces and a clear aligner option such as Invisalign: 

• Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires permanently fixed to teeth, while Invisalign uses removable, virtually invisible clear plastic aligners. 
• While braces typically cost less compared to Invisalign, they're more noticeable and can cause initial discomfort from wires and brackets. 
• Invisalign offers greater flexibility since aligners can be removed for eating and cleaning, but it requires strict compliance: to be effective, it must be worn 20-22 hours daily. 
• Dental treatment duration varies by case since adult teeth move slower than adolescent teeth. Traditional braces typically take 18-24 months, and Invisalign averages 12-18 months. 

Another factor that can help you decide between braces and Invisalign is the fact that braces are more effective for complex dental issues, while Invisalign works best for mild to moderate alignment problems. The choice ultimately depends on your specific dental needs, lifestyle preferences, and budget.

What to Expect When Getting Adult Orthodontic Treatment in Manitowoc and Sheboygan

The orthodontic treatment journey begins with an initial consultation. During this visit, an orthodontist examines your teeth, takes dental X-rays, and takes digital impressions. These help the orthodontist create a personalized treatment plan. 

Once treatment starts, whether with braces or aligners, you'll have regular appointments every four to eight weeks for adjustments or to get a new set of aligners. Experiencing some discomfort is normal with either choice, especially in the first few days after adjustments. This discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax for braces. 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential during your orthodontic journey. To ensure you have the best outcome, you should: 

• Brush thoroughly after meals
• Use special flossing tools or water flossers for braces
• If you have aligners, clean them daily and keep them in their case when eating

Most adults adapt to their orthodontic treatment within a few weeks, and following your orthodontist's instructions carefully helps ensure the best possible results in the shortest time frame.

Finding the Best Orthodontist for Adult Braces and Invisalign in Manitowoc and Sheboygan

Just Orthodontics combined deep-rooted family expertise with cutting-edge treatment approaches to become the top choice for adult orthodontics in Manitowoc. Dr. Ethan Just, a fourth-generation dentist and third-generation orthodontist, brings not only his own expertise but also a century's worth of family dental wisdom to every patient interaction. This unique heritage, dating back to 1919, translates into an unmatched level of experience and understanding of orthodontic care. 

Just Orthodontics embraces the latest technological advances while maintaining the personalized, caring approach that comes from deep community roots along the lakeshore. 

At Just Orthodontics, you will benefit from state-of-the-art treatment options delivered with the kind of trusted, relationship-based care that can only come from a practice that truly understands its community. Whether you're considering braces or Invisalign, you'll find comfort in knowing you're being treated by a practice that combines generations of expertise with modern innovation.