Orthodontics for Adults VS Orthodontics for Children and Teens

In a perfect world, all children would develop perfectly beautiful teeth aligned within perfectly beautiful smiles. However, we all recognize that this idea is just a wishful dream, which is why the American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic assessment around the age of seven. Obviously, children who show signs of misalignment of teeth or show a dysfunctional jaw or bite are strong candidates for interceptive orthodontic care. Both children and adults are inclined to develop teeth that rotate or become misaligned. Sadly, for many reasons, some children are not able to receive orthodontic treatment as children, and the aging process often makes these misalignments of teeth and jaw become more pronounced for them as they become adults. At Kemp Orthodontics over 40% of all our orthodontic patients are adults who, for many reasons, are ready to get the treatment they were unable to achieve as children.

The primary difference between treating adults and treating children involves working with natural growth patterns. With young children, orthodontic treatment is designed to work with the natural growth of the jawbone as these children physically develop. In adults, however, these bones have stopped growing, and the orthodontist must develop a treatment plan to augment the natural growth pattern. In addition to these growth patterns, other differences between orthodontic treatment for adults versus orthodontic treatment for children include:

1. Gum or bone loss (periodontal disease) — Adults are more likely than children to experience gum recession or even bone loss due to gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease. Patients with straighter teeth are less likely to get gum disease.
2. Worn or missing teeth — As humans age, their teeth can become worn down and shift into different positions that can only be corrected with orthodontic care. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift and tilt, creating a bad bite and increasing the possibility of gum disease.
3. Incomplete orthodontic treatment as a teen — Some adults received orthodontic treatment as a child or teen but never completed their treatment. As adults, they choose to complete their orthodontic treatment to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they always wanted.

Kemp Orthodontics recognizes that adults and children have different orthodontic needs that require a different level of attention and care. Everyone deserves a beautiful smile, regardless of age. Come on over and see how Dr. Kemp can transform your smile into that perfect smile you desire.