Orthodontics for adults deals with the correction of misaligned teeth and jaws in patients who have already passed adolescence. It is becoming increasingly important as more and more adults attach importance to an aesthetic smile and healthy dental function. In contrast to orthodontics for children and adolescents, where growth can still be utilized, treatment for adults focuses on the adaptation of existing structures.
Aims of orthodontics for adults
Preparation for dental prostheses: creation of optimal conditions for crowns, bridges or implants.
Aesthetics: Improving the position of the teeth and the smile.
Function: Optimization of the occlusion, jaw function and articulation.
Health: Facilitates oral hygiene by correcting crowding, preventing caries and periodontitis.
Special challenges
Customization: Aesthetic and professional requirements of the patient influence the choice of treatment method.
Bone growth: Since jaw growth is complete, surgical measures are sometimes necessary to correct major malocclusions.
Periodontal health: Treatment must be carried out gently, as the risk of gum and bone damage is higher in adults.
Treatment options
Surgical orthodontics: Orthodontic surgery may be necessary for severe misalignments.
Fixed braces: Metal or ceramic brackets that are bonded to the teeth. They offer precise control, but are less discreet.
Aligner trays (e.g. Invisalign) – What are aligner trays?
Aligner trays are transparent, removable plastic trays that are specially made for patients. They exert gentle pressure on the teeth and gradually move them into the desired position.
Procedure for treatment with aligners:
First, a 3D scan or impression of the teeth is taken.
Special software is used to simulate the treatment plan and the individual aligners are custom-made.
The aligners are usually worn for 20-22 hours a day and changed every 1-2 weeks.
Advantages of aligners:
Discreet and almost invisible, ideal for professionals.
Comfortable and easy to clean.
Removable, which makes eating and oral hygiene easier.
Restrictions:
Not suitable for all malpositions.
Requires discipline and consistent wearing.
Lingual technique: Brackets are attached to the inside of the teeth and are invisible.
Modern orthodontics offers adults a wide range of aesthetic and functional options for correcting misaligned teeth effectively and discreetly. Aligner splints are one of the most popular options, as they enable discreet, comfortable and flexible treatment.
