smile blog

It’s a common misconception that braces and other corrective orthodontic treatments are only for children and teens. In fact, on average, one in five patients that see an orthodontist are over the age of 21, and more than 92% of adults agree that an attractive smile is an important social asset. Today, many adult patients are seeking treatment that simply wasn’t available when they were kids, or was inaccessible for other reasons.

Orthodontists for Adults

How do you choose an orthodontist that’s right for you? There are a wide variety of factors to consider; from treatment options, to office location to payment plans, it’s important to find a professional and knowledgeable orthodontist who can help you realize the benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile.

It’s also important to choose an orthodontist with experience in treating adults. Treatment for mature patients is much different than treatment for children and teens who are still growing and developing. There are also different social considerations in treating adults vs children and teens. Many adult patients are reluctant to seek treatment because of the perceived social stigma attached to having braces as an adult. At Docbraces, nearly 50% of our patients are adults, so our orthodontists are well versed in helping mature patients achieve straight, healthy smiles.

Adult Treatment Options

Luckily, orthodontic technology has advanced considerably and the orthodontists at Docbraces are pleased to offer several discrete options that are aesthetically pleasing and popular for adult patients.

• 1. Invisalign

• Docbraces is proud to be an Elite level provider of Invisalign, which means we have successfully treated over 300 patients using this discreet and flexible treatment option and are ranked among the Top 5% of providers in North America.

• With Invisalign, patients wear a series of clear, removable orthodontic aligners that are adjusted as the teeth shift into place without the use of metal or wires.

• This is a popular treatment method for adult patients because they are virtually undetectable when worn and they can be removed so you can still enjoy your favourite foods during treatment.

2. Clear Braces

• Clear braces are extremely comfortable, effective and discreet because the colourless brackets and wires blend in with the natural colour of your teeth.

• The Docbraces team is a Canadian pioneer in using Clarity SL, the newest type of clear braces. These totally clear braces use light force to move your teeth and are resistant to staining. They combine tieless brackets and high technology archwires that work to move teeth quickly and comfortably.

• These braces require fewer adjustments and therefore fewer appointments, making them ideal for those with busy schedules.

3. Friction-Free Braces

• Friction-free ceramic braces offer a faster and more comfortable treatment option than traditional braces.

• They use light, high-tech, specially shaped memory wires that move your teeth much faster than conventional braces.

• Treatment time can be reduced by as much as six months using this aesthetically-pleasing form of treatment.

These modern, high-tech options mean faster treatment times and fewer appointments for adjustments — and fewer visits to the orthodontist means you have to spend less time juggling your busy schedule. If you choose to pursue treatment with Docbraces, we’ve made sure our offices are as comfortable and convenient as possible. We have onsite amenities such as wireless internet access, complimentary coffee and hot chocolate, and select locations offer flexible hours for appointments to help make treatment as easy and comfortable as possible.

Orthodontist Fees for Adults

In our experience, many adults see cost as a prohibitive factor in seeking orthodontic treatment. Docbraces offers flexible payment options to ensure you can reach an agreement that works for you. Orthodontic work is a big investment, but with the right support, it can be easily accessible from a financial standpoint.

Orthodontist’s Location

Another factor to consider in your decisions is location. It’s important to choose a location that is convenient for you and your lifestyle. If you prefer early morning appointments, but have to face rush hour traffic to get to work afterwards, it might be wise to choose a different, more convenient location. With several locations across the Maritimes in Halifax, Dartmouth, Amherst, Moncton, Charlottetown, Truro and Summerside, a Docbraces clinic is easily accessible and conveniently located, wherever you are.

Talk to a Docbraces Orthodontist

Finally, like any other major purchase, it’s important to do your research to determine the best fit for you. It’s important to feel comfortable with your orthodontist, to be able to ask them questions and to trust their answers. An open line of communication will go a long way toward a positive orthodontic experience.