Adult Orthodontic Awareness

By Jacqueline Brown Bryant, DDS, MS, PC

Jacqueline Brown-Bryant, DDS Orthodontics

. http://www.smileconstructors.com/

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Adult Orthodontic Awareness

Healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. Millions of people in the United States and Canada are currently being treated by members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). One in five patients is an adult. Orthodontic treatment moves teeth in the same way for a 75-year old as it does for a 13-year old. Orthodontists are trained to spot abnormalities and develop a treatment solution to address the problems and create a healthier dental environment. Keep in mind, those considering orthodontic treatment, healthy teeth and bone can be moved at any age.

Adults need not shy away from treatment because of their ages or past dental problems. If someone is self-conscious about their smile, orthodontic treatment can provide adults with the same benefits younger patients enjoy. Less visible orthodontic materials have made adult orthodontic treatment increasingly popular in recent years. Understand that some malocclusions (bad bites) may get worse if left untreated.

If treatment is recommended, there are a number of options available today that make it less noticeable than it was in the past. Thanks to today’s technology, the materials we orthodontists use to move teeth can be almost imperceptible.

Recently, the AAO has launched a national campaign, “My Life, My Smile” aimed at promoting orthodontic awareness specifically to prospective adult patients. Look for TV commercials on national networks as well as cable such as HGTV, Style, Discovery Fit and Health, Bravo, TLC, and E! Entertainment Television. Print, radio, and online advertising is also included in the campaign such as More, Fit, and Ready Set, Grow. Online banner ads are appearing on websites such a WebMd, Facebook, and Everyday Health. The purpose of the campaign is to not only target the adults but to maintain outreach to parents of teens as well. Remember, “Your career, your smile”, “Your life, your smile.”