The Difference Between Adult and Kids Orthodontics

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The Difference Between Adult and Kids Orthodontics
Posted on 11/09/2017
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When you’re searching for a Waukegan orthodontist to provide your family with the orthodontic care you need, we give you many great reasons to choose Kattner Orthodontics! We’re proud to provide quality orthodontic treatments to patients of all ages in our family-friendly and comfortable office. We do our best to make sure all our patients, kids and adults alike, enjoy the time they spend with us improving their smiles!


While orthodontic treatment is suitable for patients of all ages, there are a few differences between adult and kids orthodontic treatment.

 

Physical Differences

 

Kids and adults differ physically which affects how orthodontic treatment works. For adults, the jaw has stopped growing and developing. But in kids, we can take advantage of the fact they they are still growing - and we can influence that growth using braces or other appliances for optimal treatment results. If an adult needs changes made to his or her jaw, orthognathic (jaw) surgery might be necessary in conjunction with braces in order to properly align the jaw as well as the teeth.

 

Gum Health Differences

 

Whether you’re a child or an adult, your gums must be healthy before orthodontic treatment can begin with braces or Invisalign aligners. This is because braces and aligners put constant pressure on the teeth to prompt them to move through the gums. While kids generally have healthy gums, many adults have issues with their gums like the early, mid or late stages of periodontal (gum) disease.

 

Psychological Differences

 

Adults do have some advantages when it comes to orthodontic treatment. For one thing, many adults have already undergone some orthodontic therapy which means their treatment can be simpler, quicker, and more comfortable. In addition, adults often achieve excellent, long-term outcomes from their treatment because they tend to be more compliant than kids when it comes to things like oral hygiene and retainer wear. 

Contact Us for Braces & Invisalign in Waukegan

Regardless of your age or your unique orthodontic needs, Dr. Kattner and his expert staff can help you achieve the healthy and beautiful smile you deserve! If you’re ready to set up an orthodontic evaluation for yourself or your child, just give us a call at (847) 244-7900 or request an appointment online. We’re looking forward to welcoming you to Kattner Orthodontics where we specialize in creating amazing smiles!