shirley adult orthodontics

We offer pediatric dental care and orthodontics for kids, but that doesn’t mean we can’t help your entire family! With our cosmetic braces and Invisalign® aligners, we can help adults correct malocclusion and enjoy more even smiles. In today’s blog, your Shirley, NY, pediatric dentist and orthodontist offers care for grownups too.

Treating Misalignment

Many adults assume that if they didn’t receive orthodontic care in childhood or their teens, it is too late for treatment. But it’s never too late to obtain an even and attractive smile! Remember, in addition to improving overall esthetics, treating misalignment could also limit the risk of serious complications, such as cavities, infections, gingivitis, gum disease, TMJ disorder, and bruxism (teeth grinding). We will start with an initial consultation, in which we talk about your smile and also take time to thoroughly examine it with digital imaging technology. This helps us plan treatment and find the best option to correct your uneven smile.

Braces with Ceramic Brackets

Often, braces are the most effective option to correct major misalignment. Unfortunately, few adults are excited by the prospect of wearing metal braces. Which is why to make them less visible, we use tooth-colored brackets made from ceramic for our adult patients. These brackets will be crafted based on highly detailed iTero® images we take of your smile, and the material is shaded to blend with the teeth seamlessly. This same material is used to create crowns and prosthetics due to its lifelike appearance.

We attach the brackets to the front-facing side of each tooth. We then connect a portion of an arch wire to each one with a band. During regular visits to the office, we will adjust the tension in the arch wire to begin repositioning the teeth gently and gradually, so you can obtain an even smile in as little as two years.

Invisalign® Aligners

For a completely clear option, we can correct uneven smiles with a series of clear, plastic aligners. The Invisalign® system offers the most cosmetic option for addressing malocclusion, and the aligners are also removable, so you avoid complications with mealtime or when brushing and flossing your teeth. Optimal results can also be possible in as little as one year.

Retainers

If you’re worn braces in the past and your teeth have shifted, or if you have very minimal misalignment, we could help correct the smile with retainers. We have some that are clear, and others made with wire. They can be removable or fixed in place!

Visit Your Shirley, NY, Orthodontist and Pediatric Dentist

Our team is ready to help adults enjoy better oral health and more attractive smiles with orthodontic treatment. To learn more about our treatment options for adults with misalignment, then contact Shirley Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry in Shirley, NY, by calling (631) 399-1600.