Orthodontic treatment has changed a lot over the years, and if you’re an adult thinking about it now, you’re not the only one. Dr. Damon works with plenty of adults in Sacramento who have decided it’s time to make a change. Some are correcting shifting teeth from years ago. Others never had the chance to get braces as kids. Our team at Szymanowski Orthodontics notices that most people just want to feel better when they smile.
What Makes Adult Treatment Different
Treating adults isn’t the same as treating teens. By now, your jaw is done growing. That means some movements take a little more planning. There might be past dental work to factor in. The cosmetic piece usually matters more, and you may not want metal braces in your professional life.
That’s exactly why more practices, including Szymanowski Orthodontics, offer flexible options designed specifically for adults.
Invisalign Is a Popular Pick for a Reason
Clear aligners have become the go-to for adults, and it makes sense. Invisalign trays are nearly invisible, easy to take out when you need to eat or brush, and don’t involve brackets or wires. You switch to a new set every couple of weeks, and over time, your teeth move into place. There are a few main reasons why it works for so many adults:
- You can still eat what you want (no food restrictions)
- Oral hygiene stays simple
- Most people won’t notice you’re wearing them
- Appointments are usually quick and spaced out
Invisalign isn’t hands-off. You’ll need to wear your trays 20 to 22 hours a day, and if you’re not consistent, it slows things down. For straightforward cases or people who’ve had braces before and just need a tune-up, it’s often a great fit. Dr. Damon will let you know if it’s strong enough for your case or if you need something more advanced.
Clear Braces Keep Things Low-Key
If you like the idea of steady results without the responsibility of removable aligners, clear ceramic braces could be worth considering. They work just like metal braces but use tooth-colored materials that blend in better.
Braces Still Get the Job Done
Metal braces have come a long way. They’re smaller and more comfortable than they used to be, and for adults with more involved bite or alignment issues, they’re still one of the most efficient options.
This is usually the route for people who want a guaranteed result, fast progress, and don’t mind a little extra visibility. Some adults even choose metal braces over aligners just to avoid the hassle of keeping track of trays. It depends on what matters more to you.
It’s Okay To Not Be Sure Which One You Prefer Right Now
No one expects you to figure it out on your own. There’s a reason the first step at Szymanowski Orthodontics is a conversation. Dr. Damon takes the time to learn what you want, what your lifestyle looks like, and what kind of results you’re aiming for.
There’s no pressure to rush into anything. You’ll get a breakdown of your options, including the pros and trade-offs, so you can make a decision that fits your life.
What Else to Keep in Mind
Adult orthodontic treatment isn’t just about how your smile looks (though that’s a big part). Straightening your teeth also makes it easier to clean between them, reduces uneven wear, and can help with jaw alignment. If you’ve been dealing with tension, clenching, or bite discomfort, this could be part of the fix.
It’s also worth starting sooner rather than later. The longer you wait, the more things can shift, and the more complicated treatment can become. Taking care of it now gives you more control and usually less time in treatment overall.
Talk Through Your Options With Our Team
If you’re ready to stop second-guessing and want clear answers about which treatment makes the most sense, Szymanowski Orthodontics in Sacramento can help. Dr. Damon takes the time to explain what each option involves, how long it might take, and what kind of results you can expect. You might be considering Invisalign, clear ceramic braces, or a more traditional option, but no matter what’s on your mind, you’ll get straightforward answers that help you move forward with confidence.
Reach out for a free consultation to see which option may work best for you.
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Dr. Szymanowski