DENVER, Colorado--Increasing options with orthodontics are providing adults, teens, and children more choices than ever when it comes to straightening teeth.
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Recently, the number of adult women orthodontics patients has exceeded the number of male patients. According to the American Association of Orthodontics, within the past 20 years about 25% of all orthodontic patients have become adults, and women outnumber men by a ratio of about three to one.
As one Cherry Creek, Colo., orthodontist, Dr. Robert Rudman, said, “Braces, no matter which kind the patient chooses, makes influential changes in their life. More and more adults, particularly women, are coming into my office motivated to make the changes they’ve been wanting for a long time. It’s really a pleasure to work with them.”
Many orthodontists, including Dr. Rudman of Cherry Creek Orthodontics, emphasize the importance of consultations to discuss treatment options. Dr. Rudman uses this opportunity to talk with his patients about which type ofbraces to use.
Many factors are discussed, such as the severity of the patient’s bite problems, the amount of time the treatment will take, whether surgery is necessary before the treatment, and how much the treatment will cost. Typically, orthodontic treatments can cost anywhere between $5,000 and $7,000.
“It’s important for patients to take advantage of the consultations to see what sort of treatment options are available.” said Dr. Rudman.
Dr. Rudman’s office in Cherry Creek offers many of the most popular orthodontic options available today. The three main options are metal braces, ceramic braces, andInvisalign.
Metal braces are the least expensive and are often seen on teenagers and kids. Many adults avoid metal braces merely for the reason that they are quite noticeable. Ceramic braces are a close cousin to metal braces. A distinguishing feature of ceramic braces is that they are tooth-colored. These brackets also do not stain, and the O-rings, the small rubber bands, can be white or clear.
Invisalign braces are most popular with adults. Treatment consists of a series of clear plastic aligners that patients wear about 23 hours out of the day. Each aligner is made specifically for the patient, allowing a gradual shift of the teeth to take place.
The number of trays necessary to complete treatment can range from as few as 10 to as many as 40 – depending on the course of treatment. The aligners can be removed at meals and to brush teeth, making daily oral hygiene much easier.
“Orthodontic treatment is a serious commitment,” Dr. Rudman said, “but it is well worth it in the end. Never misjudge the power that a healthy and beautiful smile can have on the world.”
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For more information, go to www.braces.org.
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