You Are Not Too Old For Braces

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists cites that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Adults everywhere are taking advantage of the opportunity to receive orthodontic care, and now you can too.

The thought of having braces may be discouraging. However, if you are like many adults, you’ve probably been dealing with crooked teeth, crowding, or a poorly aligned bite for a majority of your life and these problems raise more than cosmetic concerns.

Crowded or overlapping teeth can be difficult to clean, making tooth decay and gum disease more likely. Teeth that don't come together properly when you close your jaws can cause chewing and swallowing problems. Poor tooth alignment can also make it difficult to pronounce certain sounds and can put excessive stress on your jaw muscles, causing facial pain. Straight teeth are healthy teeth, which can help you avoid tooth loss and dentures later in life.

Why Adult Braces Are So Important

1. Straight teeth function better, are easier to clean, and are less likely to get cavities. 
2. Teeth are crowded or spaced apart can cause tooth decay or gum disease. 
3. Improperly aligned teeth and jaws are at higher risk for jaw pain, headaches, and migraines.

As an adult, you might think that your options for having your teeth fixed are limited, but today's orthodontic treatment options offer a variety of braces and appliances that are comfortable, aesthetic, and customized to meet your needs. Depending on your budget and the severity of your orthodontic problem, Dr. Quest and Dr. Johnson will discuss your options to ensure your treatment plan fits your lifestyle.

At Quest Johnson Orthodontics, we recognize that adults and children have different needs and require a different level of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatment and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.

To learn more about the benefits of adult orthodontics please contact our conveniently located office in Mooresville to schedule an appointment.

 

Do You Have Gum Disease?

Quest Johnson Orthodontics

More than 47 percent of adults are living with periodontal or gum disease, which more often than not, goes unnoticed.

At Quest Johnson Orthodontics our goal is to continually raise awareness of the prevalence of gum disease while encouraging patients to take an active role in better oral health through prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Gum disease is something that most people will experience at some point in their lives. But because the symptoms of gum disease are so subtle and painless, most people just shrug it off. If gum disease is left untreated, the consequences could be severe.  Gum disease has been linked to a host of general medical problems, including: heart disease, endocarditis, lung problems, colorectal cancer, diabetes, and kidney, pancreatic and blood cancers in men.

According to the American Association of Periodontology (AAP), you may have gum disease if:

• Your gums are red, swollen, and sore to the touch. 
• Your gums bleed when you eat, brush or floss. 
• You see pus or other signs of infection around the gums and teeth. 
• Your gums look as if they are "pulling away" from the teeth. 
• You frequently have bad breath or notice a bad taste in your mouth. 
• Your teeth are loose or feel as if they are moving away from the other teeth.

A great oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits are the absolute best way to take a preventative measure against gum disease. TheAmerican Dental Association (ADA) site recommends brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush that fits your mouth comfortably, so it reaches every tooth surface adequately. Plaque begins to re-form within 24 hours after brushing and flossing, so daily care is essential. Be sure to floss or water floss every day to ensure your gums are healthy.

With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, you can keep your teeth for a lifetime and avoid many significant health problems.

 

If you have any questions regarding the health of your teeth and gums, please don't hesitate to give Quest Johnson Orthodontics a call.