Many older adults live with unsightly or uncomfortable dental misalignments such as overbites, crossbites, underbites, and open bites that can lead to a host of issues such as neck pain, headaches, and stress to the jaw. Thankfully, SureSmile can be an excellent orthodontic solution for adults of any age. Here’s a quick overview of how SureSmile works and what older patients can expect during treatment.
How Does SureSmile Work?
SureSmile is a modern orthodontic alternative to traditional metal braces that realigns teeth discreetly and comfortably using a series of customized clear aligners. After you are approved for the treatment, your dentist will create a 3-D digital map of your mouth, and this data will be used to craft a customized sequence of aligners designed to fit snugly over your teeth. Each aligner in the sequence will exert the consistent force necessary to gradually shift your teeth into healthier positions.
You’ll need to wear your aligners for at least twenty hours each day and thoroughly clean them and your teeth each time before you put them back in your mouth. Your aligners should be worn for about two weeks before switching to the next set, and each pair will pick up the treatment where the last one left off. At the end of the process, you will have a beautifully realigned smile.
Can Older Patients Receive SureSmile?
Older patients can be excellent candidates for SureSmile, but treating them requires several special considerations. A few of these include:
- Older people are at higher risk of oral infections such as tooth decay and gum disease, and these issues will have to be cleared up before the process can begin.
- Many seniors deal with conditions such as arthritis that can make normal oral hygiene difficult, so they may benefit from using tools such as electric toothbrushes or water flossers.
- The oral structures of older adults are more solidified than those of younger people, which means that their SureSmile treatments may take longer. SureSmile can take anywhere from several months to more than a year depending on the severity of your misalignment.
SureSmile can be an excellent solution for those who have never had orthodontic treatments before as well as those whose teeth have drifted out of alignment since they wore braces. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best orthodontic solution for you.
About the Practice
Juno Beach Smiles offers the most outstanding oral healthcare in town. Led by Drs. Greg Riley and Duane Keuning, the staff ensures that each patient receives sincere compassion, remarkable courtesy, and old-fashioned customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as SureSmile services. To schedule your SureSmile consultation, contact the office online or dial (561) 622-7243.