Have you found yourself wondering: "Am I too old for braces?" or "What's different about orthodontic treatment for adults?" Perhaps you've thought, "Would Invisalign work for me?" or "I wish I would have worn my retainers!" Many adults in Lewiston, Idaho, Clarkston, Washington, and the entire Lewiston-Clarkston Valley share these thoughts.
No matter what stage of life you're in, Dr. Brendon Swenson and the team at Swenson Family Orthodontics are dedicated to finding a personalized adult orthodontic solution that perfectly fits your lifestyle and helps you achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you've always wanted. It's never too late to invest in your oral health and confidence!
At our Lewiston office, we offer a range of advanced orthodontic treatments tailored for adults:
Gone are the days of large, conspicuous metal appliances. Modern metal braces are significantly smaller, more comfortable, and streamlined than ever before. Made from high-grade stainless steel, these braces are incredibly durable and remain one of the most effective and versatile options for treating a wide spectrum of orthodontic concerns. They are a reliable choice for achieving excellent results for adult patients seeking braces in Lewiston or Clarkston.
Functioning much like traditional metal braces, clear braces are made from translucent, ceramic materials that blend more seamlessly with your natural tooth color. This makes them a popular cosmetic choice for many adult patients who desire the comprehensive benefits of braces but prefer a less noticeable alternative. If you're looking for a discreet yet highly effective way to straighten your teeth, ceramic braces might be the ideal option for your smile transformation.
Invisalign is an increasingly popular choice, particularly for adults and teens who prefer to avoid traditional braces. This innovative system utilizes a series of custom-made, clear, removable aligner trays that gradually and gently shift your teeth into their desired positions. The key advantage of Invisalign in Lewiston is their removability – you can simply take them out for social occasions, sports activities, or, most importantly, for eating all the foods you love. This also allows for completely normal brushing and flossing, making it easier to maintain excellent oral hygiene throughout your treatment.
Thinking about getting braces or Invisalign as an adult? Here are answers to some common questions we hear at Swenson Family Orthodontics.
A: Absolutely not! Age is generally not a barrier to orthodontic treatment. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you're a candidate for a straighter smile. Many adults in Lewiston and Clarkston are successfully undergoing treatment to improve their oral health and aesthetics.
A: While the fundamental principles are the same, there are a few differences. Adult bones are no longer growing, which means certain jaw discrepancies might require a different approach or may not be correctable with orthodontics alone. Adults may also have pre-existing dental conditions like missing teeth, worn enamel, or gum disease that need to be managed. Dr. Swenson will create a customized plan considering your unique needs.
A: The duration of adult braces or Invisalign treatment varies greatly depending on the complexity of your case. Minor adjustments might take only a few months, while more significant corrections could take 1-3 years. During your initial consultation, Dr. Swenson will provide a personalized estimate.
A: Most adults experience some mild discomfort or soreness, especially after initial placement of braces or new Invisalign aligner sets. This discomfort is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and usually subsides within a few days. Our team is dedicated to making your experience as comfortable as possible.
A: Invisalign technology has advanced significantly. While traditionally used for more minor corrections, it can now treat a wide range of mild to moderately complex orthodontic issues. The best way to determine if Invisalign is right for your specific needs is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brendon Swenson at our Lewiston office.
A: Initially, there might be a slight adjustment period where your speech feels a little different, especially with braces or the initial few Invisalign aligners. However, most patients quickly adapt. With Invisalign, you can remove the aligners for eating and drinking, and for special occasions, minimizing impact on your daily routine.
A: The cost of adult braces or Invisalign varies depending on the complexity and duration of your treatment. During your complimentary consultation at Swenson Family Orthodontics, we will discuss your customized treatment plan and its associated costs transparently. We also work with various insurance plans and offer flexible financing options.
A: Once your braces or Invisalign treatment is complete, retainers are essential to maintain your beautiful new smile. Teeth can shift back to their original positions if retainers are not worn as prescribed. Dr. Swenson will provide specific instructions on retainer wear to ensure your results last a lifetime.