Orthodontic treatment for adults has become increasingly common. In the United States and Canada, an estimated one million adults over the age of 18 are undergoing orthodontic treatment. Why do adults need orthodontic treatment? In reality, many adults did not receive orthodontic treatment during their formative years for a variety of reasons. Not only do they have problems with misaligned teeth, which affects their social life and work, but they also have a higher incidence of caries, gum and periodontal diseases; in severe cases, they also have TMJ problems, which are complicated by other symptoms such as headaches, interfering with their physical health and decreasing their quality of life. How does orthodontic treatment for adults differ from orthodontic treatment for children? The principles of orthodontic treatment for adults are the same as those for children. However, due to the difference in age, the developmental period of adults is basically over, and they have missed the optimal treatment period, so the treatment will take longer, and the time to wear a retainer after the treatment is over will also be longer. In addition, the psychological state of adults is different from that of children, and more patients require more discreet orthodontic appliances, more special consultation times, and a higher demand for privacy. So doctors must take these factors into consideration when treating adult patients. How can I tell if I need orthodontic treatment? The easiest and most effective way is to have an examination and evaluation by a specialized orthodontist. Individuals are all different, and the treatment approach taken and the length of treatment required will vary. Orthodontists are specially trained to conduct a thorough and necessary examination of the patient’s condition and will let the patient know the development of the jaws and teeth, the need for orthodontic treatment, the treatment options available, the time required for treatment, the schedule of treatment, the precautions to be taken during the treatment, and the cost of the treatment, among other things. What appliances are available in orthodontic treatment? Brackets are the most commonly used and essential appliances in orthodontic treatment. There are metal and ceramic (clear) brackets; brackets that are placed on the outside of the teeth and those that are placed on the inside of the teeth; and rubber bands that are often replaced, either monochromatic or colored. The patient can have a discussion with the doctor about the appliances to be used. After all, orthodontics is a time-consuming and costly treatment, and you should use reliable quality ones and not focus too much on price at the expense of quality. Good quality appliances can greatly reduce the chances of bracket dislodgement and can shorten the duration of treatment. In recent years, a new type of orthodontic appliances by the patient’s welcome, it is based on the shape of the patient’s teeth, the use of electronic computers to analyze the entire treatment process, made of a series of transparent “dental trays”, under the guidance of the doctor to replace the step-by-step, without the use of brackets. However, the production requirements of this device are quite high and the cost is relatively expensive, so it is still difficult to be widely used in clinical practice. What should I pay attention to after wearing brackets? When you first start wearing braces, you may feel uncomfortable, and you may feel “strange” when you speak or eat. This feeling will go away gradually, and the length of time it lasts will vary from person to person. The biggest problem with braces is keeping your mouth and teeth clean and hygienic. Due to the mouth with brackets, wires and rubber bands and other appliances, brushing should be especially careful and conscientious, it is best to use a special orthodontic toothbrush. In order to prevent caries and gum disease, you should cut down on sugary and carbohydrate foods, rinse your mouth frequently, and have regular oral checkups and dental cleanings. To protect appliances such as brackets, hard and sticky foods should also be avoided as much as possible.