Many adults in the Sacramento, CA areas still don’t know that they can straighten crooked and poorly spaced teeth with adult orthodontics. Advances in technology and orthodontic techniques have created new opportunities for adults who may have missed out on much-needed childhood orthodontic care to have beautiful straight smiles, as well as those whose smiles have deteriorated over time. And new materials mean you don’t have to have traditional metal dental braces. You can even straighten your teeth “invisibly.”

Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for kids and teens. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists cites that one in five (over 20 percent!) orthodontic patients is now over the age of 21! Many adults are choosing treatment because they understand the importance of maintaining their oral health, and they want to feel better about their appearance.

Michael H. Payne, DDS, MSD, is an American Board-certified orthodontist, member of The Edward H. Angle Society of Orthodontists, Peninsula Orthodontic Research Group, the American Association of Orthodontists, California Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, California Dental Association and the Sacramento district Dental Society. He has practiced orthodontics exclusively in Sacramento since 1998 and he is an Invisalign certified Preferred Provider. Dr. Payne provides comprehensive orthodontic care to adults.

A bad bite, or malocclusion, may be causing your teeth to fit together incorrectly. Teeth that are crowded or widely spaced or overbite can cause tooth decay or gum disease. Crooked teeth can cause abnormal pain or pressure in the jaw. Many adults simply want a healthier mouth and with the team at American River Orthodontics practicing adult orthodontics it can all be possible.

It’s never too late to have a healthy, beautiful smile you can wear for the rest of your life!

For many adults, the thought of having metal dental braces is enough to discourage them from treatment. Today’s adult orthodontic treatment options, however, offer a variety of solutions that are comfortable, esthetic and customized to meet your needs. They include:

• Clear braces
• Ceramic braces
• Invisalign® clear aligners
• Traditional metal braces