At Advanced Dentistry, adult orthodontics do not require braces and wire

By Laura Briedis

Generations ago, braces were used mostly for kids. However, since Invisalign clear aligners hit the market in 1999, more adults are now seeking treatment to straighten their teeth.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, one out of three orthodontic patients is an adult. And at Advanced Dentistry by John Heffernan, that number is even higher, as 90 percent of patients getting orthodontic treatment are adults.

“Many parents of children being treated with Invisalign clear aligners are now opting for treatment themselves,” says Dr. Heffernan. “Once they see how perfect their children’s teeth look, they feel like they, too, could benefit from straighter teeth and a better smile.”

There are many reasons for the growing number of adult patients. Some never had the opportunity to wear braces as kids and now are in the position to do so, while other adults who had braces earlier have relapsed and their teeth have shifted. Plus, with so many people participating in Zoom meetings and seeing themselves all day on the computer screen, they are more motivated now to improve their smile.

“Clear aligners have made it convenient for adults to straighten their teeth, as they are not noticeable and are removable,” says Dr. Heffernan, noting that he predominantly uses Invisalign, but also offers Clear Correct as an option and can make custom trays at a local lab for patients who only need slight movement. “I not only use Invisalign to straighten teeth, but also sometimes to put teeth in the best position before an implant, veneer or crown.”

There is no doubt that seeing is believing when it comes to clear aligners.

“When we consult with patients, we take a 3D digital scan of the teeth with our iTero scanner and in minutes we have a treatment simulation showing how the teeth would look after treatment,” he says.

Working with the Invisalign lab, Dr. Heffernan plans every movement of the teeth when designing a series of aligners. Patients wear these custom-made plastic trays over their teeth and change them weekly, which gently shifts teeth into place. On average, it takes six months to one year to treat mild to moderate cases.

“My patients come in the office every eight to 10 weeks to get new aligner trays,” says Dr. Heffernan. “There also is an app patients can use to send me photos so I can monitor the progress in between office visits.”

“I love making smiles and orthodontics is one way to make someone’s smile stand out and really change the whole face,” he says.

In addition to orthodontics, Advanced Dentistry is a full-service dental practice offering preventive care including cleanings, wisdom teeth extraction, periodontal care and cosmetic dentistry.

Straighter, White Teeth
There never has been a better time to use Invisalign clear aligners to straighten your teeth. Invisalign just announced that it is teaming up with Ultradent to deliver teeth whitening at the same time patients are straightening their teeth.

“Now patients don’t need to wait until after orthodontic treatment to whiten their teeth, as they can conveniently do it at the same time,” says Dr. John Heffernan. “This new Invisalign Professional Whitening System is powered by Opalescence, the No. 1 whitening gel on the market.”

In addition to tooth whitening for orthodontic patients, his Advanced Dentistry is offering all new clients free tooth whitening this month, which includes impressions for a custom tray and one tube of whitening gel.

Advanced Dentistry is located at 1832 Pearl Road in Brunswick. For an appointment, call 330-460-3016 or visit AdvancedDentistryBrunswick.com. Most insurances accepted and membership plans are available for those without dental insurance.