If you think braces are just for teenagers, think again. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult. Whether it’s to correct a long-standing bite issue or simply to achieve the confidence that comes with a straighter smile, adults are seeking treatment in record numbers.
However, pursuing orthodontic treatment as an adult involves different considerations than it does for children. This is where clinical guidelines come into play. The AAO sets rigorous standards to ensure that patients receive safe, effective, and ethical care.
At Dischinger Orthodontics in Lake Oswego, we don’t just straighten teeth; we adhere to these high standards to ensure your health is prioritized every step of the way. Understanding these guidelines can help you make an informed decision about your dental future.
Key Takeaways
- Standard of Care: The AAO provides specific guidelines to ensure comprehensive exams and customized treatment planning.
- Diagnostic Importance: Proper X-rays, photos, and dental history are non-negotiable for safe treatment.
- Customized Solutions: Treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all; options like Damon Braces and Spark Aligners offer flexibility.
- Retention: The active phase of moving teeth is only half the battle; retention is critical for long-term success.
What are the AAO Guidelines?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is the leading body for orthodontists in the United States. They provide Clinical Practice Guidelines for Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. These guidelines are not merely suggestions; they are evidence-based recommendations designed to assist practitioners in making decisions about appropriate health care for specific clinical circumstances.
The primary purpose of these guidelines is to protect the patient. They ensure that every orthodontist conducts a thorough analysis of the patient’s oral health before moving a single tooth. This prevents complications and ensures that the results are not just aesthetically pleasing but also functionally sound.
Detailed Discussion of AAO Guidelines
A compliant orthodontic journey involves several distinct phases, each governed by specific professional standards.
Comprehensive Orthodontic Exam
The guidelines mandate that treatment must begin with a comprehensive examination. This goes beyond a quick look at your teeth.
It involves a detailed review of your medical and dental history to identify any underlying conditions—such as gum disease or bone loss—that could affect orthodontic movement.
Diagnostic Records
You cannot build a house without a blueprint, and you cannot straighten teeth without diagnostic records. The AAO recommends a complete set of records, which typically includes:
- X-rays (Radiographs): To view the roots of the teeth and the jawbone.
- Photographs: Facial and intraoral photos to analyze facial symmetry and tooth alignment.
- Dental Impressions or Scans: To create an exact model of the teeth.
At Dischinger Orthodontics, we utilize state-of-the-art technology like the i-CAT FLX 3D cone beam X-ray. This allows us to see airway obstructions and bone structure in three dimensions, exceeding the baseline standard for diagnostics.
Treatment Planning
Based on the records, the orthodontist must develop a customized treatment plan. This plan addresses the patient’s specific malocclusion (bad bite), aesthetic goals, and functional needs. The AAO emphasizes that the patient must be informed of the diagnosis, the proposed treatment, the alternatives, and the potential risks.
Types of Orthodontic Treatments
The guidelines cover various appliances used to move teeth. While traditional methods exist, modern orthodontics offers advanced options:
- Damon System Braces: Unlike older “metal braces” that require elastic ties, the Damon System uses self-ligating brackets. These reduce friction, allowing for lighter forces and often shorter treatment times.
- Spark Clear Aligners: For those seeking a more discreet option, Spark Aligners offer a clear, removable alternative to brackets. They are designed for efficient tooth movement and superior clarity compared to other brands.
Oral Hygiene and Maintenance
Orthodontic appliances can trap food and plaque. The guidelines stress the importance of maintaining excellent oral hygiene during treatment to prevent decalcification (white spots) and periodontal disease.
The Retention Phase
Moving teeth is the active phase; keeping them there is the retention phase. The AAO guidelines highlight that retention is lifelong. Without retainers, teeth have a natural tendency to shift back to their original positions.
How Dischinger Orthodontics Aligns with AAO Guidelines
Compliance with industry standards is the baseline, but at Dischinger Orthodontics, we aim to exceed them. Dr. Bill Dischinger and Dr. Jeff Sessions are deeply committed to the principles set forth by the AAO.
Advanced Diagnostics
Dr. Dischinger uses 3D X-ray imaging for every patient to evaluate not just teeth, but the airway.
This aligns with the AAO’s focus on comprehensive health, ensuring that orthodontic treatment supports overall well-being, including respiratory health.
Evidence-Based Treatment
Dr. Jeff Sessions, who earned his Master of Science in Dentistry with a thesis on growth and development, integrates academic rigor into clinical practice. His approach ensures that every treatment plan is backed by scientific principles of dentofacial orthopedics.
By keeping the practice progressive with research and technology—such as 3D printing for an impressionless experience—the team adheres to the AAO’s encouragement of continuing education and technological advancement.
Customized Care
We reject the “one-size-fits-all” mentality. Whether recommending the Damon System to reduce office visits or Spark Aligners for aesthetic needs, our treatment plans are tailored to the individual’s biological and lifestyle requirements.
Benefits of Choosing an AAO-Aligned Orthodontist
Choosing a provider who strictly follows these guidelines offers tangible benefits:
- Enhanced Safety: Thorough diagnostics reduce the risk of root resorption or gum damage during treatment.
- Better Outcomes: A customized plan based on precise records leads to a more stable, functional, and attractive smile.
- Transparency: Following the guidelines ensures you are fully informed about costs, treatment duration, and maintenance requirements upfront.
- Ethical Care: You can trust that the treatment recommendations are made in your best health interest, not just for cosmetic quick fixes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there an age limit for orthodontic treatment?
A: There is no defined age limit for getting orthodontic treatment. While many associate braces with teenagers, healthy teeth can be moved at any age. As long as your gums and bone structure are healthy, you are a candidate for treatment.
Q: How much does a consultation cost?
A: At Dischinger Orthodontics, the consultation is completely FREE. This includes the examination, all necessary photos and X-rays (orthodontic records), and a discussion with our treatment coordinators and orthodontists.
Q: Do I need a referral from my dentist?
A: No, you do not need a referral from a general dentist to see us. You can schedule a consultation directly to find out your options or get a second opinion.
Q: How long will treatment take?
A: Treatment times vary depending on the complexity of your case. However, with cutting-edge technology like the Damon System and Spark Aligners, many of our patients see average treatment times of 18-24 months, often with fewer appointments than traditional methods.
Prioritize Your Health and Smile
Your smile is an investment, and like any investment, it requires a trusted partner. The AAO guidelines exist to ensure that your orthodontic care is safe, effective, and built to last. By choosing a practice that embodies these standards, you are choosing peace of mind.
Dischinger Orthodontics is dedicated to providing individualized, guideline-compliant care to the Lake Oswego community. If you are ready to explore what adult orthodontics can do for you, we invite you to take the next step.
Schedule your free consultation today and experience the difference of trusted, expert care.
Author Bio
Dr. Jeff Sessions
Dr. Jeff Sessions is a board-certified orthodontist at Dischinger Orthodontics in Lake Oswego, OR. A native Oregonian, he has been practicing for over 30 years, focusing on progressive research and technology in orthodontic care. He is an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association.
Learn more about Dr. Sessions on WebMD.
