Evaluation for Adults
Orthodontic evaluation in adulthood focuses on tooth alignment, bite relationships, and treatment planning within the context of completed facial growth, periodontal health, and existing dental conditions.
The goal is to determine how orthodontic treatment is planned within existing biologic limits and coordinated with other dental care when required.
Treatment Pathways in Adulthood
There are two possible pathways based on clinical findings.
Active orthodontic treatment to align teeth and correct bite relationships within the limits of the supporting bone and periodontal condition.
Monitoring or alternative dental management when orthodontic treatment is not indicated.
When Orthodontic Treatment May Be Recommended
Alignment irregularity. Teeth are not positioned within the arch.
Sagittal discrepancy. The relationship between the upper and lower teeth may present as increased overjet or an underbite.
Vertical discrepancy. The relationship between the upper and lower teeth may present as deep bite or open bite.
Transverse discrepancy. The upper arch may be narrow relative to the lower arch.
Arch space deficiency. Available space is insufficient to accommodate the dentition within the existing arch form.
Arch space loss. Reduction in available arch length may occur following tooth extraction, proximal tooth structure loss from caries or restorations, and age-related changes such as mesial drift and occlusal wear, and may contribute to crowding and occlusal instability.
Tooth wear or occlusal instability. Bite relationships may contribute to uneven tooth wear or functional imbalance.
Pre-restorative or interdisciplinary needs. Tooth position may require correction to support restorative or prosthetic treatment.
Screening Findings
TClenching or grinding may be present and may be associated with dental wear or muscle tenderness and may warrant behavioral guidance.
Mouth breathing or snoring may be present and may warrant airway screening and medical referral.
Jaw or joint-related findings may be identified and may warrant further assessment.
Treatment Considerations
Orthodontic treatment in adults is performed within the limits of the supporting alveolar bone and periodontal health.
Tooth movement is influenced by bone support, root length, and existing restorations.
Orthodontic treatment does not alter skeletal jaw relationships after growth is complete and relies on dental compensation.
In selected cases with significant skeletal discrepancy, orthognathic (jaw) surgery may be considered in conjunction with orthodontic treatment.
Coordination with a general dentist or other dental providers may be required when restorative planning or periodontal considerations influence orthodontic decisions.
Multidisciplinary care may be required to coordinate orthodontic, periodontal, restorative, or surgical treatment.
Follow-up and Monitoring
When treatment is not initiated, monitoring or alternative dental management may be recommended based on clinical findings.
Explore related orthodontic information
Additional information about orthodontic care at different stages of development is available below.