Adult Treatment Salem, OR

Orthodontic treatment is not just for teenagers. More adults than ever are choosing to address alignment issues, bite problems, and spacing concerns that affect both their oral health and confidence. At Christensen Orthodontics, we offer orthodontic solutions designed specifically for the needs of adult patients, with treatment options that fit into busy schedules and active lifestyles.

Common Bite Problems

Many adults live with bite problems they have had for years without realizing the impact on their long-term oral health. Overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites can all contribute to uneven tooth wear, jaw discomfort, and difficulty chewing properly. Crowded or misaligned teeth are harder to clean effectively, which raises the risk of tooth decay and gum disease over time. Addressing these issues as an adult is just as effective as treating them earlier in life, and in many cases, it opens the door to other restorative work that was not previously possible.

Pre-Restoration Orthodontics

For adults who need crowns, bridges, dental implants, or veneers, orthodontic treatment is sometimes an important first step. When teeth are misaligned or spaced incorrectly, it can be difficult or even impossible to place restorations in a way that looks natural and functions properly. Moving teeth into the right positions before restoration work begins allows your dentist to achieve results that are more precise, longer-lasting, and better aligned with your bite. This approach is especially common for patients who lost a tooth years ago and have experienced shifting in the surrounding teeth.

Post Orthodontic Care

Once your teeth have been moved into their corrected positions, maintaining those results requires consistent care. This includes keeping up with regular cleanings and exams, brushing and flossing thoroughly around any orthodontic appliances, and following Dr. Christensen‘s guidance on what to eat or avoid during active treatment. Good oral hygiene habits during and after treatment protect the health of your teeth and gums, and help ensure that your investment in orthodontics delivers the lasting results you are looking for.

TMJ

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, connects your jaw to your skull and plays a central role in chewing, speaking, and everyday jaw movement. Adults with misaligned bites often place uneven stress on this joint over time, which can contribute to TMJ disorder symptoms such as jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth comfortably. Orthodontic treatment that corrects the underlying bite problem can reduce strain on the TMJ and, in many cases, provide meaningful relief from these symptoms. If you have been experiencing jaw discomfort, it is worth discussing whether bite alignment may be a contributing factor.

Retainers

After orthodontic treatment is complete, retainers are essential for keeping your teeth in their new positions. Without a retainer, teeth can gradually shift back toward where they started, a process called relapse. Retainers may be removable or fixed depending on your specific situation, and Dr. Christensen and our team will give you clear instructions on when and how long to wear yours. Most adults wear their retainer nightly on an ongoing basis after the initial full-time wearing period. Retainers are a small commitment compared to the work that went into achieving your results, and they are the most reliable way to protect those results over time.

Emergency Orthodontic Care

Orthodontic emergencies do happen. A wire that has shifted and is poking soft tissue, a loose bracket, or a broken appliance can all cause discomfort and, if left unaddressed, may affect the progress of your treatment. If you experience any of these issues, contact Christensen Orthodontics as soon as possible. In the meantime, orthodontic wax can be placed over a poking wire to protect the inside of your cheek, and you should avoid trying to adjust or reattach any components on your own. Prompt attention to orthodontic issues helps keep your treatment on track.

Start Your Orthodontic Consultation in Salem

If you have questions about adult orthodontic treatment or are ready to take the next step, Christensen Orthodontics is here to help. Our team takes the time to understand your goals and explain your options clearly, so you can make an informed decision about your care. Call us at 503-967-9887 to schedule a consultation and find out what orthodontic treatment can do for your smile and your oral health.