Orthodontic Options for Adults


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Dear Dr. Barakat,

I had braces as a teenager, and now at 43, I have one tooth on the bottom that has moved out of place. Can I get Invisalign to correct just that one tooth, or do I need full orthodontic treatment for the top and bottom?


Dear Concerned Parent,

Many adults who had braces as teenagers face the same issue. Over time, teeth shift if retainers are not worn to keep them in place. Most teenagers think their new smiles will stay perfect forever and start to forget to wear their retainers or get lost as they grow into adults.

The good news is many adults decide to seek orthodontic treatment in their 40s. While your teeth won’t move quite as easily as they did as a teenager, a skilled Orthodontist can make a difference in your smile by using the right approach.

Invisalign clear aligners are a great option for adults seeking treatment because of their near-invisible appearance and the fact they’re removable. Invisalign treatment is typically shorter, making it a top choice for not just adults but also children.

However, there is no “one size fits all” option for adult orthodontic treatment. Finding an experienced Orthodontist (who also an Invisalign provider) for a consultation is the first step in your journey. While there are times that Invisalign can be used to correct just the bottom teeth, it is important to be sure that your top teeth are aligned correctly too. Your teeth may appear to be straight, but there could be alignment issues with your upper jaw that have caused the teeth in your lower jaw to shift out of place.

Visit us for a consultation! We’d love to give you back your dream smile!


Dr. Rana Barakat, a board-certified specialist in Orthodontics, has been proudly serving Northern Virginia for more than 20-years! She has built her practice on a personal touch and excellent treatment.

As a parent, she understands wanting the best for your children by giving them beautiful, confident smiles. She makes it a priority to ensure optimal results, but also believes that each patient’s experience during treatment is just as important as the clinical result. As the 2015-16 President of the Virginia Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Barakat’s dedication and expertise reflect why her peers continue to nominate her as a Top Dentist.

Barakat Orthodontics is located at 45745 Nokes Blvd., Ste. 175, Sterling, VA 20166. Connect by visiting them online, or get social with them on FacebookInstagram, and Twitter. Barakat Orthodontics can also be reached at (703) 433-9330.


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