[Orthodontic treatment of adults]

Orthodontic treatment of adults has become an integral part of orthodontic routine. Adults can only be treated with fixed appliances. The amount of force and the resulting moments need careful calculation. The factors listed below distinguish orthodontic treatment of adults from that in juveniles: (1) Preceding periodontal treatment is a sine qua non. It should also accompy orthodontic treatment. (2) A growth effect can no longer be expected. (3) Bite opening can only be achieved by intrusion and torque of incisors. (4) Skeletal disharmonies invariably need surgical correction. (5) Treatment time is considerably longer. (6) Motivation of adult patients is much higher. (7) Therefore, oral hygiene is not a problem. (8) The cosmetic appearance is an important factor, which is best taken care of by ceramic or lingual brackets. (9) Final adjustment of occlusion should be done with gnathologic positioners. (10) Adult treatment should only be done by orthodontists trained and experienced in modern fixed appliance use.