In generations past, traditional orthodontics used wire braces to put constant pressure on the teeth in order to slowly shift them through bone and move them into a desirable position. Braces are typically used during youth or adolescence, as the maxilla (jaw bone) has yet to fully form and it is easier to shift root structures into place. In adults, the jaw bone has fully developed into a rigid, dense structure that makes it far more difficult to shift teeth. This typically mandates a lengthier treatment, and can increase the likelihood of gum recession, bone deterioration, and soft tissue disease. Thankfully, cutting-edge orthodontic treatments such as Invisalign have been developed to make the alignment process faster, more precise, and more discreet than ever – even for adult patients.

As one of the leading orthodontists in Tukwila, WA, Dr. Timmerman and the team at South Seattle Smiles can quickly and precisely shift the gums by removing a minor amount of bone from beneath the teeth. This procedure temporarily reduces the jaw bone’s mineral content, and allows teeth to quickly and easily move into position in far less time and with significantly greater accuracy. Furthermore, once the bone has healed, it becomes even stronger and more durable than it was before; thereby locking teeth into place and permanently aligning them without the need for months or years of uncomfortable, unsightly braces.