If you’ve thought about straightening your teeth as an adult but talked yourself out of it — too busy, too expensive, too much of a commitment — it might be time to revisit that conversation.
Orthodontic treatment has changed significantly. At Lyons Creek Dental Care in Shoreline, we offer clear aligner options designed specifically with adult patients in mind: shorter timelines, fewer appointments, and results that go beyond cosmetics.
Here’s what to know before you get started.
It’s About Improving Your Smile AND Your Bite Balance
Most people think of orthodontics as a cosmetic decision. And yes, a straighter smile can absolutely change how you feel about the way you look. But at Lyons Creek Dental Care, we approach orthodontics from a broader perspective.
Your bite is dynamically linked to your total body function. The way your teeth come together affects how you chew, how you speak, how you hold tension in your jaw, and even your posture and balance. When your bite is off, it doesn’t stay contained to your mouth. Orthodontics is also a key factor in improving airway performance.
That’s why Dr. Rafoth evaluates both the cosmetic and functional picture before recommending a treatment path. The goal isn’t just a straighter smile; it’s a bite and body relationship that actually works.
And now, we are able to offer an effective smile-whitening gift at no extra cost. You can put the whitening system to use during your clear aligner care. No need to wait to whiten!
Adult Orthodontics Looks Very Different Than It Did for Your Kids
If your frame of reference for braces is what you saw your children go through (or what you experienced yourself decades ago) the current reality might surprise you.
Modern adult orthodontics offers:
- Clear aligners like Invisalign, Spark, and ProMonitoring that are nearly invisible and removable
- Fewer office visits than traditional orthodontic treatment, designed to fit into a busy adult schedule
- Shorter overall treatment timelines compared to conventional orthodontics
- Gentler movement through low-force techniques that prioritize comfort
- Better communication between you and the Lyons Creek Team using app innovations, video mapping and a dedicated, secure portal to prove you are on track with your care.
- The ability to whiten your smile while you straighten your teeth.
You don’t have to take time off work for adjustments every few weeks or navigate metal brackets through client meetings or social events. Short-term orthodontic options are built around the realities of adult life.
What Are Clear Aligners and How Do They Work?
Clear aligners like Invisalign, Spark, and ProMonitoring are custom-made, nearly invisible shells that fit snugly over your teeth and shift them gradually into place using gentle, low-force pressure.
You wear each set of aligners for a designated period, then move to the next set in the series. Because the force is distributed carefully and precisely, many patients find clear aligners significantly more comfortable than traditional braces.
The benefits adults consistently notice most:
- Discretion — Most people won’t notice you’re wearing them at all
- Flexibility — Aligners are removable for eating, drinking, and special occasions
- Convenience — Fewer in-office visits means less disruption to your schedule
- Predictability — Digital treatment planning lets you see the anticipated outcome before you begin
Dr. Rafoth is a trained and certified provider of Invisalign, Spark, and ProMonitoring, meaning you have access to multiple options and an experienced guide to help you choose the right fit for your specific situation.
And for patients who worry about finding a provider they can genuinely trust with something as personal as their smile, that relationship matters just as much as the clinical credentials. One patient shared this after completing her Invisalign treatment with Dr. Rafoth:
“Dr. Chris is a warm, caring and knowledgeable doctor. I’m impressed. The staff are welcoming and very accommodating. Didn’t think I’d find another dentist I could trust and enjoy seeing since my long time family dentist retired. But I did! Lyons Creek is great!”
That kind of trust is something we work to earn with every patient, from the first consultation through the final result.
Common Questions Adults Ask Before Starting
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment? No. Adults of all ages pursue orthodontic treatment successfully. Teeth can be moved at any age as long as your gum and bone health support it. We’ll assess that as part of your consultation.
How long will treatment actually take? Short-term orthodontic options at Lyons Creek are designed to be faster than traditional treatment. Depending on the complexity of your case and the option you choose, timelines can range from a few months to around a year.
I’ve heard there are buttons and brackets that are glued to my teeth. Can those be avoided? In most cases, yes! Innovations in clear aligners have enabled us to design your care with fewer tooth attachments, which increases your comfort and streamlines your process.
What does it cost — and is financing available? Short-term orthodontics is typically less expensive than traditional braces. We also offer CareCredit and in-house financing so cost doesn’t have to be the reason you keep putting it off.
Will it affect my daily life? Less than you’d expect. Clear aligners are removable and nearly invisible. Most patients find they adapt quickly and comfortably.
What happens after treatment? Retention is an important part of any orthodontic outcome. We’ll walk you through what comes next to protect your results long-term.
The First Step Is a Conversation
You don’t need to arrive at your consultation knowing exactly what you want. That’s what the consultation is for. Dr. Rafoth will take a close look at your bite, your smile goals, and your overall oral health and help you understand which options make the most sense for your situation.
If you’ve been thinking about this for a while — or if you’re simply looking for a dental home where you feel genuinely comfortable and cared for — we’d love to meet you.
Call 206-362-5400 or schedule online at Lyons Creek Dental Care in Shoreline. Let’s talk about what’s possible for your smile.
