Adults and Braces

About Adults and Braces

Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. In fact, one in five orthodontic patients are over 21. With the invention of more discreet orthodontic appliances such as clear braces and aligners, adults feel comfortable stepping out in public during all phases of treatment. A new smile can begin today!

Special Considerations for Adults

While adults can experience the same results as children and teens in terms of achieving a beautiful, straight smile, the treatment often takes longer. This is due to several factors. Because the jawbone in an adult is fully formed, it is somewhat less receptive to orthodontic treatment. In addition to that, gum disease, which is generally unique to the adult population, may hinder the progress of orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums are equally important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint (TMJ/TMD) pain.

Prior to Treatment

Before beginning orthodontic treatment, we will check first to see what underlying misalignment issues exist, and we will also check for pre-existing dental problems. We recommend that any oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease be remedied prior to orthodontic treatment.

Types of Braces for Adults

While traditional metal braces are sometimes used for adults, our patients typically choose a more discreet, convenient orthodontic method. Options include clear or tooth-colored ceramic braces, Invisalign® clear aligners, or lingual braces, which are fixed to the inside of teeth and therefore invisible when you smile.

A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s never too late to improve their greatest asset – their smile.