What Is Adult Orthodontic Treatment?
Adult orthodontic treatment includes braces or clear aligners for patients 18 and older who want to correct tooth alignment, bite issues, or spacing concerns. Whether you missed out on care as a teenager or your teeth have shifted over time, braces for adults are more common than you might think. Think you're too old? You're not. Not even close.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, roughly 1 in 3 orthodontic patients today is an adult (American Association of Orthodontists, 2023 Economics of Orthodontics Survey). At Feldman Orthodontics, our board-certified diplomates of the american board of orthodontics see adults walk through the door every single day ready to invest in their smile.
Why are so many adults choosing orthodontic care now? The reasons vary. Some want to fix crowding or gaps that have bothered them for years. Others need to address bite issues causing jaw discomfort or headaches. Many adults discover that teeth straightened in their teens have gradually shifted back.
The good news? Modern orthodontic technology has changed everything. Brackets are smaller. Aligners are nearly invisible. Today's treatment plans are faster, more comfortable, and far more discreet than the braces you remember from middle school. Custom 3D-printed brackets, digital planning, and clear aligner systems mean you can straighten your teeth without feeling like a teenager all over again. Board-certified orthodontists now offer adults several treatment plans designed around busy schedules, professional settings, and individual goals.
How Adult Braces Work: The Treatment Process
Getting braces as an adult follows a straightforward process. Here's what to expect at Feldman Orthodontics:
- Complimentary consult and planning. Your orthodontist takes digital scans, X-rays, and photos to assess your teeth and bite. This information helps create a custom plan designed specifically for your smile goals.
- Appliance fitting. Once your plan is ready, you'll have your braces bonded to your teeth or receive your first set of clear aligners. Your orthodontist explains how to care for your appliances and what to expect in the coming weeks.
- Regular adjustment visits. You'll return every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. These appointments keep your care on track by gradually guiding your teeth into their new positions.
- Retention phase. After your braces come off or you finish your final aligner tray, you'll wear retainers to keep your teeth in place. This step is crucial for maintaining your results long-term.
Most adult treatments take between 12 and 36 months, depending on the complexity of your case. Simple spacing issues might wrap up in under a year. Every case is different. More involved corrections take longer, and your orthodontist gives you a realistic timeline during your initial complimentary consult.
Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult
Straightening your teeth does more than improve your appearance. The main benefits of adult braces include easier oral hygiene, increased confidence, reduced jaw discomfort, and protection against uneven tooth wear.
Better Oral Health Starts With Alignment
Straighter teeth significantly improve oral health by reducing plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas. Crowded or overlapping teeth trap plaque in tight spaces. When teeth are properly aligned, brushing and flossing become simpler, which cuts your cavity and gum disease risk. Properly aligned teeth also make professional cleanings more effective because your hygienist can reach every surface without fighting through overlapping enamel.
The Confidence Factor
Many adults feel self-conscious about their smile in professional meetings, social gatherings, or photos. A straighter smile often leads to greater confidence in everyday interactions, from job interviews to first dates. It's one of the most common reasons adults at Feldman Orthodontics decide to start care.
Do Braces Help With Jaw Discomfort and Headaches?
Yes, correcting your bite can ease chronic discomfort, TMJ issues, and tension headaches. Misaligned bites put extra stress on your jaw joints and muscles. Patients who've dealt with clicking or soreness for years are often surprised by the relief proper alignment brings.
Does Orthodontic Care Prevent Tooth Wear?
Teeth that don't meet properly wear down unevenly over time. Braces for adults distribute biting forces correctly, preventing chips, cracks, and excessive wear. Adults also typically follow their orthodontist's instructions carefully because they understand the investment they're making and stay committed to getting the best results.
Traditional Braces vs. Clear Aligners vs. LightForce: Which Is Right for You?
Today's adults have more treatment choices than ever. Each option has distinct advantages depending on your lifestyle, budget, and orthodontic needs.
| Feature | Traditional Metal Braces | Clear Aligners | LightForce Custom Brackets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Most noticeable | Nearly invisible | Tooth-colored, low-profile |
| Removability | No | Yes, for eating and cleaning | No |
| Best For | Complex cases, all bite types | Mild to moderate crowding/spacing | Moderate to complex cases |
| Comfort | Short adjustment period | Smooth plastic edges | Custom-fit, less irritation |
| Treatment Precision | Highly effective | Effective for appropriate cases | Printed to fit each tooth exactly |
| Cost | Most affordable | Mid-range | Premium |
Traditional metal braces remain the most versatile choice. They handle complex cases involving severe crowding, significant bite issues, or teeth that need substantial movement. They're also typically the most budget-friendly option for adult braces.
Clear aligners appeal to adults who prioritize discretion. The removable trays are nearly invisible and let you eat whatever you want. They work best for mild to moderate alignment issues.
LightForce custom 3D-printed brackets represent the latest advancement in braces technology. Each bracket is designed and printed specifically for your teeth, offering the precision of traditional braces with improved comfort and aesthetics. Your board-certified orthodontist at Feldman Orthodontics can help you choose the right option based on your specific situation, goals, and budget.
How Much Do Adult Braces Cost? Key Factors That Affect Pricing
Adult braces typically cost between $3,000 and $8,000, depending on the type of appliance, case complexity, and how long you're in care. Your actual investment depends on several factors:
- Type of braces. Traditional braces generally cost less than clear aligners or LightForce brackets.
- Case complexity. Mild spacing corrections cost less than severe crowding or significant bite issues.
- Duration of care. Longer treatments require more appointments and materials.
- Geographic location. Costs vary by region and practice.
Many dental insurance plans now include adult orthodontic benefits. Coverage varies widely, so check with your provider about your specific plan. Even partial coverage can save you hundreds or thousands off your total cost.
Flexible payment plans help make braces for adults accessible. At Feldman Orthodontics, low monthly payment options spread the cost over your time in care, often with little or no interest. A complimentary consult gives you a customized cost estimate based on your actual needs, not just general averages. Our team walks you through every financial detail so there are no surprises.
Are You a Candidate for Adult Braces?
Most adults with healthy teeth and gums qualify for orthodontic care. Age alone doesn't disqualify anyone. Patients in their 50s, 60s, and beyond successfully complete care every day. If your oral health is in good shape and you're motivated to follow through, you're likely a strong candidate.
Common issues adult braces can correct:
- Crowding, where teeth overlap or twist together
- Gaps and spacing between teeth
- Overbite, with upper teeth extending too far over the lower teeth
- Underbite and crossbite
- Open bite, where teeth don't meet when the mouth is closed
What might affect your candidacy?
Active gum disease or significant bone loss may need attention before braces can begin. Your orthodontist works with your general dentist to address these concerns first. Once your oral health is stable, orthodontic care can proceed safely.
For severe skeletal discrepancies where the jaw bones themselves are misaligned, surgical orthodontics combines braces with oral surgery for optimal results. During your evaluation at Feldman Orthodontics, your orthodontist determines whether this approach applies to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces
Am I too old for braces?
No. Healthy adults of any age can benefit from orthodontic care. Your teeth can move at 25, 45, or 65. What matters is the health of your teeth and gums, not your age.
Do adult braces hurt?
Most adults experience mild discomfort after braces are placed and following adjustment appointments. This soreness typically lasts a few days, responds well to over-the-counter relievers, and feels more like pressure than anything sharp. Clear aligners tend to cause less initial discomfort than traditional braces.
How long does adult orthodontic treatment take?
Simple cases involving minor crowding or spacing might finish in under a year. More involved bite corrections can take up to 36 months. Most adults fall somewhere in the 12 to 24 month range, and your orthodontist provides a realistic timeline during your complimentary consult.
Can I get braces if I have crowns or missing teeth?
Yes. Your orthodontist creates a customized plan that accounts for dental work you've already had. Braces can actually help close gaps from missing teeth or create proper spacing for future implants.
Will braces affect my professional appearance?
Today's discreet options make adult braces virtually unnoticeable in professional settings. Clear aligners are nearly invisible during wear. LightForce brackets blend with your natural tooth color. Even traditional braces are smaller than they used to be. Many professionals wear them without colleagues noticing for weeks.