The answer to whether an adult can get braces is a definitive yes. Adult orthodontic treatment is often dual-focused, combining aesthetic goals with the necessity of improving oral health. Straighter teeth facilitate better hygiene, which reduces the risk of long-term issues like gum disease and tooth wear. Correcting a shifting bite or long-standing alignment concerns is driven by a focus on comprehensive dental wellness.
Treatment Options for Adults
Adult patients benefit from a variety of appliances that cater to different needs regarding visibility and case complexity. Traditional metal braces remain highly effective for managing severe misalignment and complex bite issues, utilizing stainless steel brackets and wires. Ceramic braces function identically to metal braces, but the brackets are made from tooth-colored or clear ceramic material, offering a more aesthetically pleasing option.
Lingual braces are a hidden treatment choice, as the brackets are custom-fitted to the back, or lingual side, of the teeth. While virtually unnoticeable from the front, their placement can make them more challenging to install and adjust, often contributing to a higher cost. Clear aligners, made from transparent plastic, are removable and nearly invisible. They are a popular choice for adults seeking maximum discretion, generally best suited for mild to moderate corrections.
Unique Considerations for Adult Orthodontics
The primary difference in adult orthodontics stems from the maturity of the skeletal structure, as adult jawbones are no longer growing. Tooth movement relies on the remodeling of fixed alveolar bone, a process that is slower and requires lighter, more consistent forces than in an adolescent mouth. This fixed structure means that complex jaw discrepancies may require surgical intervention in addition to braces.
Periodontal health is a significant factor, as adults are more likely to have a history of gum recession or disease. Active periodontal disease must be completely treated and stabilized before any tooth movement begins, since inflammation can accelerate bone loss during treatment. Existing dental work, such as crowns, bridges, or missing teeth, also complicates treatment planning. Orthodontic movement may be necessary to correctly position teeth to accommodate future prosthetic replacements, requiring collaboration between the orthodontist and a restorative dentist.
The Journey to a Straighter Smile
The process begins with a comprehensive initial consultation. The orthodontist collects diagnostic records, including digital X-rays, photographs, and three-dimensional scans of the teeth and jaw. This planning stage develops a precise treatment plan outlining the exact movement of each tooth and the estimated timeline for the active phase. Once finalized, the active phase begins with fitting the chosen appliance, whether fixed braces or clear aligners.
During the active phase, patients attend routine adjustment appointments, typically every four to eight weeks. The orthodontist changes wires or provides the next set of aligners to maintain necessary pressure on the teeth. The full duration of the active phase can range from 6 months to over 2 years, depending on case complexity. The final stage is retention, where a custom retainer, either fixed or removable, is worn to stabilize the newly aligned teeth. Lifelong retainer wear, often only at night, is necessary to prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
Financial and Commitment Factors
The cost of adult orthodontic treatment is a variable factor, with national averages typically ranging from $5,100 to over $9,200, depending on the appliance chosen and the complexity of the case. Discreet options like ceramic, lingual braces, and clear aligners often fall on the higher end. Unlike coverage for children, adult dental insurance is often limited, frequently capping lifetime orthodontic benefits between $1,000 and $3,000, or excluding the benefit entirely unless medically necessary.
To make treatment accessible, most orthodontic practices offer in-house, interest-free payment plans that spread the total cost over the expected duration. Third-party financing options and the use of flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) can also help manage the expense. Beyond the financial investment, treatment requires a significant personal commitment to meticulous oral hygiene, regular appointments, and the consistent, long-term use of a retainer.