Orthodontic treatment is a highly effective and increasingly common path for adults seeking to improve their smile and overall dental health. For individuals aged 35 and older, the answer to whether they can get braces is a definite yes. Advancements in dental technology have made the treatment process more comfortable, predictable, and significantly more discreet than in previous decades. This progress has made orthodontic care a viable option for those who missed treatment in their youth or experienced dental shifts later in life.
Feasibility of Adult Orthodontics
Age alone does not pose a barrier to the biological process of moving teeth. The fundamental mechanics of tooth movement, which involves reshaping the bone surrounding the teeth, remain possible throughout life. Approximately one in four orthodontic patients today are adults. Adults most often seek treatment to correct crowding, address bite discrepancies (malocclusion) that cause pain or wear, or prepare their mouths for restorative work like implants.
The success of adult orthodontics hinges not on age, but on the overall health of the supporting structures. A comprehensive initial consultation with an orthodontist is necessary to confirm candidacy. This examination involves evaluating the health of the gums and jawbone, as these tissues must be stable and healthy before any tooth movement can begin. Once the foundation is sound, the orthodontist develops a personalized plan that addresses both aesthetic goals and functional requirements.
Modern Treatment Options
Aesthetic concerns voiced by adults have driven the development of highly discreet treatment solutions. While traditional metal braces remain an effective option, especially for complex movements, adults frequently select options that blend more seamlessly with their natural appearance.
Ceramic braces offer a less conspicuous alternative to metal, utilizing clear or tooth-colored brackets. These devices function similarly to traditional braces, employing wires and brackets to guide teeth into position, but are visually subtle. For those desiring complete invisibility, lingual braces are placed on the tongue-side (lingual surface) of the teeth. Since they are customized to fit the back of each tooth, they are completely hidden from view.
Clear aligner therapy, such as Invisalign, represents a major advancement due to its removable and virtually invisible nature. This system uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic trays worn for most of the day and night, gradually shifting the teeth. The removability of aligners allows for easier oral hygiene maintenance and temporary removal for eating or special occasions. This variety of modern options ensures that adults can find a treatment that aligns with their lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.
Unique Physiological Considerations for Adult Patients
Orthodontic treatment for adults differs from that of adolescents primarily due to mature physiology and a pre-existing dental history. The jawbone of a 35-year-old is fully developed and denser. This denser bone means that tooth movement generally occurs at a slower rate compared to a teenager’s actively growing bone. Consequently, adult treatment timelines are often longer, typically ranging from 18 months to three years, depending on the complexity of the case.
The presence of stable periodontal health is paramount for adult patients undergoing tooth movement. Adults have a higher prevalence of gum recession or bone loss, which can complicate treatment. Orthodontists must carefully monitor gum health throughout the process to ensure controlled movement does not compromise the supporting tissues. In some cases, the orthodontist may coordinate with a periodontist to stabilize the gums before active treatment begins.
Adult patients often present with existing dental restorations, which must be factored into the treatment plan. Crowns, bridges, large fillings, or dental implants introduce unique considerations. Orthodontic appliances cannot be bonded directly to certain materials or move teeth that are fused to the bone, such as implants. The treatment plan may require interdisciplinary collaboration with a general dentist or prosthodontist to adjust or replace existing dental work after the teeth have been repositioned.
Long-Term Retention and Maintenance
The completion of active tooth movement marks a transition to the equally important phase of retention. This stage is necessary because the tissues and bone surrounding the newly positioned teeth require time to stabilize in their new configuration. Adult teeth possess a strong tendency to shift back, a phenomenon known as relapse. Therefore, a commitment to long-term retention is a non-negotiable aspect of adult orthodontic care.
Retainers are custom-made devices designed to hold the teeth in their corrected positions. They come in two primary forms: fixed and removable. Fixed retainers are thin wires bonded semi-permanently to the back surfaces of the front teeth, providing continuous stabilization. Removable retainers, which may be clear plastic trays or a Hawley-style device, are typically worn full-time initially and then transition to nightly wear indefinitely. Most orthodontists advise a commitment to lifetime retention, recognizing that minor shifting naturally occurs throughout life.