It is a common belief that orthodontic treatment is exclusively for adolescents, but this is a misconception; age alone does not prohibit tooth movement. Teeth can be safely and effectively moved at any age, meaning that 70 is not too old for braces or aligners. The success of adult orthodontics hinges not on a patient’s chronological age, but on the overall health of the tissues supporting the teeth. As life expectancy increases, more adults are seeking treatment, often for long-term health benefits rather than just aesthetics. Orthodontic care for older adults is a growing and effective field.
Medical Prerequisites for Adult Orthodontics
The primary consideration for a patient in their 70s seeking orthodontics is the condition of the periodontium, which includes the gums and the jawbone supporting the teeth. Healthy supporting structures are necessary because tooth movement is a biological process that relies on the controlled breakdown and rebuilding of bone around the tooth roots. Existing periodontal disease must be fully controlled and stable before any orthodontic force is applied. If active disease is present, the forces used to move teeth could accelerate bone loss and potentially lead to tooth instability or loss.
Systemic health conditions can also influence treatment planning and outcomes. Conditions like diabetes, for example, can impair the body’s healing response, which is a significant factor in bone remodeling and tissue repair during orthodontics. A thorough medical history review is conducted to manage any such conditions in coordination with the patient’s primary care physician. Existing dental work, including crowns, bridges, and implants, also requires careful assessment. While natural teeth can be moved, implants are fixed to the bone and cannot be repositioned, dictating the overall movement plan.
Functional Goals of Treatment
For older adults, the motivations for seeking orthodontic treatment often center on improving oral function rather than purely cosmetic changes, which is a significant difference from adolescent care. One primary goal is the correction of bite issues, or malocclusion, which can improve chewing efficiency and overall comfort during eating. Aligning the teeth can redistribute the forces of biting and chewing, preventing abnormal or excessive wear on tooth surfaces.
Orthodontics frequently serves as an adjunctive treatment, preparing the mouth for future prosthetic work. Moving teeth to create proper spacing can make it easier for a dentist to place well-fitting crowns, bridges, or dental implants. Straightening teeth also simplifies routine oral hygiene, as aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss effectively, reducing the risk of developing cavities and periodontal disease later on. This focus on function and long-term oral health maintains the patient’s natural teeth for as long as possible.
The Procedure and Timeline for Older Patients
The mechanism of tooth movement is the same for a 70-year-old as it is for a teenager, involving the continuous process of bone resorption and formation, but the speed of this process differs with age. Adult bone tissue is denser and the rate of bone turnover is generally slower than in younger patients. This biological reality means that orthodontic treatment for older adults may take longer than the average 18 to 24 months seen in adolescents. The duration is highly dependent on the complexity of the case.
The overall treatment time for an adult can range from 12 to 36 months. The orthodontist applies lighter, more consistent forces to ensure safe movement within the slower biological environment. Patients in this age group often prefer less conspicuous appliance options, such as clear aligners or ceramic braces, which are effective and less noticeable than traditional metal brackets. Clear aligners are particularly popular due to their removability, which simplifies eating and maintaining the high level of oral hygiene necessary during treatment.
Following the active phase of tooth movement, the retention phase is particularly important for older patients. Since teeth naturally tend to shift throughout life, the use of a retainer after treatment is often recommended indefinitely to maintain the corrected position. The choice between a removable or fixed retainer is determined on a case-by-case basis. Lifelong retention is a common and necessary part of the long-term treatment success plan. Regular monitoring and compliance with the retention protocol are necessary for preserving the functional and aesthetic results.