Adults with braces used to be rare, but according to the American Association of Orthodontists, today approximately 1 in 3 orthodontic patients are over the age of 18. Even so, most people still associate braces with kids and teens. Adults who are unhappy with their smiles or have functional problems that interfere with chewing, sleeping, and dental hygiene, often don’t know they are good candidates for treatment. Fortunately, adult braces and other orthodontic treatments are a great option at any age! Keep reading to find out why.

Who is a candidate for adult braces and other orthodontic treatment?

The short answer is, almost anyone! Our member orthodontists commonly see patients well into their 60s and 70s, and a few have reported working with patients in their 80s. If you have good dental hygiene habits and healthy gums, then odds are high that you can have successful orthodontic treatment.

If you have any of the following issues, orthodontic treatment could help:

• Crossbite – Also known as a “deep bite,” this is when the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth while the mouth is closed.
• Open bite – Characterized by a gap between the upper and lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. 
• Overbite – When the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, or the upper back teeth bite completely outside the lower teeth. 
• Underbite – When the lower jaw juts out so that the lower front teeth are in front of the upper front teeth.
• Overcrowding – When the jaw doesn’t have enough space to accommodate all of the teeth. Overcrowding leads to overlapping, crooked, and misaligned teeth.
• Jaw pain – Wisdom teeth that erupt in adulthood can cause crowding and misalignment, leading to stress and tension on the jaw joints that can cause significant pain and discomfort.
• Tooth wear or decay – Misaligned teeth and jaws can cause a “bad bite,” where teeth don’t come together properly. That causes wear and tear or even chipped teeth. They are also more difficult to keep clean, leading to decay and gum disease.

Can I get braces if I have gum disease?

In the long-term, braces and other orthodontic treatment can help prevent gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. That’s because gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) as a result of poor brushing and flossing habits. 

Well-aligned teeth are much easier to keep clean with brushing and flossing. Straight teeth also ensure that the gums fit snugly around each tooth, providing protection from bacteria. 

That being said, if you’re already suffering from gum disease, you’ll need to get it under control before starting treatment. Normally your dentist can treat gum disease, but they may refer you to a periodontist (gum specialist) if your case is more severe.  

Orthodontic treatment on someone with gum disease could lead to tooth loss, which is why orthodontists always do a thorough examination of every new patient. 

An in-person exam by your TAO orthodontist is an important first step in your orthodontic treatment.  It allows the orthodontist to thoroughly evaluate your gums and teeth to ensure that your smile is a healthy one. Attempting to move your teeth if you have underlying oral health problems could have long-term consequences for your smile.

What treatment options are available for adults?

Thanks to the ever-evolvolving technology of orthodontics, there are lots of options available for adults. After examining you, your orthodontist will talk with you to make a personalized treatment plan that addresses your issues and fits your lifestyle. Here are some of the options you can discuss with your orthodontist:

• Traditional metal braces – this is what most people picture when they hear the word “braces.” Metal brackets are glued to each tooth and connected by a wire. The orthodontist changes and tightens the wire over time to slowly move your teeth into the proper position.

• Clear aligners – clear plastic trays that are formed to fit your teeth. Over the course of treatment your orthodontist will provide you with progressively changing trays that use pressure to move your teeth. 

• Lingual braces – Similar to traditional braces in function, the difference is that lingual braces are placed on the back of your teeth, or the lingual (tongue) side. This is a good option for someone who wants a more discreet look. 

• Ceramic braces – These work the same way as metal braces but the brackets are made with ceramic so they blend in naturally with the color of your teeth. 

• Braces with 3D printed brackets – This brand-new technology allows orthodontists to order brackets that are customized to fit the surface of each of your individual teeth, which may shorten treatment time.

• Orthodontic surgery – Certain skeletal problems that are interfering with a patient’s ability to bite, chew, and breathe properly may need to be treated with surgery, followed by braces or aligner treatment. 

Do adult braces hurt more or take longer?

Braces and other orthodontic treatment for adults may take a little longer than for young patients, but not always. That’s because it’s easier to move bones that are still developing. 

On the other hand, one thing that slows down treatment is poor compliance, which is more common in children. Adult patients tend to be better about wearing their aligners for the proper amount of time, and using their elastics as instructed, and maintaining proper oral hygiene during treatment. All in all, age is not a significant factor in length of treatment. 

Adults can expect to be in treatment for approximately 2 to 3 years, though this varies widely depending on the severity of the problem.

In general, braces never cause more than minor discomfort for patients. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax are usually enough to alleviate your symptoms. 

How can I find an orthodontist who treats adults?

Nearly all orthodontists treat adults, unless their practice is exclusively pediatric. Remember that orthodontists are the experts when it comes to jaw and tooth alignment. Orthodontists are dentists with an extra 3-4 years of training in their speciality.

While some dentists now offer clear aligner treatment, we always recommend you visit a qualified orthodontist for a successful, safe treatment. 

That’s why we provide an online, searchable directory of orthodontists who are members of the Texas Association of Orthodontists. Just visit the directory and search your area to find a highly-qualified, professional orthodontist near you.