Braces for adults are more common than many people realize. More adults are choosing orthodontic treatment, and today’s options make it easier to fit treatment into a busy life. Whether you skipped braces as a teen or your smile has shifted over the years, this guide walks you through what you need to know.
What Are Braces for Adults?
Adult braces straighten teeth and correct bite problems in patients whose jaws have finished growing. They address cosmetic concerns and functional ones too, like crowding, spacing and bite issues that can affect chewing and long-term oral health.
At Sunflower Orthodontics, adults can choose between traditional metal braces and Invisalign clear aligners. There’s no upper age limit. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy and you have good bone support, you’re likely a candidate. Dr. Jae Brimhall, our board-certified orthodontist, designs treatment plans that fit real adult lives as part of our approach to orthodontics for all ages.
How Adult Braces Work
Braces apply gentle, steady pressure that gradually moves your teeth into better alignment. The process is straightforward, though it takes some patience.
Treatment starts with a free consultation. Dr. Jae reviews your health history, examines your teeth and bite and builds a plan around your goals. Here’s what to expect once treatment begins.
- Getting started. With braces, brackets are bonded to your teeth and connected by a wire. With Invisalign, you’ll receive a series of custom aligners that you switch out on a set schedule.
- Regular visits. You’ll come in for check-ins so we can adjust your braces or review your aligner progress.
- Active treatment. Adult treatment can take a bit longer than it does for teens, since the jaw has finished growing. You’ll get a personal timeline at your consultation, and our guide to how long braces take covers what affects it.
- Retention. Once your teeth reach their planned positions, retainers help protect your results for the long term.
Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult
The payoff goes well beyond appearance.
- Easier cleaning. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss, which helps lower the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- More comfortable chewing. A better bite spreads the work of chewing more evenly and helps reduce uneven wear on your teeth.
- A discreet path. Invisalign lets many adults straighten their teeth without most people noticing.
- Confidence. A smile you’re proud of shows up in work presentations, family photos and everyday conversations.
Whether you’re 25 or 65, it’s rarely too late to invest in your smile.
Braces or Invisalign? Choosing What Fits Your Life
The right choice depends on your goals, your routine and how complex your case is.
Metal braces are the workhorse of orthodontics. They stay on your teeth and handle even tricky cases, and there’s nothing to remember to put in each day.
Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and removable, so you can take them out to eat or for a special event. They work best for adults who will wear them as directed throughout the day.
Dr. Jae will walk you through both at your consultation and recommend the option that fits your smile best.
Insurance and Financing
Some dental insurance plans include adult orthodontic benefits, so it’s worth checking your policy. Our team will help you understand your benefits and walk you through financing options at your free consultation.
Am I a Candidate for Adult Braces?
Most healthy adults are good candidates. Here’s what Dr. Jae looks for.
- Healthy teeth and gums. Any active gum disease should be treated before orthodontic treatment begins.
- Good bone support. This gets checked during your exam.
- Common concerns. Crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, crossbites and open bites can all be treated in adults.
- Existing dental work. Crowns or bridges may shape your treatment plan but rarely rule you out.
If you’re wondering whether you’re too old for braces, the answer is almost certainly no. The only way to know for sure is an exam.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces
Is it worth getting braces as an adult?
For most people, yes. Straighter teeth are easier to keep clean, a better bite can make chewing more comfortable and a smile you’re happy with tends to show up everywhere. Dr. Jae can help you weigh the benefits for your situation.
How long do braces take for adults?
It varies with your case. Adult treatment can take a bit longer than it does for teens because the jaw has finished growing. Dr. Jae will give you a personal timeline at your consultation.
Do braces hurt more for adults?
Discomfort is usually similar to what teens experience. You may feel some soreness for a few days after your braces go on and after adjustments, but soft foods and over-the-counter relief help, and the tenderness typically fades within about a week.
Which is better for adults, braces or Invisalign?
It depends on your case and your routine. Invisalign is a popular choice for adults who want a discreet option, while metal braces are a reliable fit for more complex cases.
Can you be too old for braces?
No. There’s no upper age limit on orthodontic treatment. As long as your teeth, gums and bone support are healthy, you can straighten your smile at any age.
Does insurance cover adult braces?
Some dental plans include adult orthodontic benefits, but coverage varies. Our team will help you understand your benefits and go over financing options at your free consultation.
Take the First Step
If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth, a free consultation is the easiest way to get clear, honest answers, with no obligation to start.
Our Mansfield office welcomes adults from across the area, including patients from Coppell, Southlake and Grapevine.