Adult Braces: Orthodontic Treatment for Adults

As an adult, you may think it’s too late for braces. However, modern orthodontics offers various discreet and effective solutions tailored for adults.

Whether you have gaps, bite issues, or crooked teeth, there is a treatment available. In this article, we’ll discuss the different orthodontic treatment options for adults, their costs, and other common questions.

What are the Types of Adult Braces?

Various braces are available to adults, and each type has its own pros and cons. But it’s important to choose one based on the specific problem you’re facing.

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Modern orthodontics offers a wide range of options to suit your dental needs and lifestyle. Here are some examples:

• Traditional metal braces — The most common type of braces, known for their effectiveness in correcting various dental issues. These are typically budget-friendly.
• Ceramic braces — A discreet option that uses clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend with your natural teeth seamlessly.
• Lingual braces ⁠— They are attached to the back of your teeth, making them practically invisible. They are a great option for those who want a discreet pair of braces.
• Clear aligners — Clear aligners are removable trays that gradually shift your teeth into place. They’re convenient and discreet, but they’re often used for mild to moderate cases. 
• Self-ligating braces — Uses a specialized clip instead of elastic ties to shift teeth into place. They’re often considered more comfortable than other options.

Talk to your dentist to find the right option for you. They can recommend different braces that may be suited to your needs and lifestyle.

What are their Pros and Cons?

How to Choose the Right Option For You?

The easiest way to find the right treatment for you is to talk to an orthodontist. They’ll analyze your teeth, gums, and jaw alignment and recommend options that suit your needs.

The next thing you should consider is the cost and how you can pay for it. You might also want to consider a visually appealing option to help you feel more confident.

Below is a quick-reference table to help you match your priorities with the braces that might work best:

What’s the Cost of Braces?

Braces cost between $2,500 and $8,000. The cost typically depends on the length of treatment, the type of braces, and where you live. 

• Traditional metal braces — $3,000 to $7,000
• Ceramic braces — $4,000 to $8,000
• Lingual braces — $8000 to $13000
• Clear aligners — $3,000 to $7,000
• Self-ligating braces — $4000 to $7500

In most cases, insurance doesn’t cover orthodontic treatment for adults. However, you might be able to reduce the cost with payment plans offered by your orthodontist.

Some plans provide adult orthodontic benefits, which can be applied for braces. Check with your insurance carrier to see which benefits your current plan provides. 

You can also use a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to reduce your overall expenses through tax savings. 

What to Expect When Getting Adult Braces?

During the first visit, your orthodontist will examine your teeth, gums, and bite. They may also use different tools to take an impression of your mouth to create a customized treatment plan.

This plan will involve the type of braces you need, the length of the treatment, and the cost. Once you’ve chosen your braces, the dentist will clean your teeth before placing them.

After the procedure, you’ll need to visit every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. For clear aligners, you’ll need to visit for 6 to 8 weeks. They’ll also give you new trays to gradually shift your teeth.

How Long Does Treatment Last?

Most adult orthodontic treatments last 18 to 36 months. Some mild corrections can be completed in under a year, while more complex issues may extend to three years. 

If you want to speed up the results, you should wear elastics and aligners as directed by your dentist. Maintaining good oral hygiene can also prevent complications that can delay treatment.

Lastly, it’s important to keep in mind that severe cases might take longer to resolve than mild to moderate ones. They might use additional appliances or jaw surgery, which can extend the timeline.

Why Would Adults Need Braces?

Regardless of their age, adults can experience misalignment issues that require braces. Some of these issues include: 

• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Gaps in teeth (diastemas)
• Excessive overbite
• Underbite
• Open bite
• Deep bite
• Facial or jaw irregularities

Is There an Ideal Age for Braces? 

The most common age group receiving orthodontic treatment is between 8 and 20. This is when many permanent teeth erupt, but the jaw is still growing.

However, there is no age limit for braces. You can straighten your teeth anytime as long as you have good oral health. 

The main difference is that there are fewer treatment options for adults. Because adult teeth are fully developed, they aren't ideal candidates for certain orthodontic appliances.