Updated on October 17, 2024
3 min read

Adult Braces: Orthodontic Treatment for Adults

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While braces are often associated with teenagers, modern orthodontics offers various discreet and effective solutions tailored for adults.

Whether you’re dealing with crooked teeth, gaps, or bite issues, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the various types of adult braces available. We’ll also discuss their benefits, drawbacks, and costs and answer common questions about adult orthodontic treatment.

By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision about which braces are right for you.

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Adult Orthodontic Treatment (Braces & Costs)
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What are the Types of Adult Braces?

Various braces are available for adults, but it can be overwhelming to figure out which type is better for you. Each type has its own pros, cons, and costs that you need to consider.

Additionally, you’ll want to use a pair of braces that can correct the specific dental problem you’re facing. Overall, modern orthodontics offers a wide range of choices to suit your unique needs and lifestyle. 

Here are a few 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 — These are attached to the back of your teeth, practically making them invisible. A great option for those who want a discrete pair of braces.
  • Clear aligners — Clear aligners are removable trays that gradually shift your teeth into place. They’re convenient and discrete. 
  • 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.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Type of BracesProsCons
Traditional metal bracesDurable and reliable, effective even for complex cases, budget-friendlyAppearance may not be appealing, uncomfortable, has an adjustment period
Ceramic bracesLooks like natural teeth, as effective as traditional bracesDelicate, prone to staining without proper care
Lingual bracesVery discrete, as effective as traditional bracesCan be more expensive, may affect speech
Clear alignersRemovable and convenient, easy maintenance, very discrete, generally more comfortableCannot be used for complex or severe cases, requires discipline to wear for up to 20 hours
Self-ligating bracesMay shorten treatment time, fewer adjustments are needed, more comfortable than other optionsHigher cost compared to traditional braces

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

Are Braces for Adults Covered by Insurance?

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.

Why Would Adults Need Braces?

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

  • Crooked teeth
  • Crowded teeth
  • Spaces in between the 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 erupted, but the jaw is still growing.

However, there is no age limit for braces. You can straighten your teeth any time 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.

Last updated on October 17, 2024
6 Sources Cited
Last updated on October 17, 2024
All NewMouth content is medically reviewed and fact-checked by a licensed dentist or orthodontist to ensure the information is factual, current, and relevant.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only cite from current scientific research, such as scholarly articles, dentistry textbooks, government agencies, and medical journals. This also includes information provided by the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
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