More Adults Are Getting Orthodontic Treatment Than Ever
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, roughly 1 in 4 orthodontic patients today is an adult. The stigma around adult braces has largely faded — and the options available to adults have never been better.
If you missed out on orthodontic treatment as a kid, or if your teeth have shifted over the years, here is what you need to know.
Does Age Affect How Braces Work?
Teeth can be moved at any age. The biology is the same: controlled pressure applied over time causes the bone around your teeth to remodel, allowing them to shift into new positions.
That said, adult treatment can sometimes take a bit longer than adolescent treatment. Adult bone is denser and less actively remodeling than a growing teenager's jaw, so tooth movement tends to be more gradual.
What Are the Options for Adults?
**Invisalign** is the most popular choice among adults for obvious reasons — the aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed for professional events, photos, and meals. Many of our adult patients say their coworkers never knew they were in treatment.
**Clear ceramic braces** are another option. They use tooth-colored brackets that blend with your enamel. You still have a wire, but from a normal conversation distance, ceramic braces are far less noticeable than metal.
**Traditional metal braces** remain the most cost-effective option and work extremely well. Many adults choose them for straightforward cases where efficiency and cost are the priority.
Common Adult Concerns
**"I have some gum recession / crowns / dental work — can I still get braces?"** Possibly yes. Dr. Kamdar will evaluate your overall dental health and coordinate with your dentist if needed. Some existing dental work requires minor modification before treatment; others are completely compatible.
**"I had braces as a teenager but my teeth shifted."** This is more common than you think. Teeth naturally drift over time, especially if retainers were not worn consistently. Retreatment is straightforward in most cases and often takes less time than the original treatment.
**"I am worried about what it will look like at work."** Invisalign aligners are genuinely difficult to detect in normal conversation. We have treated attorneys, teachers, physicians, and executives who went through full treatment without most colleagues realizing it.
The Health Benefits Beyond Aesthetics
Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing your lifetime risk of cavities and gum disease. Correcting a bite problem can relieve jaw pain, reduce headaches, and decrease wear on your enamel. These are real health outcomes — not just cosmetic ones.
Book Your Free Consultation
The conversation is free, there is no obligation, and Dr. Kamdar will give you an honest assessment of what treatment would look like for your specific situation.