Adult Orthodontics

You Are Never Too Old To Have A Beautiful Smile

When people think of braces and orthodontics, they often think of teenagers. Orthodontic care is suitable for people of all ages, from children to adults, and mouthguards are recommended for athletes of all ages to protect their teeth during sports. While the majority of orthodontic patients are adolescents, this does not mean that adults are too old to transform their smiles! Early orthodontic assessment for a child is important, as age-specific dental visits can help identify potential issues before they become more serious. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 1 in 4 orthodontic patients is an adult. Early orthodontic visits for children can help address developing orthodontic issues, such as overcrowding or jaw misalignments, and support healthy dental development. Orthodontics is a specialty within dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and jaw misalignments through appliances like braces and procedures such as jaw surgery. From traditional and clear braces to Invisalign®, Clemente Orthodontics is pleased to offer a variety of orthodontic treatment options for adults.

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Why Should I Get Braces As An Adult?

If you have had crooked teeth your whole life, or you had orthodontic treatment as a teen and your teeth have since shifted, you may wonder why orthodontics is necessary. A straighter smile can not only boost your confidence and self-esteem but can also improve your overall oral health. Adult orthodontic treatment can improve oral health by reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and jaw strain. When you have crooked or misaligned teeth and a misaligned bite, it can be more difficult to chew, speak and properly brush and floss your teeth. Misaligned teeth can also cause uneven enamel wear and increase the risk of decay. Over time, this can lead to uneven wear and tear on the teeth, TMJ disorders, cavities, gum disease and other dental health issues. Difficulty chewing is often related to improper alignment of the upper and lower teeth, but orthodontic treatment can improve chewing by correcting this alignment. By aligning the lower teeth and upper teeth, you can improve both the aesthetics and function of your smile. Orthodontic treatment addresses the relationship between the upper and lower teeth to ensure proper function and prevent malocclusion. Explore more of our service options. Find out more about our team here.

Orthodontic Problems in Adults

Many adults experience orthodontic problems that can impact both their oral health and overall well-being. These issues often stem from genetics, oral habits developed over time, or even tooth loss. Common orthodontic problems in adults include overcrowding, overbite, underbite, and open bite. Left untreated, these conditions can contribute to gum disease, tooth decay, and excessive wear on the teeth, making daily activities like chewing and speaking more difficult.

Adult orthodontic treatment offers effective solutions for these challenges. With the help of orthodontic appliances such as traditional metal braces and clear aligners, adults can achieve straighter teeth and improved jaw alignment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that adults consider orthodontic treatment not only to enhance their smile but also to support better oral health and self-confidence. Whether you are dealing with long-standing orthodontic problems or new concerns, modern orthodontics provides a range of options to help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.

How Does Adult Orthodontics Differ From Teen Orthodontics?

Although there is no age limit on orthodontic treatment for our patients, there are a few key differences between adult orthodontics and teen orthodontics. Teens often have developing jawbones, which can make orthodontic treatment more efficient and adaptable. Specialized orthodontic care is important to address the unique needs of both adults and adolescents, ensuring optimal results for every age group.

Oral hygiene

One benefit of undergoing orthodontic treatment as an adult instead of as a teenager is that adults tend to maintain better oral hygiene. By keeping your smile and your appliances clean during treatment, you can expect better overall results.

Teens make up the majority of orthodontic patients for a reason. At this age, permanent teeth have erupted, but the bone is still soft. This allows for the teeth and jaws to move easier during treatment. In contrast, adults’ bones are denser, which can make orthodontic treatment take slightly longer.

Another difference between adult and teen orthodontic treatment is that adult patients tend to have more dental complications than teens, such as crowns, implants and gum disease. No matter what dental complications you may have, our orthodontists at Clemente Orthodontics will collaborate with your dentist for the best possible treatment outcome.

Treatment Options For Adults

While there are some differences between adult and teen treatment, adults can enjoy many of the same treatment options as adolescents. Clemente Orthodontics is pleased to offer several different treatment options for adults:

Traditional braces

Traditional braces are a tried and true way to straighten your smile. Clemente Orthodontics uses micro-mini brackets, making braces smaller, sleeker and more comfortable than ever before.

Clear braces brackets are tooth-colored rather than stainless steel. This is a great treatment option for adults that want the same teeth-straightening power of braces without drawing too much attention to their appliances.

As the #1 Invisalign® provider in New York and New Jersey, we know a thing or two about Invisalign®! Invisalign® is a very popular option among adults. Aligners are clear, removable and comfortable, allowing adults to straighten their smiles discreetly without having to put their lives on pause.

adult orthodontics

The Adult Orthodontic Treatment Process

The journey to a straighter, healthier smile begins with an initial consultation with an experienced orthodontist. During this first visit, your orthodontist will carefully assess your teeth and jaw alignment, discuss your goals, and explain the available orthodontic treatments. Based on your unique needs, a personalized treatment plan will be developed, which may include orthodontic appliances such as braces, clear aligners, or even lingual braces that are placed behind the teeth for a more discreet look.

Adult orthodontic treatment typically takes two to three years to complete, depending on the complexity of your case. Throughout this period, you’ll attend regular appointments so your orthodontist can monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Modern orthodontics offers a variety of solutions, including removable retainers to help maintain your results after treatment. With the right approach and commitment, adults can achieve excellent outcomes and enjoy the benefits of improved jaw alignment and a confident smile.

Post-Treatment Care and Retention

Completing your orthodontic treatment is a significant achievement, but maintaining your results requires ongoing care. Good oral hygiene is essential to prevent dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Regular brushing and flossing, along with routine dental checkups, will help keep your teeth and gums healthy.

After your orthodontic appliances are removed, your orthodontist will provide you with a custom-made retainer to help keep your teeth in their new positions. Wearing your retainer as directed is crucial to prevent your teeth from shifting back. The Cleveland Clinic emphasizes the importance of consistent retainer use and proper care to ensure your beautiful smile lasts for years to come. By following your orthodontist’s instructions and maintaining excellent oral hygiene, you can protect your investment in your smile and enjoy lasting results.

Starting Your Orthodontic Journey

Embarking on your orthodontic journey as an adult may feel overwhelming, but with the right support, it can be a positive and transformative experience. The first step is to schedule a consultation with a qualified orthodontist, who will evaluate your teeth and jaw alignment and discuss the best orthodontic treatment options for your needs. Many adults are concerned about the appearance or cost of treatment, but modern orthodontics offers a variety of discreet and affordable solutions, including clear aligners and traditional metal braces.

The Association of Orthodontists recommends choosing an orthodontist who is a member of their organization to ensure you receive exceptional care and the latest in orthodontic technology. If you’re in the Upper West Side or Upper West areas, you’ll find experienced orthodontists who can create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals. Don’t let hesitation hold you back—take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Orthodontics

At Clemente Orthodontics, we’ve seen a significant increase in adults seeking orthodontic treatment. Our adult orthodontics options are tailored to accommodate adult lifestyles and concerns. Here are answers to common questions about orthodontic treatment for adults.

Is it too late for me to get braces as an adult?

It’s never too late to improve your smile and oral health! Many of our patients are adults of all ages, from their 20s to their 70s. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age, and advancements in orthodontic technology have made treatment more comfortable and efficient than ever before. As the saying goes, the best time to start was yesterday, but the second best time is today.

What treatment options are available for adults?

We offer several discreet treatment options popular with our adult patients, including clear braces (ceramic braces that blend with your teeth) and Invisalign® (clear removable aligners). As the number one Invisalign® provider in New York and New Jersey, we have extensive experience creating successful treatment plans for adults with varied orthodontic needs.

How long does adult orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment time varies based on individual needs and the complexity of your case. On average, most adult orthodontic treatments take 18-24 months to complete. Some minor corrections can be accomplished in as little as 6 months. During your complimentary consultation, we’ll provide a personalized estimate of your treatment timeline.

Will orthodontic treatment affect my professional appearance?

Many adults choose Invisalign® or clear braces specifically because they’re concerned about their professional appearance during treatment. Invisalign® aligners are virtually invisible, and clear braces are much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Many of our adult patients report that colleagues didn’t even notice they were undergoing orthodontic treatment until they mentioned it.

Is adult orthodontic treatment more difficult or take longer than treatment for teens?

Adult treatment can sometimes take slightly longer than treatment for teens because adult bones are no longer growing and certain corrections may be more complex. However, adults often follow their treatment instructions more consistently, which can help keep treatment on schedule. Each case is unique, and our experienced orthodontists customize treatment plans for optimal results regardless of age.

Can orthodontic treatment help with my TMJ pain or headaches?

Yes, orthodontic treatment may help alleviate symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders by improving bite alignment. When teeth and jaws are properly aligned, it can reduce stress on the jaw joints and muscles, potentially decreasing pain and headaches. Our team offers comprehensive solutions for patients with TMJ disorders and can recommend appropriate treatment options during your consultation.

Can I get orthodontic treatment if I have missing teeth or dental work?

Yes, orthodontic treatment is possible even if you have missing teeth, crowns, bridges, or implants. In fact, orthodontic treatment can often improve the overall restoration of your smile by creating proper spacing for replacements or implants. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your specific situation and coordinate with your general dentist or other specialists if needed.

How much does adult orthodontic treatment cost?

The cost of treatment depends on your specific needs and chosen treatment method. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed estimate tailored to your individual treatment plan. We offer flexible payment options to make orthodontic treatment affordable, and many insurance plans provide at least partial coverage for adult orthodontics.

Will my insurance cover adult orthodontic treatment?

Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for adults, though coverage varies by plan. Our team can help verify your insurance coverage before treatment begins and will work with you to maximize your benefits. Even with partial coverage, our flexible payment options can make the remaining cost manageable.

How do I maintain my orthodontic results after treatment?

After completing your orthodontic treatment, you’ll need to wear retainers to maintain your new smile. Initially, retainers are typically worn full-time, gradually transitioning to nighttime wear only. Many adults also choose permanent retainers (small wires bonded behind the front teeth) for added convenience and peace of mind.

Ready to begin your journey to a more confident smile? Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation. Our offices in Ridgewood, Woodcliff Lake, and New City are equipped to provide exceptional orthodontic care for adults of all ages.