Braces for adults? You may have worn braces as a kid, but now your teeth have shifted. Getting braces again can help. You might think braces are only for kids with crooked teeth, but let us ask you — why shouldn’t you have the smile you’ve always wanted?
Today’s technology makes it easier than ever for adults to get braces or pursue retreatment. You can even straighten your teeth without braces using clear aligners like Invisalign.
Adult orthodontics are about more than just aesthetics. A healthy smile can improve your confidence, support better speech and breathing, and even benefit digestion and nutrition.
At Petrous Orthodontics, we understand that many adults feel self-conscious about wearing braces again. But modern orthodontics is nothing like the "mouthful of metal" you might remember. Let us show you the health benefits of improving your smile.
It’s common for teeth to shift after braces. Even patients who wear their retainers nightly may notice small changes over time. That’s because your jaw continues to change as you age, which can affect tooth position.
Orthodontic treatment for adults — including braces and Invisalign — works similarly to treatment for kids. However, adult treatment may take slightly longer because the jawbone has fully developed and is no longer as flexible as it is during childhood.
Teeth can also shift due to everyday habits and wear, including:
These factors can weaken support structures and affect alignment, which is why adult braces or Invisalign may be recommended.
Adults often have questions before starting orthodontic treatment, such as:
The answer to all three is yes. It’s perfectly safe to pursue orthodontic care again or for the first time as an adult. In fact, more than 25% of orthodontic patients today are adults.
Here are six health-related reasons to consider straightening your teeth as an adult:
Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss, which makes them easier to keep clean. This can reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Your teeth are meant to fit together in a specific way. Misaligned teeth can cause uneven pressure during chewing, which wears down enamel and can lead to chips, cracks, or breaks.
When your bite is off, it can strain the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), potentially leading to TMJ disorder. Straightening your teeth can reduce stress on the jaw and help prevent or ease TMJ symptoms.
When your teeth don’t align properly, it can make chewing less effective. This may lead to problems like gas, acid reflux, nausea, or poor nutrient absorption because your digestive system has to work harder.
Tongue placement affects both speech and airflow. Misaligned teeth can interfere with this, leading to speech issues or breathing problems like snoring or sleep apnea.
Your smile is often the first thing people notice. A straight, healthy smile can improve your self-confidence and support your mental and emotional well-being.
Orthodontic treatment for adults is more flexible than ever. Even metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than they used to be.
At Petrous Orthodontics, we offer several treatment options for adult orthodontic care or retreatment:
Traditional metal braces remain one of the most effective ways to align teeth. Our modern metal brackets are 30% smaller than older versions and work more efficiently.
Clear ceramic braces are a great option for adults who want the reliability of braces without the appearance of metal. These brackets are made to match the color of your teeth, making them much less noticeable.
Invisalign is one of the most popular orthodontic options for adults. These clear, removable aligners gently guide teeth into position. They are custom-molded, nearly invisible, and easy to integrate into daily life.
If you’re considering adult braces or Invisalign, you probably have a few questions. Here are some of the most common ones:
Yes. Many adults who had braces as teens are great candidates for Invisalign. We’ll evaluate your teeth to see if aligners will work well for your needs.
Because adult jawbones are fully developed, treatment may take a little longer than it does for kids or teens. On average:
- Braces are worn for 1 to 3 years
- Invisalign treatment typically takes 12 to 18 months
Cost depends on the severity of your dental issues and the treatment needed to achieve your goals. At Petrous Orthodontics, braces and Invisalign are similarly priced. The type of treatment you choose shouldn’t significantly affect the total cost.
Some dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for adults. Check with your insurance carrier to confirm your coverage. We accept major dental insurance plans and also take HSA and FSA payments. We offer flexible down payments, monthly plans, and extended payment options to make treatment accessible.
Yes, lifelong retainer use is recommended to maintain your results. Fortunately, after the initial retention phase, most patients only need to wear their retainer at night. Wearing your retainer while you sleep is usually enough to keep your smile stable.
A straight smile isn’t just about looks. It supports better health and greater confidence at any age. Whether you’ve never had braces or you’re thinking about retreatment, adult orthodontics can help you reach your goals. At Petrous Orthodontics, we provide expert care and modern treatment options for adult patients in Royal Oak, MI. Schedule your consultation today to learn more about Invisalign and braces for adults, and find the right treatment plan for your goals.
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