Yes, many adults do need orthodontic treatment. With one-in-three orthodontic patients over the age of 18, the number of adults seeing an orthodontist is at an all-time high. Adults seek orthodontic care for both health and appearance reasons. Crooked teeth can cause gum disease, jaw pain, and make cleaning your teeth harder.
This guide will help you understand when adults need braces or clear aligners, what treatment options work best, and how to make orthodontic care affordable.
Who Needs Adult Orthodontic Treatment?
Common Signs You Might Need Braces
Many adults live with dental problems that orthodontic treatment can fix. Here are the most common signs:
Crowded or Crooked Teeth: Almost half of the UK’s adult population have crowded teeth, while others have gaps between teeth, or teeth that stick out. Crowded teeth are hard to clean properly, which leads to cavities and gum disease.
Bite Problems: Problems with how your top and bottom teeth fit together can cause pain and tooth damage. Common bite issues include:
- Overbite (top teeth stick out too far)
- Underbite (bottom teeth stick out past top teeth)
- Crossbite (some teeth bite in the wrong direction)
- Open bite (front teeth don’t touch when you bite down)
Jaw Pain and Headaches: TMJ disorders affect many people, causing symptoms like jaw pain and headaches. Misaligned teeth often cause jaw problems because your muscles work extra hard to make your teeth fit together.
Difficulty Cleaning Teeth: When teeth overlap or crowd together, your toothbrush and floss can’t reach all areas. This makes plaque build up faster.
Health Problems Caused by Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth aren’t just about looks. They can cause serious health problems:
Gum Disease: Misaligned teeth create tight spaces that are challenging to clean effectively. This fosters the accumulation of plaque and tartar, leading to gum inflammation and disease. When you can’t clean between your teeth well, bacteria grow and attack your gums.
Tooth Decay: Plaque that stays on teeth produces acid that eats away at tooth enamel. Crooked teeth trap food and plaque in spots your toothbrush can’t reach.
Uneven Tooth Wear: Misaligned teeth can cause uneven enamel wear, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease. Some teeth work harder than others, wearing down faster.
Jaw Problems: A major cause of TMJ disorder is teeth grinding which puts immense pressure on the joint which can aggravate an already inflamed joint. Bad bites make you grind or clench your teeth, especially at night.
Benefits of Adult Orthodontic Treatment
Improved Oral Health
Straight teeth are much easier to keep clean. Straightening your teeth eliminates hard-to-reach areas, making it easier to brush and floss effectively. When teeth are properly aligned, plaque and bacteria have fewer places to hide.
Better Gum Health: When teeth line up properly, your gums can fit snugly around each tooth. This prevents deep pockets where harmful bacteria grow.
Less Risk of Cavities: Straight teeth have fewer spots where food gets stuck. Your toothbrush and floss can reach all surfaces better.
Even Pressure on Teeth: By improving the way your upper and lower teeth meet, you can reduce your risk for a host of oral health issues, including cavities, gum disease and excessive wear (erosion).
Pain Relief and Better Function
Many adults don’t realize their headaches or jaw pain comes from dental problems. Adult orthodontics can be crucial in treating TMJ disorders caused by misaligned teeth and bite patterns. By correcting these issues, orthodontic treatment can improve jaw function and alleviate symptoms such as pain and discomfort.
Reduced Headaches: When your bite is wrong, the muscles in your face and neck work too hard. This tension causes headaches that orthodontic treatment can fix.
Better Chewing: Properly aligned teeth make it easier to bite and chew food. This helps with digestion too.
Less Jaw Pain: By moving your teeth into ideal position and correcting the occlusion so the teeth bite together properly, we can enable your jaw to be seated properly in the joint and function normally during chewing activities.
Confidence and Appearance
The most commonly selected motivating factor was to ‘improve the appearance of my teeth’ (82%) among adults seeking orthodontic treatment. A straight smile makes you feel more confident in work and social situations.
Professional Benefits: Seventy-five percent of adults surveyed reported improvements in career or personal relationships, which they attributed to their improved post-orthodontic smile.
Social Confidence: When you’re not worried about hiding your teeth, you smile more. This makes you appear friendlier and more approachable.
Adult Orthodontic Treatment Options
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces work well for adults with complex bite problems. They use brackets and wires to move teeth into the right position.
Best For: Severe crowding, major bite problems, or complex tooth movements Treatment Time: Usually 18-30 months Pros: Most effective for difficult cases, typically cost less than other options Cons: Very visible, require careful cleaning around brackets
Clear Braces (Ceramic)
Clear braces work like metal braces but use tooth-colored brackets that blend in better with your teeth.
Best For: Adults who want effective treatment but prefer a less visible option Treatment Time: Similar to metal braces Pros: Less noticeable than metal braces, just as effective Cons: Cost more than metal braces, may stain if not cleaned well
Clear Aligners (Like Invisalign)
Invisalign aligners have emerged as a popular choice for adult orthodontic treatment due to their clear, removable, and convenient design. These plastic trays are nearly invisible and removable.
Best For: Mild to moderate crowding, spacing issues, adults with busy lifestyles Treatment Time: 12-24 months on average Pros: Nearly invisible, removable for eating and cleaning, comfortable Cons: Must wear 20-22 hours daily, may not work for complex cases
Lingual Braces
These braces attach to the back of your teeth, making them completely invisible from the front.
Best For: Adults who need effective treatment but want it completely hidden Treatment Time: Often longer than regular braces Pros: Completely invisible, very effective Cons: More expensive, harder to clean, may affect speech initially
Is It Too Late for Adult Orthodontic Treatment?
Regardless of your age, you are never too old for orthodontic treatment. Age is rarely a deciding factor for orthodontic treatment. Many people worry they’re too old for braces, but this isn’t true.
How Adult Treatment Differs from Teen Treatment
Treatment Takes Longer: Orthodontic treatment for adults can begin at any age. Treatment will not begin unless you have a good standard of oral hygiene, as orthodontic treatment can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum problems. Adult bones are harder, so teeth move more slowly.
More Complex Cases: Adults often have dental work like fillings, crowns, or missing teeth. Adults are more likely to have missing teeth, dental crowns, and fillings. Likewise, they may also have teeth in their smile that are vulnerable to cracking or chipping.
Better Motivation: Adults have enough life experience to understand the benefits of orthodontic treatment and are overall more motivated because they’re willingly paying for their own care.
Age-Related Considerations
Good Oral Health Required: Your gums and teeth must be healthy before starting treatment. If you have gum disease or lots of cavities, these need treatment first.
Bone Density: As we age, our bones become denser. This means teeth move more slowly, but they still move.
Jaw Growth: Adult jaws have stopped growing, so some problems that require jaw growth changes may need surgery instead of just braces.
Statistics: How Many Adults Get Orthodontic Treatment?
The numbers show that adult orthodontic treatment is becoming very common:
- About one in three current orthodontic patients is over 18, the highest proportion on record
- Over three quarters (76%) of orthodontists in a new survey report an increase in adult patients seeking orthodontic treatment within the past three years
- The majority of adult patients (83%) are in the 26 to 55 age bracket
Why More Adults Are Getting Treatment:
- The rise of online working/socialising and video calls is having an impact with over half of orthodontists (65%) saying this is a factor for seeking treatment
- Better treatment options that are less visible
- Increased awareness of health benefits
- More flexible payment options
Cost and Insurance Information
Average Treatment Costs
Adult orthodontic treatment costs vary widely based on your location and the complexity of your case:
- Metal Braces: $3,000-$7,000
- Clear Braces: $4,000-$8,000
- Clear Aligners: $3,000-$8,000
- Lingual Braces: $8,000-$10,000
Insurance Coverage for Adults
Adult orthodontic coverage is less common and typically less generous than coverage for children. Many basic dental plans exclude adult orthodontic benefits entirely, focusing coverage only on dependents under 19.
What to Expect from Insurance:
- Most dental plans cover orthodontic treatment at around 50% of the total cost, up to your lifetime maximum benefit
- Adult lifetime maximums are typically $1,000-$2,000
- Many plans only cover children under 18 or 19
Making Treatment Affordable
Payment Plans: Most orthodontists offer monthly payment plans that spread the cost over your treatment time.
HSA and FSA Accounts: You may be able to use tax-free dollars from your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to help cover some of the treatment costs.
Supplemental Insurance: Some companies offer orthodontic-specific insurance that can help with costs.
When to See an Orthodontist
Warning Signs That Need Attention
You should consider seeing an orthodontist if you have:
- Teeth that are crowded, crooked, or have gaps
- Difficulty biting or chewing food properly
- Frequent jaw pain or headaches
- Problems cleaning your teeth thoroughly
- Grinding or clenching your teeth at night
- A history of gum disease despite good oral care
What Happens at Your First Visit
During your consultation, the orthodontist will:
- Examine Your Teeth and Bite: They’ll look for problems with alignment and how your teeth fit together
- Take X-rays: These show the roots of your teeth and jaw bone structure
- Discuss Your Goals: They’ll ask what bothers you most about your teeth
- Explain Treatment Options: Based on your specific needs, they’ll recommend the best treatment
- Review Costs and Timeline: You’ll get clear information about what to expect
Questions to Ask Your Orthodontist
- What treatment do you recommend for my specific case?
- How long will treatment take?
- What are all the costs involved?
- What payment options do you offer?
- How often will I need appointments?
- What happens if I have problems during treatment?
Living with Adult Orthodontic Treatment
Daily Life with Braces or Aligners
Eating: With braces, avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage brackets. With aligners, remove them before eating anything except water.
Cleaning: Oral hygiene instructions should be given before the start of orthodontic treatment and it should be reinforced during every visit. Spend extra time cleaning around brackets or clean aligners as directed.
Work and Social Life: “Orthodontic treatment is very do-able and manageable,” Glenn says. “Our patients are finding that orthodontic treatment can complement their lifestyles, and is compatible with their professional needs and their social lives”.
Managing Discomfort
Initial Soreness: New braces or aligners may cause mild discomfort for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers help.
Adjustments: Your teeth may feel sore after adjustment appointments. This usually lasts 1-2 days.
Emergency Care: Know how to handle loose brackets or lost aligners. Your orthodontist will give you instructions.
Special Considerations for Adults
Gum Disease and Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment requires healthy mouths to be effective. Gum disease doesn’t rule out the ability to receive orthodontic treatment, but it must be treated and under control before beginning treatment.
If you have gum disease, you’ll need to:
- Get periodontal treatment first
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene during orthodontics
- Have more frequent dental cleanings
- Work with both a periodontist and orthodontist
Missing Teeth and Dental Work
Adults often have:
- Crowns or large fillings that affect treatment planning
- Missing teeth that need replacement after orthodontics
- Root canals or other dental work
Your orthodontist will work with your general dentist to create a complete treatment plan.
Pregnancy and Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is generally safe during pregnancy, but timing matters:
- X-rays should be limited during pregnancy
- Morning sickness can make oral hygiene more challenging
- Hormonal changes may affect your gums
- Discuss timing with both your orthodontist and doctor
Airway and Breathing Benefits
Modern orthodontics looks at more than just straight teeth. The way you breathe creates the foundation of a balanced face and better health.
Sleep and Breathing: Proper jaw alignment can improve your airway and reduce snoring or sleep problems.
Facial Support: Well-aligned teeth provide better support for your lips and facial muscles.
TMJ Relief: Orthodontics aren’t just for straighter, prettier smiles – treatment can also help to relieve pain associated with TMJ disorders.
Choosing the Right Orthodontist
What to Look For
Experience with Adults: Make sure the orthodontist regularly treats adult patients and understands their unique needs.
Technology: Modern orthodontics uses digital scanning, 3D imaging, and computer planning for better results.
Treatment Options: Look for an orthodontist who offers multiple treatment types so you can choose what works best for your lifestyle.
Clear Communication: Your orthodontist should explain your options clearly and answer all your questions.
Red Flags to Avoid
- Pressure to start treatment immediately without proper evaluation
- Promises that seem too good to be true
- Unwillingness to work with your other dental providers
- No clear treatment plan or cost breakdown
- Poor reviews from other adult patients
Success Stories: Real Adult Treatment Results
Many adults are surprised by how much orthodontic treatment improves their lives. Citing their newfound self-confidence, 92% of survey respondents said they would recommend orthodontic treatment to other adults.
Common Benefits Adults Report:
- Less jaw pain and fewer headaches
- Easier dental cleanings
- More confidence at work and socially
- Better ability to chew food
- Reduced teeth grinding at night
- Improved sleep quality
Timeline Expectations: On average, men’s treatment lasts 19.09 months, while women’s treatment averages 18.22 months. Your specific timeline depends on your case complexity and treatment choice.
Maintaining Your Results
Retainers Are Essential
If you don’t clean thoroughly around your orthodontic appliances, you also have a greater risk of cavities. Be sure to follow your orthodontist’s oral hygiene recommendations. After active treatment ends, you must wear retainers to keep your teeth in their new positions.
Types of Retainers:
- Removable clear retainers (like thin aligners)
- Removable wire retainers
- Fixed retainers bonded behind teeth
Retainer Schedule: Most people need to wear retainers every night for life. Your orthodontist will give you specific instructions.
Long-term Oral Health
Straight teeth are easier to keep healthy, but you still need to:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss every day (it’s much easier with straight teeth!)
- Get regular dental cleanings and checkups
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
Final Thoughts
Yes, many adults do need orthodontic treatment. Whether it’s for health reasons like gum disease prevention and jaw pain relief, or to boost your confidence with a straighter smile, adult orthodontics can dramatically improve your quality of life.
Whether you’re 8 or 80, the physiological process that moves teeth through bone remains the same. Teeth move in response to forces being placed on them over time, regardless of how old you are.
The key is working with an experienced orthodontist who understands adult needs and offers treatment options that fit your lifestyle and budget. With today’s advanced techniques and discreet options like clear aligners, there’s never been a better time to get the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.
Ready to explore your options? Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific needs and learn which treatment approach will work best for you.