Adult braces

Adult braces treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

Thanks to modern orthodontic advancements, braces for adults are now more comfortable and discreet than ever. However, it’s normal to experience a few changes once your braces are on. Depending on the type of braces you choose, you may notice slight adjustments to your appearance due to the brackets and archwires.

As braces work their magic by applying gentle pressure to move your teeth, some discomfort is to be expected—don’t worry, it’s only temporary! Over-the-counter pain relievers and a menu of soft foods can help you ride out the initial adjustment period with ease. You might also need to apply orthodontic wax to any brackets that rub against the inside of your mouth, keeping sore spots in check as you get used to your new smile journey.

Remember, a little patience and care will pay off with a smile that’s worth showing off for years to come!

Age is just a number when it comes to achieving a great smile! Orthodontic treatment works effectively on healthy teeth, no matter how young or old you are. While the process may take a bit longer for adults due to denser bone tissue, the results are just as rewarding. So, whether you’re 15 or 50, it’s never too late to start your journey to a straighter, healthier smile!

Orthodontic treatments usually include adjustment appointments every four to six weeks. These visits are key to keeping your smile journey on track! During these appointments, we assess your teeth, make any needed adjustments, and monitor the health of your gums and teeth. It’s all about ensuring steady progress and setting you up for the best possible results!

Keeping your smile healthy with braces is all about staying on top of your oral hygiene game! Patients should brush at least three times a day to prevent food particles from sneaking into their braces. The more often you brush, the fresher and cleaner your smile stays. Flossing is equally important—several times a day helps clean those tricky spots between your braces that your toothbrush can’t reach. Consistency is the key to a bright, healthy smile throughout your orthodontic journey!

The first step to discovering if braces are right for you is a personalized consultation. During this visit, our team will carefully examine your teeth, discuss your smile goals, and determine the best treatment plan tailored to your needs. Braces are a versatile solution, effectively addressing many of the same orthodontic concerns in adults as in children and teens. Let’s work together to create a smile you’ll love!

For a broader overview of treatment considerations for adults, see the American Association of Orthodontists’ adult orthodontics guide. Appliance choice and timing depend on individual examination findings.

Braces are a practical orthodontic option for adults who want to improve tooth alignment, bite relationships, or both. Fixed brackets and archwires allow the orthodontist to guide tooth movement without relying on the patient to insert and remove trays each day.

Adult orthodontic planning begins with an examination and appropriate records. Dr. Jeffrey Brumbaugh evaluates tooth position, the bite, gum and bone support, existing restorations, and the patient’s goals before recommending an appliance. Some adults are best served by metal or clear braces, while others may be candidates for Invisalign clear aligners or another approach. Our broader adult orthodontics guide explains how these options compare.

Reasons adults consider braces

  • Crowded, rotated, or widely spaced teeth
  • Overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open-bite relationships
  • Relapse after earlier orthodontic treatment
  • Alignment needed before restorative or other dental care
  • A preference for an appliance that remains in place

After the treatment plan is reviewed, brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected with an archwire. Periodic visits allow the orthodontist to evaluate movement, change wires or auxiliaries when needed, and respond to appliance concerns. Appointment frequency and overall treatment time vary with the complexity of movement, biological response, oral health, and cooperation with instructions.

Daily care matters. Patients should brush carefully around brackets, clean between the teeth, follow food guidance, and use a braces-compatible mouthguard for contact sports. Continue regular preventive visits with your general dentist throughout orthodontic treatment.

Once active treatment is complete, retainers are normally used to support the new tooth positions. The type of retainer and wear schedule are individualized. To discuss fixed braces at either office, review our Orange office, Whittier office, or request an orthodontic evaluation.