Straight teeth and a healthy bite are important at any age—but for decades, orthodontics was mostly considered a rite of passage for kids and teens. Today, that mindset has shifted. More adults than ever are choosing to pursue orthodontic treatment, whether they missed out on it growing up or are looking to refine their smile later in life.
Thanks to modern treatment options, flexible scheduling, and improved comfort, orthodontics has become a natural part of adult wellness and self-care. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists reports that nearly 1 in 3 orthodontic patients today are adults—and that number continues to grow.
So what’s behind this trend? And what do adults need to know before starting their orthodontic journey?
The Rise of Adult Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontics used to be something you got “out of the way” as a teen. But life doesn’t always follow that path. Some adults were never offered braces as children, while others experienced relapse (movement of teeth back to their original positions) due to inconsistent retainer use or age-related changes.
Now that more people are embracing lifelong health and self-care, orthodontic treatment is no longer seen as optional or cosmetic—it’s part of feeling and functioning your best.
Common reasons adults start treatment include:
- Shifting teeth — Even if you had braces before, your teeth can still shift over time, especially without long-term retainer use.
- Jaw or bite issues — Malocclusion (bite misalignment) can worsen with age, leading to discomfort, wear, or TMJ-related symptoms.
- Aesthetic confidence — Many adults simply want to feel better about their smile in professional, social, or personal settings.
- Improved oral health — Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other complications.
Orthodontics can do more than improve your appearance—it can protect your health.
Treatment Is More Discreet Than Ever
One of the biggest reasons more adults are embracing orthodontic treatment is that modern options are far less visible and more comfortable than they used to be.
Depending on your needs, you may be eligible for:
Clear Aligners (e.g. Invisalign)
- Virtually invisible when worn
- Removable for meals, brushing, or special events
- Ideal for busy adults with mild to moderate alignment issues
Clear or Ceramic Braces
- Tooth-colored brackets for a lower-profile look
- Fixed to the teeth for reliable, round-the-clock movement
- A great choice for those who want the effectiveness of braces with added discretion
LightForce Braces
- 3D-printed brackets custom-designed for your unique teeth
- More efficient, comfortable treatment plans with fewer in-office adjustments
- A modern take on traditional braces with digital precision
The takeaway? You no longer need to choose between results and comfort—today’s systems are designed with adults in mind.
You’re Not “Too Old” for Braces
A common concern among adult patients is whether they’re simply too old to start treatment. The truth is, healthy teeth can be moved at any age—and there’s no upper limit.
Adult treatment may require different planning than adolescent orthodontics (especially if you’ve had prior dental work), but that doesn’t mean it’s less effective. Your orthodontist can tailor your plan based on your goals, health history, and lifestyle.
In fact, many adults find that they’re even more motivated to follow through with treatment than they might have been in their teens. That commitment pays off—leading to beautiful, lasting results.
How Adult Orthodontics Supports Long-Term Health
While straight teeth are a common motivator for treatment, the benefits go much deeper. Orthodontics supports:
- Jaw alignment and comfort — Fixing bite issues can reduce strain on the jaw and muscles, helping with TMJ symptoms.
- Improved oral hygiene — Crowded or overlapping teeth can trap plaque, making them harder to clean.
- Even wear of teeth — A proper bite ensures your teeth wear down evenly, reducing the risk of chips or cracks.
- Better digestion — Properly aligned teeth improve your ability to chew food efficiently, aiding digestion.
Orthodontics isn’t just about cosmetics—it’s about function, comfort, and lifelong oral health.
What to Expect from the Process
Starting orthodontic treatment as an adult begins with a consultation and a clear discussion of your goals. From there, you can expect:
- Digital scans and imaging to assess your current bite
- A personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs
- Discussion of the best treatment type for your lifestyle (aligners vs. braces)
- Regular check-ins and adjustments throughout your care
Treatment typically takes 12–24 months, depending on the complexity of your case. In some mild cases, it may take as little as 6 months.
Orthodontic visits are usually quick and easy, especially with digital technology that reduces time in the chair and increases efficiency.
Cost and Insurance for Adults
Many dental insurance plans now offer partial coverage for adult orthodontics, and payment plans are widely available. You don’t have to pay everything upfront, and treatment can often be structured to fit comfortably within your budget.
The key is to start with a consultation so you can get a clear idea of the timeline, cost, and coverage based on your individual case.
You Deserve a Smile That Makes You Feel Like You
Orthodontic care is an investment in your future. Whether you want to improve your bite, correct shifting teeth, or simply feel more confident in your smile, there’s never been a better time—or better technology—to get started.
Straightening your teeth isn’t about trying to look younger. It’s about aligning how you feel with how you look, and giving yourself the confidence to smile without hesitation.
Considering Orthodontics as an Adult? TG Orthodontics Is Here to Help
At TG Orthodontics in Marlboro, NJ, we’ve helped countless adult patients discover just how transformative orthodontic care can be—physically, emotionally, and personally. Whether you're interested in braces, Invisalign, or LightForce Braces, our team is here to guide you with expertise, flexibility, and care.
Schedule your complimentary consultation today and take the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile—at any age.