Can adults straighten teeth?

Wondering if adults can straighten teeth effectively at any age? Absolutely – there’s no age limit for orthodontic treatment when teeth and gums are healthy. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, one out of every four patients in orthodontic offices are now over age 21, with more than 1.5 million adults receiving treatment annually. [1] [2]

Adult tooth movement works on the same biological principles as in children and teenagers. The periodontal ligament surrounding tooth roots responds to gentle, consistent pressure by allowing teeth to shift into new positions. While treatment may take slightly longer in adults due to denser bone tissue, the results are equally effective.

Modern orthodontic options specifically cater to adult lifestyles and aesthetic concerns. Clear aligners like Invisalign offer nearly invisible treatment, while ceramic braces blend with natural tooth color. Lingual braces attach to the back of teeth for completely hidden treatment.

Adults often achieve better treatment compliance than younger patients because they’re highly motivated and follow instructions precisely. This dedication frequently leads to excellent results and shorter-than-expected treatment times.

Common adult orthodontic concerns include crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crooked teeth that may have shifted over time. Many adults seek treatment for teeth that moved after previous orthodontic work, especially if retainers weren’t worn consistently.

Treatment duration typically ranges from 12-24 months, with some minor corrections completed in just 6-8 months. Auckland practices report increasing numbers of professional adults choosing clear aligner therapy due to its convenience and discretion.

Adult orthodontics offers benefits beyond aesthetics, including improved oral hygiene, reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease, better chewing function, and decreased jaw joint problems.

Related Questions:

What’s the oldest age someone can get braces or clear aligners? There’s no maximum age limit for orthodontic treatment as long as teeth and gums are healthy.

Do adult teeth move faster or slower than children’s teeth during treatment? Adult teeth typically move slower than children’s teeth due to denser bone tissue and reduced cellular activity.

Is orthodontic treatment more expensive for adults than children? Orthodontic treatment costs are generally the same for adults and children, though adults may need longer treatment times.

Source Links:

[1] Motivation, Perception, and Behavior of the Adult Orthodontic Patient – PMC
[2] Adults are seeking orthodontic treatment in record numbers – Dental Tribune