What does “Adult orthodontics” mean?
Adult orthodontic treatment is an orthodontic treatment performed to improve tooth alignment and bite after most growth has completed.
Tooth and gum health matter alongside age
Teeth can be moved even in adults. We check cavities, periodontal disease, and tooth support status and provide necessary treatment first or plan together. Past trauma and existing prosthetics and implants are also reflected in the diagnosis.
How the plan differs from treatment during growth
There is a distinction between approaches that guide jaw relationships in line with growth and treatment in adults. We explain the changes that are possible due to tooth movement and treatments that address large skeletal differences. If necessary, it may be sequenced with other dental treatments or jaw surgery.
Living conditions and maintenance
Select a device based on its visibility, as well as any required movement, cleaning and wearability, and regular visits. A retainer is required even after treatment. Just because you're an adult doesn't mean you're subject to one type of device or the same time period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t I get braces if I’m older?
Age alone does not rule it out. We evaluate the health of your teeth, gums, and bones, necessary movements, and overall condition to determine the possible scope and plan.
Does having an implant prevent orthodontic treatment of my other teeth?
Prosthetic implants do not move with normal orthodontic force like natural teeth. Considering the position, movement of surrounding teeth and prosthetic planning can be reviewed together.
Questions to help you understand adult orthodontics
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Is oral health stable before orthodontic treatment?
Explanation and evidenceMovement is possible in adults, but the condition of teeth and gums and existing treatment are reflected in the diagnosis.
British Orthodontic Society · Adult Treatment and Treatment for Children - A choice suited to your condition
What is the scope of tooth movement and skeletal treatment?
Explanation and evidenceWhen there is a substantial jaw discrepancy, the plan distinguishes changes possible through orthodontic tooth movement from other approaches, including surgery.
British Orthodontic Society · Orthognathic Treatment
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- British Orthodontic Society · Adult Treatment and Treatment for Childrenarchive.bos.org.uk (opens in a new tab)
- British Orthodontic Society · Orthognathic Treatmentbos.org.uk (opens in a new tab)
- American Association of Orthodontists · Glossary of Orthodontic Termsaaoinfo.org (opens in a new tab)
- British Orthodontic Society · Orthodontics for Adultsbos.org.uk (opens in a new tab)
