A beautiful smile has no age limit. At Morristown Orthodontics, we see patients of all ages seeking orthodontic treatment, and adults make up a growing portion of our practice. Many adults believe orthodontic treatment is exclusively for teenagers, but the truth is that your smile can be transformed at any stage of life.
Why Adults Are Choosing Orthodontic Treatment
Adults choose orthodontic treatment for various reasons. Some never had the opportunity for braces as children, while others experienced shifting after previous treatment. Many simply want to boost their confidence with a straighter smile.
Beyond aesthetics, orthodontic treatment offers significant health benefits. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, straightening teeth can also help prevent abnormal wear of tooth surfaces and reduce stress on supporting bone and jaw joints.
Adult Treatment Options at Morristown Orthodontics
At our practice, we offer several treatment options specifically suited for adult patients:
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign has revolutionized adult orthodontics. These clear, removable aligners gradually shift your teeth into position without the visibility of traditional braces. They’re particularly popular among professionals who want a discreet treatment option.
Invisalign aligners are removable for eating and cleaning, making them convenient for adults with busy lifestyles. Most patients find them comfortable and appreciate the ability to maintain their normal diet. For more detailed information, visit our Invisalign vs Traditional Braces article.
Ceramic Braces
For cases that require more traditional treatment approaches, ceramic braces offer an excellent compromise. These work like metal braces but feature clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend with your natural tooth color, making them less noticeable.
Ceramic braces can be more effective than clear aligners for certain complex tooth movements while still providing a more subtle appearance than metal braces.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are placed behind the teeth, making them completely hidden from view. This option appeals to adults who want effective treatment with maximum discretion. While slightly more expensive and requiring some adjustment in speaking patterns initially, many patients find the invisibility factor worth these considerations.
What to Expect: The Adult Treatment Experience
Adult orthodontic treatment differs from adolescent treatment in several ways:
Treatment Duration: Adult treatment may take slightly longer since adult bones are no longer growing. However, most adults complete treatment within 18-24 months, with some Invisalign cases finishing even sooner.
Comfort and Adjustment: As noted by the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, adults typically experience initial discomfort similar to younger patients but adapt quickly to their appliances.
Existing Dental Work: Our orthodontists have extensive experience working around crowns, bridges, and dental implants. During your initial consultation, we’ll create a customized plan that accounts for your existing dental work.
Life During Treatment
Many adults worry about how orthodontic treatment will affect their daily lives. The good news is that modern orthodontic options are designed with adult lifestyles in mind.
Professional Settings: Clear aligners and ceramic braces allow you to maintain your professional appearance during treatment. Many patients report that colleagues don’t even notice their orthodontic appliances.
Dietary Adjustments: With Invisalign, there are no food restrictions since you remove the aligners when eating. Traditional braces require avoiding certain sticky or hard foods, but most adults adjust quickly to these minor changes.
Oral Hygiene: Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Our team will provide specific instructions for your treatment type. For helpful tips after your treatment is complete, check out our article on Maintaining Your Smile After Treatment.
Success Stories
Jane, a 42-year-old teacher from Morristown, completed Invisalign treatment last year: “I always thought I’d missed my chance for a straight smile. The treatment fit seamlessly into my busy schedule, and now I smile with complete confidence in front of my classroom.”
Michael, a 35-year-old financial advisor, chose ceramic braces: “As someone who meets with clients daily, I was concerned about my appearance during treatment. The ceramic braces were hardly noticeable, and the results have been tremendous both for my confidence and oral health.”
Getting Started
The first step in your adult orthodontic journey is a consultation at our Morristown office. During this visit, we’ll:
- Perform a thorough examination of your teeth and jaw
- Discuss your goals and concerns
- Take digital images and impressions as needed
- Present treatment options suited to your specific case
- Review financial considerations and insurance coverage
Many dental insurance plans now include orthodontic benefits for adults. Our office staff will help you understand your coverage and discuss payment options to make treatment affordable.
It’s Never Too Late for a Beautiful Smile
Age should never stand in the way of achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. With modern treatment options and our experienced team at Morristown Orthodontics, adult orthodontic treatment can be comfortable, convenient, and life-changing.
To schedule your consultation, contact Morristown Orthodontics at (973) 538-2171 or visit our Contact Us page. Located at 161 Washington St, Morristown, NJ 07960, we’re ready to partner with you on your journey to a healthier, more confident smile.
Key Takeaway
Orthodontic treatment is not just for teenagers—adults of all ages can achieve a straighter, healthier smile with options like Invisalign, ceramic braces, or lingual braces that fit their lifestyle and appearance preferences.
