Yes, adults can still get very effective results from orthodontic treatment, because teeth can be moved safely at any age. Adult treatment can straighten crowded teeth, close gaps and improve the bite just as it does for teenagers, although it can sometimes take a little longer.
At Bass Orthodontics, we treat patients from 18 to 80 years old, and adults now make up a large part of the people we see.
Yes, teeth can still move in adulthood, because the bone around them keeps remodelling throughout life.
When gentle pressure is applied to a tooth, the bone on one side breaks down slightly and new bone forms on the other. This process is the same at 15 as it is at 50. The main difference is that adult bone remodels a little more slowly, so movements can take longer.
Orthodontic treatment is highly effective for adults, especially for crowding, gaps and many common bite problems.
Because adults have finished growing, the orthodontist cannot use growth to change the shape of the jaws. However, most adult concerns are caused by the position of the teeth rather than the jaws, and these respond very well to braces or aligners.
Adult orthodontic treatment is more popular than ever. In the UK, a British Orthodontic Society survey found that 80% of orthodontists were seeing an increase in private adult patients, and according to the American Association of Orthodontists, one in three orthodontic patients is now an adult.
Many adults missed out on treatment as children, while others have seen their teeth move over time and want to correct them.
Adults can choose from several discreet treatment options, including clear aligners and tooth-coloured braces.
At our practice, the main options are:
Your orthodontist will recommend the option that best suits your teeth, your bite and your lifestyle.
Orthodontic treatment can take slightly longer for adults, because adult bone responds more slowly than a teenager's.
Many adult aligner treatments at our practice take around 12 to 18 months. Simple cases can be quicker, while complex bite corrections can take longer. Wearing aligners as directed and attending every review appointment helps keep treatment on track.
There are some limits to what adults can achieve with orthodontics, mainly when a problem is caused by the jaw bones rather than the teeth.
Large differences in jaw size or position may need orthodontics combined with jaw surgery. Gum disease, bone loss, crowns, implants or missing teeth can also affect what is possible, so your gums need to be healthy before treatment starts.
We can work with your dentist where other treatment is needed. If you have a bite problem, our occlusion specialists in Harley Street can assess how your teeth and jaws work together.
Adults can get the best results from orthodontic treatment by keeping their gums healthy, following instructions closely and wearing retainers for the long term.
Good habits include:
No, there is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment, as long as your teeth and gums are healthy enough.
It is a common myth that adults cannot straighten their teeth. Find out more about adult orthodontic treatment at our Harley Street practice, or book a free e-consultation from home.
For more information, call 020 7580 8780 or email us at reception@bassorthodontics.com
