Can adults get braces?

Can adults get braces

Yes—adults can get braces and achieve straighter, healthier bites when gums and bone are healthy enough to support tooth movement. Age alone is rarely a reason to skip orthodontics if your goals and oral health line up.

Adult treatment may differ from teen care because growth is complete, so jaw discrepancies sometimes need different strategies than growth-guided correction in children. Prior dental work—crowns, bridges, implants, or missing teeth—shapes the plan, and active gum disease must be stabilized before braces begin. Adults often choose ceramic braces or other discreet options for work and social life, though metal braces remain highly effective. Treatment can take a similar span to adolescent care or slightly longer depending on biology and case difficulty. Many adults pursue braces for crowding that has worsened over time, bite wear, jaw discomfort related to alignment, or confidence—results can be both functional and cosmetic when retention is taken seriously afterward.

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Key Points

• Healthy gums and supporting bone are key adult candidacy factors.
• Completed jaw growth means some bite issues need tailored adult planning.
• Existing crowns, implants, or missing teeth influence bracket placement and goals.
• Ceramic and metal braces are both common adult choices.
• Retainers after treatment are essential to protect adult results.

What This Means for You

Schedule an orthodontic consult even if you are well past school age—bring questions about timeline, appearance options, and coordination with your general dentist. Treating gum inflammation first and committing to retainers afterward are the practical steps that make adult braces a lasting investment rather than a temporary change.

Related Reading: Metal vs ceramic braces: which is better?  |  How much do braces cost?  |  Do I need a retainer after braces?