Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
Orthodontic treatment is not just for adolescents. More adults than ever are pursuing alignment correction to improve their oral health, enhance their appearance, and address long-standing concerns they may have lived with for years. Whether motivated by cosmetic goals, functional issues such as bite problems and jaw discomfort, or the desire to simplify oral hygiene by eliminating crowding, adult orthodontics offers effective solutions at any age.
Adult Orthodontics: Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | Every 4 to 10 weeks |
| Time needed | Usually 6 to 24 months |
| Anesthesia | None |
| Recovery time | Tenderness for a few days |
| How long it lasts | Permanent with retainers |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
Why Adults Choose Orthodontic Treatment
The practice offers a full range of orthodontic systems suitable for adults, including Invisalign, clear aligners, ceramic braces, and lingual braces, all of which offer varying degrees of discretion during treatment. For adults looking to minimize treatment time, accelerated orthodontics can reduce the overall duration without compromising the quality of the outcome.
Teeth can be moved at any age as long as the gums and bone are healthy. Adult treatment differs mainly in planning: existing crowns, missing teeth and gum health all have to be taken into account.
- Crowding that has worsened with age
- Teeth that have shifted after braces in the teenage years
- Spaces opening because of missing teeth or gum disease
- Uneven wear from a poor bite
- Alignment needed before implants, veneers or crowns
Adult Orthodontics at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, adult orthodontic treatment is provided by Dr. Marina Rubinshtein, who understands that adult patients often have different priorities and concerns than younger patients. Adults may have existing restorations, gum recession, or bone considerations that require a more nuanced treatment approach. Dr. Marina evaluates each patient’s dental history, current condition, and goals before recommending a plan that accounts for these factors while delivering a predictable, lasting result.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Comprehensive exam. Teeth, gums, existing restorations and bite are assessed.
- Gum health first. Any gum disease is treated before teeth are moved.
- Options. The appliances suited to your case and lifestyle are explained.
- Active treatment. Typically 6 to 24 months, depending on complexity.
- Restorative coordination. Planned crowns, veneers or implants are timed with tooth movement.
- Retention. Long-term retainers hold the result.
Appliance options for adults
| Option | Visibility | Lifestyle fit |
|---|---|---|
| Invisalign or clear aligners | Nearly invisible | Removable for meals and important meetings |
| Ceramic braces | Subtle | Nothing to remember |
| Lingual braces | Hidden | Nothing visible; speech adapts |
| Metal braces | Visible | Most economical and robust |
There is no age limit on moving teeth. The only requirement is healthy gums.
Living with Your Appliance
Day-to-day care
The first week
- Expect a few days of tenderness
- Eat soft foods at first
- Use wax or chewing aids as shown
Throughout treatment
- Keep cleanings every three to four months during treatment
- Clean thoroughly around the appliance
- Tell us about any new dental work
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- An appliance breaks
- Gums bleed or recede
- A crown or filling comes loose
Orthodontics Before Other Dental Work
Adult orthodontics also plays an important role in preparing the mouth for other dental work. Aligning the teeth before cosmetic or restorative treatment can improve the final result and create a better foundation for crowns, veneers, implants, and other restorations. For many patients, orthodontics is the first step in a broader treatment plan that transforms the entire smile.
Cost and Insurance
Orthodontic fees are usually quoted as one amount for the whole course of treatment, including adjustments and the first set of retainers.
What affects the cost
- The complexity of the tooth movement needed
- The type of appliance chosen
- The expected length of treatment
- Retainers and any replacement aligners
Some dental plans include an orthodontic benefit with a lifetime maximum. Payment is often spread across the months of treatment. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
For typical price ranges, read our guide to how much braces cost in Brooklyn.
