Why adults straighten their teeth
- Crowding that has got worse with age
- Teeth that moved back after braces as a teenager
- Gaps after gum disease or a lost tooth
- Making room for an implant or bridge
- Bite problems causing wear, chipping or jaw ache
- Easier cleaning, as crowded teeth trap plaque
Options for adults
| Invisalign and clear aligners | Ceramic braces | Metal braces | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Nearly invisible | Tooth-coloured | Visible |
| Removable | Yes | No | No |
| Daily discipline | Wear 20–22 hours a day | None | None |
| Complex cases | Many | All | All |
| Relative cost | Highest | Middle | Lowest |
See Invisalign vs braces for a fuller comparison.
What’s different for adults
- Gums first. Our periodontist checks and treats the gums so teeth move safely.
- Existing work. Crowns, bridges and implants don’t move; the plan works around them.
- Combined treatment. Straightening is often part of a bigger plan, such as making space for an implant or reducing how much tooth veneers need.
- Retainers for life, ideally at night, because teeth keep moving with age.
At Petal Smiles
Our orthodontist treats adults with Invisalign and other leading clear aligners, ceramic braces and metal braces, and plans combined cases with Dr. Adish and our periodontist in the same clinic. We’re open until 8pm every day, so appointments can fit around work. See Invisalign and clear aligners and braces.
Questions patients ask us
Am I too old for braces?
Usually not. Healthy teeth can be moved in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond. What matters is the health of your gums and bone, which is checked first.
Do braces take longer for adults?
Sometimes a little, because adult bone is denser. Many adult cases take 12 to 18 months; minor corrections can be much shorter.
Which braces are best for adults?
Many adults choose Invisalign or other clear aligners, or ceramic braces, because they're less visible. Metal braces remain an excellent option for complex cases.
Can adults with gum disease have braces?
Once the gum disease has been treated and is stable, often yes, with regular gum reviews during treatment.
Will braces affect my work?
Little, with aligners or ceramic braces. Speech may feel different for a few days at first.
Sources
NHS: braces and aligners ↗ADA MouthHealthy: braces ↗Last updated 14 October 2026.