Thinking about straightening your teeth as an adult? You’re in good company. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, roughly 1 in 3 orthodontic patients today is an adult. Maybe you never had braces as a teenager. Maybe your teeth have shifted over the years. Either way, modern orthodontic treatment now includes options like clear ceramic brackets, lingual braces, and removable clear aligners. The team at Moore Orthodontics, serving families across Waxahachie, Midlothian, and Hillsboro, has helped countless adults achieve the smiles they’ve always wanted. Here’s everything you need to know about adult braces and clear aligners, from how they work to what they cost.
What Are Adult Braces and Clear Aligners?
Adult braces and clear aligners are orthodontic treatments that straighten teeth, correct bite issues, and improve oral health. Braces use brackets and wires bonded to teeth; clear aligners use removable transparent trays that shift teeth gradually over time.
Both are effective, and an orthodontic specialist like Dr. Cody Moore can help determine which option fits your needs best.
Adult Braces
Adult braces come in several varieties. Traditional metal braces use stainless steel brackets bonded to each tooth, connected by an archwire that applies gentle, continuous pressure. Ceramic braces work the same way but use tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend with your natural teeth. Then there are lingual braces, which attach to the back surfaces of your teeth, making them completely invisible from the front.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners take a different approach entirely. These are removable, transparent plastic trays custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth. Each set of aligners shifts your teeth incrementally, and you switch to a new set every one to two weeks as your teeth gradually move into their ideal positions.
Both options effectively correct common orthodontic concerns: crowding, spacing gaps, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and general misalignment.
Modern technology has changed both treatment types significantly. Digital scanners have replaced messy dental impressions. Computer modeling allows you to preview your results before treatment begins. And today’s materials are more comfortable and efficient than anything available even a decade ago.
How Do Adult Braces and Clear Aligners Work?
Understanding how each treatment works can help you make a more informed decision about which option fits your life.
How Does the Braces Process Work?
Braces work by applying gentle, continuous pressure through brackets and archwires to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation. Dr. Cody Moore uses digital imaging and 3D scans to assess your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment, then creates a personalized treatment plan for your specific needs.
During your bonding appointment, brackets are carefully attached to each tooth using a special dental adhesive. An archwire threads through the brackets, and small elastic bands hold everything in place. The whole thing typically takes about an hour.
You’ll return to our Waxahachie, Midlothian, or Hillsboro practice every four to eight weeks for adjustments. We tighten the archwire and swap out the elastic bands during these visits. Each adjustment applies new pressure to continue guiding your teeth into their proper positions.
The average treatment time for adult braces ranges from 18 to 24 months, though complex cases can take longer. Bone tissue remodels around each tooth as it moves, which is why consistent appointments matter.
How Does the Clear Aligner Process Work?
Clear aligners work through a series of custom-made removable trays, each designed to move your teeth in small, controlled increments over one to two weeks. The process at Moore Orthodontics starts with a digital scan of your teeth using iTero technology. No goopy molds needed. This creates a precise 3D model of your mouth, which we use to map out your entire treatment from start to finish. You can actually see a simulation of how your teeth will move before you commit to treatment.
From that digital plan, a series of custom aligners is fabricated specifically for you. Each aligner is slightly different, engineered to move your teeth in small, controlled increments. You wear each set for one to two weeks, then move on to the next set in the series.
Aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours per day for optimal results. You remove them only to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush your teeth. Pretty easy to work into your routine. This removability is one of the biggest advantages of clear aligner treatment.
Check-up appointments are typically scheduled every six to eight weeks. These visits are usually quick, as we simply confirm your teeth are tracking properly and provide your next sets of aligners.
For eligible cases, clear aligner treatment averages 12 to 18 months.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
Straightening your teeth as an adult isn’t just about aesthetics. The benefits go well beyond a beautiful smile.
How Does Straightening Teeth Improve Oral Health?
Crooked or crowded teeth create hard-to-reach spaces where plaque and bacteria accumulate. Straighter teeth are significantly easier to brush and floss effectively, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease. That alone is worth it.
An improper bite puts uneven stress on your teeth and jaw. Over time, this can lead to jaw discomfort, chronic headaches, and excessive wear on certain teeth. Correcting your bite distributes forces evenly, protecting your teeth and reducing discomfort.
Certain alignment issues can also affect how you pronounce words or how efficiently you chew food. Dr. Moore and the team at Moore Orthodontics evaluate these factors during every consultation to make sure treatment addresses both alignment and long-term oral health.
Can Orthodontics Boost Confidence and Prevent Future Problems?
Absolutely. Many adults feel self-conscious about their smiles, covering their mouth when they laugh or avoiding photos. A straighter smile often translates to greater confidence in both personal and professional settings.
Here’s what else adult orthodontic treatment offers:
- Discreet options that fit your life. Metal braces aren’t your only choice anymore. Ceramic braces blend with your natural tooth color, and clear aligners are virtually invisible. Most people won’t even notice you’re undergoing treatment.
- Prevention of future dental issues. Misaligned teeth and bite issues can worsen over time, potentially leading to cracked teeth, gum recession, or the need for extensive restorative treatment. Investing in orthodontic treatment now can prevent costly care down the road.
- Properly aligned teeth are easier to maintain, more comfortable, and contribute to better overall oral health for years to come.
Adult Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between braces and clear aligners depends on several factors. We help patients weigh these factors every day at Moore Orthodontics, an AAO member practice. Here’s how they stack up side by side:
| Factor | Metal Braces | Ceramic Braces | Clear Aligners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Most noticeable | Discreet (tooth-colored) | Nearly invisible |
| Comfort | Initial soreness; brackets can irritate cheeks | Similar to metal; smoother brackets | No brackets or wires; smooth plastic |
| Effectiveness | Handles all complexity levels | Handles most complexity levels | Best for mild-to-moderate cases |
| Removability | Fixed in place | Fixed in place | Removable for eating and cleaning |
| Dietary Restrictions | Avoid hard, sticky, chewy foods | Avoid hard, sticky, chewy foods | No restrictions (aligners removed to eat) |
| Maintenance | Careful brushing around brackets | Careful brushing around brackets | Easy: brush teeth and rinse aligners |
| Average Treatment Time | 18-24 months | 18-24 months | 12-18 months for eligible cases |
When Are Braces the Better Choice?
Braces remain the gold standard for complex orthodontic cases. If you have severe crowding, significant tooth rotation, or complex bite issues like deep overbites or severe underbites, braces typically deliver more predictable results. They’re also ideal if you’re concerned about compliance, since they work continuously without requiring you to remember to wear them.
When Do Clear Aligners Work Best?
Clear aligners excel for adults with mild-to-moderate alignment issues who value discretion and flexibility. If your work involves frequent presentations, client meetings, or public speaking, the virtually invisible design is a real advantage. The ability to remove aligners for meals means no dietary restrictions, and oral hygiene is simpler since you can brush and floss normally.
How Does Your Lifestyle Affect the Decision?
Consider your daily routine. Do you travel frequently? Clear aligners are easy to manage on the go. Do you play contact sports? Aligners can be removed during games, while braces require a mouthguard.
The best way to determine which option suits you is through a professional evaluation. During a free consult at Moore Orthodontics, we assess your specific situation and discuss which approach will achieve your goals most effectively.
How Much Do Adult Braces and Clear Aligners Cost?
Adult braces typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000. Clear aligners generally range from $3,000 to $8,000. Your actual investment depends on several factors, including case complexity and treatment duration. Here’s what you need to know about costs at Moore Orthodontics in the Ellis and Hill County area.
What Factors Influence Cost?
Case complexity: More severe alignment issues require longer treatment and more adjustments, which increases the overall cost. A minor spacing issue will cost less than correcting a severe overbite with crowding.
Treatment duration: Longer treatments naturally cost more due to additional appointments, materials, and professional time involved.
Geographic location: Orthodontic fees vary by region, with urban areas and higher cost-of-living regions typically having higher fees.
Provider experience: An AAO member orthodontic specialist like Dr. Moore brings specialized training and expertise that ensures efficient, effective treatment. This expertise often means fewer complications and better long-term results.
How Can You Make Treatment Affordable?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits that cover a portion of adult treatment. Check with your provider to understand your specific coverage.
Beyond insurance, flexible and affordable payment options make treatment accessible for most budgets. Moore Orthodontics offers a payment calculator to help you understand your monthly investment. HSA (Health Savings Account) and FSA (Flexible Spending Account) funds can also be applied to orthodontic treatment, providing tax advantages.
The best way to understand your specific investment is through a free consult. We provide a transparent cost breakdown so you know exactly what to expect before beginning treatment. No surprises, just honest information to help you make the right decision for your smile and your budget.
Are You a Candidate for Adult Braces or Clear Aligners?
Most adults with healthy teeth and gums are excellent candidates for braces or clear aligners. Ideal candidates have crowding, spacing, or bite issues they want corrected. Age is rarely a limiting factor. Adults in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond successfully complete orthodontic treatment every day at practices like Moore Orthodontics.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Braces?
You’re likely a better candidate for braces if you have:
- Complex bite issues requiring precise tooth control
- Severe crowding or significant spacing
- Teeth with substantial rotation
- Previous orthodontic treatment that has relapsed significantly
- Concerns about wearing aligners consistently
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners could be your best option if you have:
- Mild-to-moderate crowding or spacing
- Minor bite corrections needed
- A lifestyle that benefits from removable treatment
- Strong commitment to wearing aligners as directed
- A preference for virtually invisible treatment
What Factors Could Affect Candidacy?
Certain conditions require evaluation before beginning treatment:
- Active gum disease: This should be treated and stabilized before orthodontic treatment begins.
- Missing teeth: This situation often requires additional planning or restorative work in coordination with your general dentist.
- Jaw disorders (TMJ issues): These should be assessed to determine if orthodontics will help or if other treatment is needed first.
- Existing restorations: Crowns, bridges, and implants don’t move like natural teeth, but treatment can often be planned around them.
The only way to know for certain which treatment is right for you is through a professional evaluation with an AAO member orthodontic specialist like Dr. Cody Moore. During your free consult, we take digital scans, review your dental history, and discuss your goals to create a recommendation specifically for you. Our team evaluates each patient individually because we don’t believe in cookie-cutter service, and every case is different. That personal attention is what sets the experience apart.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces and Clear Aligners
Is it too late to get braces as an adult?
Not at all. We regularly treat patients in their 50s and 60s with great results. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Adult orthodontics has grown significantly in recent years because more people recognize the real benefits of improving their smile and oral health, no matter where they are in life. As long as your teeth and gums are in good shape, you’re a candidate.
Do clear aligners work as well as braces?
For mild-to-moderate cases, clear aligners achieve results comparable to traditional braces. They’re highly effective for crowding, spacing, and minor bite corrections. For complex cases involving severe rotation, significant bite issues, or vertical tooth movement, braces tend to provide more predictable results. Your orthodontic specialist will recommend the best option for your specific situation.
How long does adult orthodontic treatment take?
It depends on the method and complexity of your case. Clear aligners for mild-to-moderate issues often wrap up in 12 to 18 months. Braces for more complex cases average 18 to 24 months. Your orthodontic specialist will provide a more accurate timeline during your free consult based on your individual needs.
Can I get braces if I have crowns or other restorations?
Yes, in most cases. Crowns, veneers, and other restorations don’t prevent orthodontic treatment, though they do require special consideration during treatment planning. Brackets are bonded differently to crowned teeth, and clear aligner treatment can often work around existing restorations. Dental implants, however, cannot be moved like natural teeth, so treatment is planned around their fixed positions.
Will insurance cover adult braces or aligners?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits that apply to adult treatment. Coverage varies widely, with some plans covering a percentage of treatment and others offering a lifetime maximum benefit. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage. Our team can also help you work through your benefits and maximize your coverage.
Is orthodontic treatment painful?
Most patients experience mild discomfort rather than significant pain. With braces, you can expect some tenderness for a few days after adjustments as your teeth begin to move. With clear aligners, you might notice pressure when switching to a new set of trays. Over-the-counter relievers and eating soft foods can help manage any temporary discomfort. Honestly? Most patients find it minimal and well worth the results.
If you’ve been thinking about orthodontic treatment as an adult, that’s a great first step. The team at Moore Orthodontics, led by Dr. Cody Moore and Dr. Bill Fletcher, has been creating beautiful smiles for children, teens, and adults since 1982, and every personalized treatment we create is designed with you in mind. To learn more about your options, visit us at one of our convenient locations in Waxahachie, Midlothian, or Hillsboro. We offer before and after-school appointments, flexible and affordable payment options, and a fun, family-oriented, and professional environment where you feel like one of our family.