Orthodontics isn’t just for teenagers. A growing share of people having their teeth straightened are adults: some who never had the chance as children, some whose teeth have moved since braces years ago, and some who want to fix crowding before other dental work. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, it’s rarely too late.
Many adults straighten their teeth with clear aligners. At Hornsby Dental we offer Invisalign, Spark and Angel Aligner.
Why adults straighten their teeth
- Appearance and confidence: crowding, gaps or protruding teeth that have always bothered them
- Relapse: teeth that have drifted after childhood braces, often because retainers stopped being worn
- Easier cleaning: crowded, overlapping teeth trap plaque and are harder to keep healthy
- Bite and wear: uneven bites can cause teeth to wear or chip
- Preparing for other treatment: aligning teeth before veneers, crowns or implants can give a better result and sometimes means less tooth needs to be prepared
Is it different for adults?
Teeth move in adults in the same way as in teenagers, but there are a few differences:
- The jaws have stopped growing, so some bite problems that could be guided in a growing child need different approaches in adults, and occasionally surgery
- Gum health matters more: gum disease must be treated and stable before teeth are moved
- Existing dental work such as crowns, bridges and implants affects how teeth can be moved; implants themselves don’t move
- Treatment can take a little longer than in teenagers
- Adults are usually very committed, which helps, especially with aligners
Your options
Invisalign clear aligners
Clear aligners are the most popular choice for adults. A series of custom plastic trays gradually move the teeth, each worn for one to two weeks. They’re nearly invisible, removable for eating and cleaning, and don’t involve brackets or wires.
- Need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day
- Small tooth-coloured attachments are often bonded to some teeth to help the aligners grip
- Reviews every six to ten weeks
- At Hornsby Dental, Invisalign ranges from $4,200 to $8,990 depending on complexity
Fixed braces
Metal or tooth-coloured ceramic brackets with wires. Braces work around the clock and suit a wide range of problems, including complex movements.
- No reliance on remembering to wear them
- Need extra care with cleaning and food
- Adjustments every four to eight weeks
- Range from $4,000 to $8,000 depending on complexity
Other options
For very minor problems, such as a single slightly rotated front tooth, cosmetic alternatives like composite bonding or veneers can change how teeth appear without moving them. They don’t correct the bite, and they involve adding to or preparing the teeth, so it’s worth comparing carefully.
How long does treatment take?
Simple adult cases may take six to twelve months. Moderate crowding or bite correction usually takes 12 to 24 months. Your dentist will estimate your timeframe after your assessment and digital scan.
What happens at an assessment
- A discussion about what you’d like to change and your dental history
- An examination of your teeth, gums, bite and jaw joints
- X-rays to check roots, bone levels and any hidden problems
- Photos and a digital 3D scan
- An explanation of options, timeframe and costs; with Invisalign, you may be able to see a simulation of the planned tooth movement
A complimentary Invisalign consultation is available for applicable patients. Complex cases may be referred to a specialist orthodontist.
Living with treatment as an adult
- Work and social life: aligners are discreet, and most people adapt to speaking with them within a few days
- Eating: with aligners, remove them to eat and brush before putting them back; with braces, avoid hard and sticky foods
- Coffee and tea: remove aligners for hot drinks, which can warp the plastic and stain
- Discomfort: teeth may feel tender for a day or two with each new aligner or adjustment
Keeping your result: retainers
Teeth have a natural tendency to move throughout life. After treatment, retainers hold your teeth in place, and long-term night-time wear is usually recommended. Many adults who had braces as teenagers and later saw their teeth move simply stopped wearing a retainer.
Find out more about orthodontics in Hornsby.
FAQs
Am I too old for braces or Invisalign?
There’s no upper age limit. Healthy teeth and gums matter far more than age.
Can I straighten teeth if I have crowns or fillings?
Usually yes. Aligner attachments and brackets can be bonded to many crowns and fillings, and your dentist will plan around them.
Will my health fund cover adult orthodontics?
Some extras policies include orthodontics for adults, often with lifetime limits. Check your policy and ask us for item numbers.
Can I combine straightening with whitening?
Yes. Whitening is often done near the end of aligner treatment, sometimes using the aligners as trays.
See orthodontics and Invisalign.
Book a visit at Hornsby Dental
Hornsby Dental is at Suite 21, 14 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby, about three minutes’ walk from Hornsby Station, with free street parking nearby. We’re open Monday to Friday 9am–6pm and Saturday 8:30am–4pm. Book online or call (02) 8090 1100.
This article is general information only. It isn’t a substitute for advice from your dentist about your own mouth and health.