Having straight teeth and a nice smile is important to many people. While some are lucky enough to naturally have straight teeth, many seek orthodontic treatment like braces to correct issues like crooked teeth, gaps, or misalignments. There is often a misconception that braces are just for kids and teens, but getting braces later in adulthood is becoming more common. Adults can benefit from straighter teeth and orthodontic treatment just as much as younger patients. However, there is an age where orthodontists usually recommend alternatives to traditional braces. Understanding when braces may no longer be the best option can help you explore the most effective orthodontic treatments for your needs.
When is the best time to get braces?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic screening by age 7. Catching orthodontic issues early allows for more effective and shorter treatment times. The early mixed dentition stage around ages 7-9 is an optimal stage for braces or orthodontic appliances that can correct issues and guide permanent teeth into proper alignment. This helps avoid more extensive treatment later.
The main age range for traditional metal braces is between 10-14 years old while kids have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. This prepubescent stage allows for the most efficient and dramatic corrections as the child still has facial development ahead. Teens can also benefit from braces through age 18. However, treatment times may be longer the later braces are started in the teen years.
What is the latest age for braces to work effectively?
There is no definitive cutoff age when braces absolutely cannot work. However, effectiveness does decline with age. According to the AAO, braces are generally not recommended after age 18-21 at the latest. Some reasons braces tend to be less effective after this age include:
- Facial bone growth is near completion. Braces rely partially on guidance of growth to shift teeth into position.
- Root structure is fully developed. Reshaping roots becomes limited.
- Previous dental work like fillings or crowns can complicate treatment.
- Higher risks of periodontal disease may impact movement.
- Longer treatment times are required as teeth shift more slowly.
Adults in their 20s, 30s, or even older can still benefit from braces and achieve straighter teeth. However, orthodontists typically need to use more specialized techniques and slower, controlled force. Results may take longer and relapse is more likely than with younger patients.
When are clear aligner treatments preferred over braces?
Clear aligner brands like Invisalign are often the top choice for adults and older teens seeking straighter teeth. Benefits of clear aligners include:
- Removable for meals and cleaning
- Less noticeable on teeth
- Comfortable plastic won’t irritate cheeks/gums
- Utilize 3D imaging technology for precise movements
- Change aligners every 1-2 weeks to move teeth incrementally
- Allow for continued dental hygiene and prevent white spots
- Can incorporate attachments for certain movements
While braces rely on brackets glued to each tooth, clear aligners are customized trays that shift teeth position gradually over many aligners worn in a series. Aligners are preferred over braces for adults and teens self-conscious about appearance. However, not all cases can be treated with aligners alone and braces or additional techniques may be recommended by your orthodontist depending on your specific situation.
What age is too late for braces?
There is technically no age too late for braces as long as you still have teeth. While effectiveness drops off around 18-21, adults of any age can get braces if desired. However, additional considerations come into play the older you get before choosing braces. An orthodontist may recommend clear aligners or alternative treatments beyond a certain age due to factors like:
- Lengthier treatment times
- Higher risks of periodontal issues
- Difficulty wearing braces
- Pre-existing dental work
- Possibility of extractions
Everyone ages differently, so your particular health status can influence if braces are the right option vs. other methods of realigning teeth. Those with gum disease, bone loss, or extensive dental work like implants, crowns, or bridges may want to consider other options. But as long as you have most of your original teeth, braces can still work at an older age, just with compromises. Consult your orthodontist about your specific case.
What are alternatives if I’m too old for braces?
If traditional metal braces are not recommended for adults due to ineffectiveness or other factors, alternatives to discuss with your orthodontist include:
- Clear aligners like Invisalign
- Ceramic braces or lingual braces on back of teeth
- Retainers after initial minor alignment
- Inman Aligner
- Orthognathic surgery (jaw realignment)
Aligners and discreet braces are commonly used to improve mild-moderate issues in adults. More severe cases may require jaw surgery or extraction of teeth to allow alignment. Discuss your options to determine which treatment can achieve the desired results.
| Age Range | Braces Effectiveness | Other Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 7-9 years old | Most effective | Best time to correct issues before permanent teeth erupt |
| 10-14 years old | Highly effective | Typical age for traditional metal braces |
| 15-18 years old | Moderately effective | May use clear aligners for aesthetics |
| 18-21 years old | Less effective | Higher relapse risk after treatment |
| 21+ years old | Least effective | Longer treatment times, may need supplemental methods |
Case studies of braces at older ages
While less common, adults of all ages do sometimes opt for braces to correct long-standing orthodontic issues. Some examples include:
Maggie, Age 28
Maggie had very crowded, crooked lower teeth. She decided to get traditional braces at age 28 before her wedding to improve her smile for photos. Treatment took 24 months due to the severity of crowding. However, she was committed to braces and happy with her improved smile in time for her wedding day.
Tom, Age 42
Tom had a deep overbite causing jaw pain and cracking teeth. At age 42, he consulted an orthodontist and oral surgeon. Tom underwent double jaw surgery to properly align his bite. He got ceramic braces after surgery to stabilize his bite in the new position. Total treatment took 22 months but relieved Tom’s issues.
Nancy, Age 56
Nancy had worn a retainer since she was 13 but her teeth had shifted over the decades. At 56, she opted for clear aligners to gradually re-straighten her teeth. She wore aligners for 8 months and now continues to wear a retainer at night. Nancy was very pleased with her subtle improvements.
Frank, Age 62
Frank lost several molars over the years. His remaining teeth tipped and rotated due to gaps from missing teeth. Dentures were uncomfortable for Frank so at age 62 he pursued braces. It took 26 months and extractions of 2 premolars to align his teeth and close gaps. Frank opted for a partial denture to replace extracted teeth.
Connie, Age 38
Connie had severe bottom teeth crowding, large gaps in top teeth, and crooked midlines. She decided on lingual braces at 38 placed discreetly behind her teeth. Connie also got several dental implants to support improved alignment. Her treatment took 30 months due to the complexity but she was satisfied with the final results.
Conclusion
While early orthodontic treatment provides the fastest, most effective results, braces can still work at older ages. However, traditional metal braces are typically not recommended beyond the late teens and early 20s. Adults wishing to straighten teeth are better candidates for clear aligners or discreet braces. These allow for gradual alignment without compromising aesthetics, dental health, or age concerns like lengthier treatment times. Alternatives like orthognathic surgery may also be considered for severe issues beyond simple straightening. Speak to your orthodontist about the best options tailored to your unique needs and oral health status.