Adult Orthodontics
One in three orthodontic patients today is an adult. If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth but assumed braces were only for teenagers, that assumption is years out of date. At BP Smiles Orthodontics, Dr. Boris Pinhasov treats adults with the same clinical precision he brings to every case, using options designed to fit your life: clear aligners, ceramic braces, and Brava lingual braces that sit behind your teeth where no one sees them. You don’t have to settle for a smile that bothers you. Treatment is faster, more discreet, and more comfortable than it was even a decade ago.
Why Choose Dr. Pinhasov for Adult Treatment
Adult orthodontics isn’t just teen treatment applied to older patients. Adults often present with periodontal considerations, missing teeth, prior dental work like crowns and bridges, and jaw joint concerns that teenagers don’t have. Dr. Pinhasov’s 20+ years of experience, board certification from the American Board of Orthodontics, and role as Program Director of Orthodontics at Maimonides Medical Center mean he handles complex adult cases routinely.
His NYU training (DDS with Omicron Kappa Upsilon honors), FAGD, and ICOI Fellowship add depth in restorative and implant-related treatment planning. When your orthodontic case involves coordination with a general dentist, periodontist, or oral surgeon, Dr. Pinhasov has the clinical knowledge to lead that collaboration. Consultations are available in English, Hebrew, and Russian.
What Is Adult Orthodontics?
Adult orthodontics corrects misaligned teeth, improper bites, crowding, spacing, and jaw discrepancies in patients who are no longer growing. The biological process of tooth movement works at any age. Bone remodels around teeth when controlled forces are applied, and that process doesn’t stop when you turn 18 or 40 or 60.
What does change is the treatment planning. Adults may need:
- Coordination with restorative dentistry for teeth that have crowns or veneers
- Periodontal evaluation before treatment begins
- Modified force levels to protect bone that may have thinned with age
- Consideration of jaw joint health and existing TMJ symptoms
Treatment Options for Adults
Invisalign Clear Aligners. A series of custom-made, removable clear trays that gradually shift teeth into position. Nearly invisible when worn. Removable for eating and brushing. Ideal for adults who want minimal visual impact during treatment.
Ceramic Braces. Tooth-colored brackets bonded to the front of teeth with tooth-colored or clear wires. They work like metal braces but blend with your teeth. A good choice for cases that need more control than aligners provide.
Brava Lingual Braces by BRIUS. Custom brackets bonded to the back (tongue side) of your teeth. Completely invisible from the outside. Fixed in place, so there’s no compliance concern. This is the most discreet fixed appliance available.
Metal Braces. Still the most effective option for complex cases. Today’s brackets are smaller and more comfortable than older designs. Some adults choose metal braces because they’re the most efficient option for their specific problem.
Common Adult Concerns
Will braces affect how I look at work? This is the number one concern adults raise. Clear aligners are virtually undetectable. Ceramic braces are subtle. Brava lingual braces are invisible. Dr. Pinhasov will recommend the option that matches your treatment needs and your preferences.
How long will treatment take? Average adult treatment ranges from 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the case. Some minor alignment cases finish in as few as 6 months. Dr. Pinhasov gives you a realistic timeline at your first consultation.
What about cost? BP Smiles offers flexible payment plans. Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for adults. Our team checks your coverage before treatment starts and walks you through your financial options.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your first visit includes a full examination, digital X-rays, photos, and either digital scans or impressions. Dr. Pinhasov develops a treatment plan and reviews it with you, including the recommended appliance, estimated duration, and cost.
Once treatment begins, you’ll visit the office every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments or aligner check-ins. Most appointments take 15 to 30 minutes. After treatment, you’ll wear retainers to maintain your results. Retainer wear is especially important for adults because teeth have a strong memory for their original positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I too old for braces?
No. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Dr. Pinhasov has successfully treated patients in their 50s, 60s, and beyond. The key factor isn’t age but the health of your teeth and gums. A consultation determines whether you’re a candidate and which approach is best.
How long does adult treatment take?
Most adult cases take 12 to 24 months. Mild crowding or spacing may resolve in 6 to 12 months. More complex bite corrections can take up to 30 months. Dr. Pinhasov provides a case-specific estimate during your initial consultation so you can plan accordingly.
Is Invisalign better than braces for adults?
Neither is universally better. Invisalign works well for mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and certain bite issues. Braces, whether ceramic, lingual, or metal, offer more precise control for complex movements. Dr. Pinhasov recommends the option that will produce the best result for your specific case.
Does insurance cover adult braces?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits that apply to adults, typically covering a portion of treatment costs. Coverage varies by plan. Our office verifies your benefits before you commit to treatment so there are no surprises. We also offer payment plans to make treatment accessible.
Will braces affect my speech?
Any new appliance in your mouth may cause a brief adjustment period. With Invisalign, some patients notice a mild lisp for a day or two. Lingual braces like Brava may affect tongue placement initially. Most patients adapt within one to two weeks and speak normally.
