Medically reviewed by Dr. Boris Pinhasov, DDS – American Board of Orthodontics Diplomate | 20+ Years Experience | Last Updated: March 2026
There is no age limit on achieving a straighter, healthier smile. More adults than ever are pursuing orthodontic treatment – the American Association of Orthodontists reports that adult patients now make up over 25 percent of all orthodontic cases. Whether you missed out on braces as a teenager, experienced shifting teeth over the years, or want to correct a bite problem that has been causing discomfort, adult orthodontics can deliver excellent results. Dr. Boris Pinhasov, DDS – a Board-Certified Orthodontist and ABO Diplomate at BP Smiles in Queens – has extensive experience helping adults transform their smiles at every stage of life.
Why Adults Seek Orthodontic Treatment
Adults choose orthodontic treatment for many reasons. Some have lived with crooked teeth or a misaligned bite for decades and are finally ready to address it. Others had braces as teenagers but did not wear their retainers, and their teeth have shifted back over time. Many adults discover that bite problems are contributing to jaw pain, headaches, uneven tooth wear, or difficulty chewing. And for some, the motivation is purely professional and social – a confident smile can make a meaningful difference in career interactions and personal relationships.
Modern Discreet Treatment Options
One of the biggest reasons adults hesitate to get orthodontic treatment is the fear of looking like a teenager in metal braces. The good news is that modern orthodontics offers several discreet options that fit seamlessly into an adult lifestyle.
Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible and removable, allowing you to eat, brush, and floss normally. They are ideal for mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and bite issues. Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend with your teeth, offering the precision of traditional braces with a much less noticeable appearance. For patients who need comprehensive correction with maximum discretion, lingual braces attach to the back surfaces of the teeth, making them completely hidden from view.
How Adult Treatment Differs from Adolescent Treatment
Adult orthodontics requires a slightly different approach than treating teenagers. Adult bones are fully developed, which means teeth may move a bit more slowly and treatment times can be somewhat longer. However, adults tend to be more compliant with wearing aligners and following care instructions, which often offsets the biological difference.
Adults are also more likely to have existing dental work – crowns, bridges, or missing teeth – that needs to be accounted for in the treatment plan. Dr. Pinhasov coordinates with general dentists and other specialists when needed to ensure that orthodontic treatment works harmoniously with any existing restorations. Some adult patients also have gum disease that must be managed before or during orthodontic treatment, which Dr. Pinhasov monitors closely throughout the process.
Addressing Common Adult Concerns
Many adults worry that they are “too old” for braces. The reality is that healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Dr. Pinhasov has successfully treated patients in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, orthodontic treatment is a viable option.
Another common concern is treatment duration. While adult cases vary, many can be completed in 12 to 24 months depending on complexity. Some minor alignment cases with Invisalign can be finished in as few as 6 months. Dr. Pinhasov provides a clear timeline estimate during your initial consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
Cost is another factor adults weigh carefully. BP Smiles Orthodontics works with most insurance plans and offers flexible payment options to make treatment accessible. Many adults are surprised to find that the investment is more manageable than they expected.
Long-Term Health Benefits
Straight teeth are not just about appearance. Properly aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. A corrected bite distributes chewing forces evenly, protecting teeth from excessive wear and reducing strain on the jaw joint. Many adult patients report that headaches, jaw pain, and neck tension they had attributed to stress were actually caused by bite misalignment – and resolved after orthodontic treatment.
Schedule Your Adult Orthodontic Consultation
It is never too late to invest in your smile and your health. Dr. Boris Pinhasov and the team at BP Smiles Orthodontics in Queens, NY have helped countless adults achieve the smile they have always wanted – with treatment options designed to fit your lifestyle and budget. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary adult orthodontic consultation and take the first step toward a smile you can be proud of at any age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I too old for braces?
No. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Dr. Pinhasov regularly treats adults in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and older. As long as your teeth and gums are in good condition, orthodontic treatment can be effective and safe regardless of your age.
How long does adult orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment duration varies based on the complexity of your case. Minor alignment issues with Invisalign can be resolved in as few as 6 months, while more comprehensive cases typically take 12 to 24 months. Dr. Pinhasov provides a personalized timeline estimate during your initial consultation.
Is Invisalign effective for adults?
Yes. Invisalign is highly effective for adults with mild to moderate crowding, spacing, and certain bite issues. Adults often do very well with Invisalign because they are disciplined about wearing the aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours per day. Dr. Pinhasov will assess whether Invisalign is the right option for your specific case.
Can I get orthodontic treatment if I have crowns or dental implants?
Yes, in most cases. Crowns can have brackets bonded to them, and treatment can be planned around existing dental work. Dental implants cannot be moved by braces because they are fused to the bone, but orthodontic treatment can align the surrounding teeth around an implant. Dr. Pinhasov coordinates with your general dentist to create a plan that works with your existing restorations.
Disclaimer
Medically reviewed by Dr. Boris Pinhasov, Board-Certified Orthodontist.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
