Adults can start orthodontic treatment at almost any age, and the American Association of Orthodontists reports that 1 in 3 orthodontic patients today are adults. Reznik Orthodontics treats adults at both the Odessa and Midland offices with clear aligners, ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, and metal braces. The first consultation is complimentary.
Many adults come in because their teeth have shifted, their bite feels uneven, or they want a smile that feels more comfortable and confident. Some had braces years ago and noticed relapse. Others are looking into orthodontic care for the first time. It is not too late to improve your smile or bite, and discreet treatment options are available for many adult cases.
Why adult orthodontic care is different?
Teeth can move at any age, but adult treatment is planned differently because growth is complete. Concerns that may be related to jaw growth in a child may need to be addressed with tooth movement alone or, in more complex cases, in coordination with an oral surgeon.
Adult treatment also has to account for existing dental work and oral health history. Crowns, bridges, implants, fillings, missing teeth, gum recession, and previous extractions do not automatically rule out orthodontic care, but they do affect how the plan is built.
Healthy gums and bone support are important before treatment begins. If active gum disease is present, it may need to be treated by your dentist or periodontist before teeth are moved.
Common reasons adults start orthodontic treatment
Crowding and shifting, especially lower front teeth that have moved over time
Bite problems, including overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
Spacing and gaps, including spaces caused by missing teeth or natural tooth position
Uneven chewing or tooth wear caused by the way the teeth meet
Relapse after treatment, when teeth shift again because retainers were lost, stopped, or no longer fit properly.
If you are not sure which concern applies to you, the common orthodontic problems page explains many of the issues orthodontists evaluate.
Low-profile treatment options for adults
Invisalign clear aligners are removable and less noticeable than braces. They can be a good fit for adults who want a discreet option and can wear the aligners as directed.
Ceramic braces use clear or tooth-colored brackets, making them less noticeable than metal braces while still giving the doctor fixed control over tooth movement.
AO Empower self-ligating braces use a built-in clip instead of elastic ties. They are available in metal or clear brackets.
Metal braces remain a reliable option for complex tooth movement and bite correction.
The right option depends on your teeth, bite, goals, and daily routine. The types of braces page compares them side by side.
How long does treatment takes?
Many adult cases take 12 to 24 months, though smaller corrections may be shorter and complex bite problems may take longer. At your consultation, the doctor will give you an estimate based on your specific case.
Routine visits are usually scheduled every 6 to 8 weeks and take about 20 to 40 minutes. Our team helps plan visits around work, travel, and busy schedules when possible.
Financing options for orthodontics
Orthodontic insurance benefits are often different for adults than they are for children. Some plans include adult orthodontic coverage, while others cover dependents only. Benefits may also include a lifetime orthodontic maximum rather than an annual allowance.
Reznik Orthodontics accepts most PPO insurance plans, files claims on your behalf, and accepts assignment of benefits when the plan allows. Benefits are verified before treatment begins so you understand how your plan may apply.
What treatment looks like day to day
Getting braces placed usually takes one to two hours. Starting Invisalign clear aligners begins with a scan, followed by aligner trays made for your treatment plan.
Some soreness is normal during the first few days after braces are placed or aligners are started. If you have brackets, your cheeks and lips may need a short adjustment period, and orthodontic wax can help with irritation.
Your part in treatment includes keeping your teeth clean, wearing rubber bands or aligners as instructed, and keeping routine visits consistent. Life with braces covers daily care, food guidelines, and what to do if something feels uncomfortable.
Treatment finishes with retainers to help hold the teeth in their new positions. Retention is important because teeth can shift over time, even after orthodontic treatment is complete.
Schedule a complimentary adult consultation
Call the Odessa office at (432) 333-7105 or the Midland office at (432) 682-1222, or request an appointment online.
Dr. Megan Reznik, Dr. Derek Reznik, and Dr. Michael Reznik are board-certified orthodontists. Your consultation takes about an hour and includes the exam, a recommended treatment plan, an estimated timeline, and a fee estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 40 too old for braces?
No. There is no upper age limit, because tooth movement does not depend on growth. What matters is the health of your gums and the bone supporting your teeth, which is what the consultation examines.
Why does my dental plan cover my child's braces but not mine?
Many orthodontic benefits are written to cover dependents only, and most are capped at a lifetime maximum rather than renewing annually. That is plan design, not clinical judgment. The office will verify your benefits before you assume either way.
Can I have treatment if I have crowns, implants or a bridge?
Usually yes, with planning. Implants are fixed in bone and will not move, so the plan works around them. Crowned teeth move normally. Bring your dental history to the consultation.
Will treatment affect how I speak at work?
Braces cause little to no speech change for most adults. Aligners can produce a slight lisp for a few days as your tongue adjusts. If speech is a professional concern, raise it and it will factor into the recommendation.
Do I have to wear a retainer forever afterwards?
If you want the result to hold, yes, and that is true at any age. Adult teeth drift for the rest of your life, treated or not. A retainer at night is the whole maintenance requirement.