Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for kids. Today, more than a third of all orthodontic patients are adults. With advancements in discreet treatment options like clear aligners and lingual braces, more adults than ever before are choosing to get braces. However, the decision to get braces is a monumental one. 

There are several reasons why you might want to consider braces as an adult, from improving oral health, boosting self-confidence, or correcting bite issues that cause jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty chewing. Whatever your motivation, being well-informed about the process and choosing the right treatment is important. 

Read on to learn more about getting braces as an adult and where to find a dentist who offers the best braces for adults in Beverly Hills.

Braces Aren’t Just for Teens: Why You’re Never Too Old to Get a Perfect Smile

Adults are realizing that it's never too late to achieve the perfect smile they've always wanted. It doesn’t matter if you’re in your thirties or your seventies; orthodontic treatment still works to solve misaligned teeth or bites. Even better is that modern braces now come in various styles, including discreet options like Invisalign. Although orthodontic treatment may take slightly longer than it would for a child or teen whose jaw structure is still growing, treatments are still incredibly effective. 

The Life-Changing Benefits of Adult Braces

Getting braces as an adult can be truly life-changing, offering benefits that go far beyond just having a better smile:

  • While straight teeth certainly look great, they also play a crucial role in your overall oral health. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. 
  • Adults who undergo orthodontic treatment also often experience a significant boost in self-confidence, which can positively impact both personal and professional relationships. 
  • Correcting misaligned teeth can prevent future dental problems, such as uneven wear on tooth enamel, jaw pain, and difficulty chewing. 
  • Adult braces can also save you from more complex and expensive dental procedures down the road. 

Metal, Clear, or Invisible? Finding the Best Braces for Your Lifestyle

Modern-day orthodontics offers a variety of adult-friendly options to fit different lifestyles and preferences:

  • Traditional metal braces are still popular due to their effectiveness and affordability, but they're the most noticeable. 
  • Clear ceramic braces work similarly to metal ones but blend in better with your teeth, though they can be more expensive and prone to staining. 
  • Lingual braces are hidden behind your teeth, making them invisible from the front, but they can be costly and may affect speech initially. 
  • Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are nearly invisible and removable. This allows for easier eating and cleaning. However, they require strict discipline to wear consistently and may not be suitable for complex cases. 

Each option has pros and cons, so discussing your lifestyle, budget, and treatment goals with an orthodontist to find the best fit is important.

How Long Will It Take to Get Your Dream Smile?

Adult orthodontic treatment time in Beverly Hills can vary but typically ranges from one to three years, depending on individual needs. This is slightly longer than for younger patients, as adult bones are no longer growing and may be less responsive to orthodontic pressure. 

Factors affecting treatment duration include:

  • The complexity of your case
  • The type of braces that you and your orthodontist choose 
  • How consistently you follow your orthodontist's instructions

Understand that severe misalignments or bite issues may take longer to correct than minor crowding. Despite that, most adults find that the boost in confidence and improved oral health make any temporary inconveniences more than worthwhile.

Where to Find the Most Experienced Orthodontist for Adult Braces in Beverly Hills

As a patient of West LA Orthodontics, you'll be in the trusted care of Dr. Jonathan Shouhed, affectionately known as Dr. J. He leads the practice with a commitment to combining cutting-edge technology and a compassionate, patient-centered approach. 

Dr. J's conservative treatment philosophy ensures you receive only the most necessary and effective procedures tailored to your needs. By choosing West LA Orthodontics for your adult braces, you're investing in a transformative smile and supporting a practice that gives back to the community. 

Whether you're considering clear aligners, lingual braces, or traditional options, Dr. J and his team are ready to guide you toward your perfect smile in a comfortable, state-of-the-art environment.

Ready to start your orthodontic journey with the best dentist for adult braces in Beverly Hills?