If you’re over 30, had braces as a kid, and have been noticing that your teeth aren’t as straight as they used to be, you’re not alone. Many adults find themselves in the same situation, wondering why their teeth have shifted and dreading the idea of going through orthodontic treatment again. You’ve already been through braces once—why would you need to go through it all over again?
As a board-certified orthodontist with experience in research, I’m here to explain why re-treatment as an adult doesn’t have to take years. In fact, with today’s orthodontic advancements, treatment can often be completed in just a few months.
Why Do Teeth Shift After Braces?
The most challenging part of orthodontic treatment is correcting your bite, which often takes nearly a year. If your bite was corrected during your childhood braces, adult re-treatment is typically focused on re-aligning your front teeth, which makes the process faster and easier.
There’s another important reason why re-treatment should only take a few months: as we age, our teeth and the underlying bone that supports them aren’t designed for extended orthodontic therapy. Keeping treatment short is both more effective and safer for your long-term oral health.
Aligners vs. Braces for Adult Re-Treatment
The best way to fine-tune your smile is often with clear aligners. Clear aligners are more comfortable and efficient than traditional braces in many ways, but they do require constant attention and wear time. Adults can often burn out on wearing aligners for long periods.
Here’s a solution: start your re-treatment with clear braces for the first three months. This method can drastically shorten the time you need to wear aligners, making the overall process quicker and more comfortable. Braces are more efficient for the first 25% of your treatment, especially when correcting lower teeth, while aligners are faster for the remaining 75%.
Benefits of Shorter Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
More orthodontists are treating adult patients with a combination of clear braces and clear aligners to complete treatment in 9-12 months rather than the 24 months you may remember from childhood. This approach is faster, easier, and often less expensive, making it a popular option for adults who want to restore their smiles without the long-term commitment of traditional braces.
Get Your Smile Back—Faster and Easier Than You Think
You don’t have to dread the idea of orthodontic re-treatment. With modern technology and streamlined approaches, realigning your teeth as an adult can be a fast, efficient process that leaves you with a confident, beautifully aligned smile.
Free Orthodontic Consultation—Start Your Journey Today
If you’re interested in learning more about how adult orthodontic re-treatment can work for you, we offer a free orthodontic consultation. Our team will evaluate your needs and provide a personalized treatment plan designed to achieve results in as little time as possible.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile—without the long wait!
