What Are Adult Braces?
Adult braces are orthodontic appliances designed to straighten teeth and correct bite issues in patients 18 and older. Treatment options include metal, ceramic, and lingual braces, plus clear aligners. Most adult cases finish in 12 to 24 months, with results that improve oral health, function, and confidence for life.
Braces for adults in Aurora, CO have come a long way from the bulky hardware you might remember. Today’s options include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces that blend with your teeth, lingual braces placed behind your teeth, and clear aligner systems like Invisalign. Our orthodontic specialists at Garlock Orthodontics build custom treatment plans around your lifestyle, schedule, and smile goals, treating misalignment, crowding, gaps, and bite concerns.
You’re never too old to invest in your smile. Whether you missed out on braces as a teenager or your teeth have shifted over time, we’re here to help adults across Aurora, Colorado achieve the straight, healthy smiles they deserve. More adults than ever are choosing orthodontic care, and the American Association of Orthodontists reports that adult patients now make up a meaningful share of treatment cases nationwide.
Compare Your Adult Braces Options
| Type | Visibility | Cost Range | Treatment Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metal Braces | Visible | $ | 12 to 24 months | Complex bite corrections |
| Ceramic Braces | Low visibility | $ | 12 to 24 months | Adults wanting a discreet look |
| Lingual Braces | Hidden behind teeth | $ | 18 to 24 months | Professionals needing invisibility |
| Invisalign | Nearly invisible | $ | 12 to 18 months | Mild to moderate cases, removable preference |
Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult
Choosing braces as an adult pays off in ways that go beyond looks. At a glance, here’s what straightening your smile can do for you:
- Improve oral health and daily cleaning
- Ease jaw tension and TMJ discomfort
- Boost confidence in work and social settings
- Provide discreet treatment options
- Protect your teeth as a long-term investment
- Improve speech and chewing comfort
Let’s break each of these down a bit further:
Better Oral Health
Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss. When teeth overlap or crowd together, food particles and plaque hide in spots your toothbrush can’t reach. This raises your risk of cavities and gum disease. Properly aligned teeth make daily cleaning more effective.
Relief from Jaw Tension and TMJ Issues
A misaligned bite puts extra stress on your jaw joints and muscles. Many adults experience headaches, jaw clicking, or facial soreness without realizing their bite is the cause. Correcting your alignment can ease these symptoms and prevent uneven tooth wear.
Increased Confidence
Ever caught yourself hiding your smile in a photo or covering your mouth during a laugh? Adults often tell us they’ve waited years to fix their teeth, and once treatment is complete, they wish they’d started sooner. A smile you’re proud of changes how you carry yourself in every room you walk into.
Discreet Treatment Options
Worried about metal brackets at work? Ceramic braces and Invisalign are hard to spot at work or in meetings. Many of our adult patients finish treatment without coworkers or friends noticing.
Long-Term Investment
Orthodontic treatment protects your teeth for decades. Properly aligned teeth experience less wear, fewer chips, and better function. You’re investing in your future dental health.
Improved Speech and Chewing
Bite issues can affect how you speak and eat. Treatment improves both, making everyday activities more comfortable.
The Adult Braces Process at Our Aurora Practice
Our treatment process is built around busy adult schedules, with shorter visits, clear timelines, and predictable check-ins. Here’s what to expect when you visit our Aurora office:
Step 1: Your Free Consult
Your first visit includes a thorough exam and digital imaging. We’ll take photos and X-rays to understand your teeth, jaw, and bite. This free consult is completely no-obligation, with no pressure to move forward.
Step 2: Custom Treatment Plan
Based on your exam, our team creates a detailed plan built around your needs. A clear timeline, options breakdown, and full cost summary are all included. We answer every question before you make any decisions, and we’ll walk through which type of braces or aligners we think will deliver the best result for your bite.
Step 3: Braces Placement
When you’re ready, we schedule your placement visit. This typically takes one to two hours. Our team makes sure you’re comfortable throughout and explains exactly how to care for your traditional braces or ceramic braces at home.
Step 4: Regular Adjustment Visits
Plan to return every four to eight weeks for adjustments. These visits are quick, usually 20 to 30 minutes. We offer early morning and after-work slots so adjustments don’t pull you out of work, and we’re happy to text reminders the day before.
Step 5: Braces Removal
Once your teeth reach their final positions, we remove your braces. This visit is exciting! You’ll see your new smile for the first time.
Step 6: Retention Phase
After removal, a retainer keeps your teeth in place. We’ll explain exactly how and when to wear it. This phase is key for maintaining your results, and it’s the difference between a smile that holds for a year and one that holds for a lifetime.
Are You a Good Candidate for Adult Braces in Aurora?
Many adults wonder if they’re eligible for orthodontic treatment. The good news? There’s no upper age limit. Teeth can be moved at any age, as long as your gums and supporting bone are healthy.
You might be a great candidate if you have:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Crossbite, overbite, or underbite
- TMJ soreness or jaw discomfort
- Uneven tooth wear
- Teeth that have shifted since childhood treatment
Things to consider:
Active gum disease needs treatment before starting braces. Healthy gums and bone provide the foundation for safe tooth movement. If you have periodontal concerns, we’ll coordinate with your dentist to address them first.
Previous orthodontic work doesn’t disqualify you. Many adults who had braces as teenagers experience relapse when teeth shift over time. A second round of treatment can restore your results.
During your free consult at Garlock Orthodontics, we evaluate your specific situation and recommend the best approach. Some cases work better with traditional braces, while others are ideal for Invisalign. We help you understand which option fits your needs.
Why Aurora Adults Choose Garlock Orthodontics
When you’re ready to invest in your smile, choosing the right practice matters. Here’s what sets us apart in the Aurora, Colorado community:
Specialized Expertise
Dr. David Garlock and Dr. Logan Smith focus exclusively on orthodontics. Dr. Garlock leads our practice with years of clinical experience and takes a hands-on approach with every patient, personally reviewing each treatment plan and tracking progress visit by visit. Dr. Smith holds a Master’s in Orthodontics from Saint Louis University and has specialized training in Invisalign. As active members of the American Association of Orthodontists and American Dental Association, our team stays current with the latest techniques and research.
Advanced Technology
Digital scanning and 3D imaging let us plan your treatment with precision. These tools help us predict results accurately and make your visits more comfortable.
Treatment Plans for Real Life
Adults have different needs than teenagers. Work schedules, travel, and family responsibilities all factor into treatment. We design plans that fit your lifestyle and minimize disruption.
Flexible Payment Options
We offer low monthly payment options and work with your insurance to maximize benefits. Our online payment calculator helps you understand costs before your first visit, and you can learn more about orthodontic treatment cost on our pricing page.
The Garlock Experience
To us, you’re more than a patient with a set of pearly whites. We love people and love making them happy. Our Aurora team creates a welcoming environment where adults feel comfortable asking questions and sharing concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces
How much do adult braces cost in Aurora, CO?
Treatment costs vary based on your specific needs, the type of braces you choose, and how long treatment takes. During your free consult at Garlock Orthodontics in Aurora, Colorado, we provide a detailed cost breakdown with no hidden fees. We also offer low monthly payment options to make treatment accessible, and our team will verify any orthodontic insurance benefits you have to lower your out-of-pocket cost. Most adult patients find that monthly payments fit comfortably alongside other household expenses.
How long does adult orthodontic treatment take?
Most adult treatments take 12 to 24 months. Simple cases may finish sooner, while complex bite corrections can take longer. Your treatment plan includes a realistic timeline based on your specific goals. Adults often finish treatment faster than expected because they’re committed to following instructions, wearing their aligners or elastics consistently, and showing up for adjustment visits on time.
Are braces or Invisalign better for adults?
Both work well for adults. Invisalign suits mild-to-moderate cases and professionals who want a nearly invisible, removable option, while traditional braces handle complex bite corrections better. The right choice comes down to your bite, lifestyle, and smile goals. During your consult, we’ll explain which option addresses your concerns most effectively.
Do adult braces hurt?
You’ll feel some pressure and mild tenderness after adjustments. This typically lasts a few days and responds well to over-the-counter relievers. Most adults find the sensation manageable and much milder than they expected. Modern braces are more comfortable than older systems.
Will insurance cover braces for adults?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for adults. Coverage varies by plan, so we verify your benefits before treatment begins. Our team helps you understand exactly what your insurance covers and handles paperwork on your behalf, including claims and pre-authorizations.
Can I get braces if I had them as a teen?
Absolutely. Teeth can shift throughout life, especially if you stopped wearing your retainer. Many adults in Aurora, Colorado return for a second round of treatment to address relapse. These cases often take less time than initial treatment since we’re making smaller corrections.
Schedule Your Adult Braces Consultation in Aurora, CO
Ready to explore your options? Garlock Orthodontics offers free consults for adults considering braces for adults in Aurora, CO or Invisalign. There’s no obligation, just a chance to learn what’s possible for your smile.
During your visit, you’ll receive a custom treatment quote, understand your options, and get answers to all your questions. We’ll work with your schedule to find a time that works for you, including early morning and evening slots.
It’s never too late to invest in the smile you’ve always wanted. Aurora adults trust Garlock Orthodontics to go the extra smile for every patient.
Contact our office today to request your free consult. Our Aurora office welcomes patients from Centennial, Parker, and Southeast Denver.