What Are Adult Braces?
Adult braces are orthodontic appliances designed for patients 18 and older that straighten teeth, correct bite problems, and improve long-term oral health. Unlike adolescent treatment, adult orthodontics accounts for fully developed jaws and often addresses years of shifting, wear, or issues that went untreated earlier in life. Braces for adults in Bensalem, PA give working professionals, parents, and retirees a practical path to a healthier smile.
Today’s adults have more options than ever. Traditional metal braces remain a reliable choice for complex cases. Clear ceramic braces offer the same effectiveness with a less noticeable appearance. Invisalign clear aligners provide a removable, nearly invisible alternative that fits into busy professional and personal schedules.
More adults are choosing to straighten their teeth now than at any point in recent memory. Better technology, discreet options, and flexible payment plans have removed many of the old barriers. At Dorfman Orthodontic Group in Bensalem, PA, our board certified orthodontist Dr. Jake Dorfman builds a custom treatment plan that works around your life, not the other way around.
Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult
Straight teeth aren’t just about appearance. Properly aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss, which means fewer cavities and a lower risk of gum disease over time. When your teeth fit together correctly, you’re also less likely to experience uneven wear that leads to chips, cracks, or sensitivity.
Key benefits at a glance:
- Healthier teeth and gums from easier cleaning
- Relief from jaw pain, headaches, and TMJ pressure
- A more confident smile in professional and social settings
- Discreet treatment options like clear braces and Invisalign
- Long-lasting results backed by the Smile Forever Guarantee
Better bite, less pain.
Many adults live with jaw discomfort, headaches, or TMJ symptoms without realizing their bite is the cause. Orthodontic treatment can relieve this tension by bringing your teeth into proper alignment.
Confidence that shows.
A straighter smile changes how you carry yourself in meetings, interviews, and social situations. Many of our adult patients tell us they smile more freely after treatment.
Treatment that fits your lifestyle.
Clear braces and Invisalign mean you don’t have to announce your treatment to the world. Most people won’t even notice you’re wearing aligners.
A lasting investment.
The teeth you straighten now stay straight with proper retainer wear. That’s why DOG Ortho offers our Smile Forever Guarantee to help protect your results for years to come.
Fix what shifted.
Had braces as a teen but skipped the retainer? You’re not alone. Many adults come to us to correct relapse from earlier treatment.
The Braces for Adults Process in Bensalem, PA
Getting braces as an adult is simpler than you might expect. Here’s what happens from your first call to your final retainer fitting:
Step 1: Complimentary Consultation
Your first visit at our Bensalem office includes a full exam using digital scanning technology. No goop, no gagging. Dr. Dorfman will review your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment to determine what type of treatment will work best for your goals.
Step 2: Your Custom Treatment Plan
We’ll walk you through your options, timeline, and cost breakdown. You’ll know exactly what to expect before making any decisions. Our team will also check your insurance benefits and explain financing options so there are no surprises.
Step 3: Braces Placement
This appointment takes about 60 to 90 minutes. We bond the brackets to your teeth and thread the initial wire. Expect to leave with everything you need to care for your braces at home.
Step 4: Regular Adjustments
Adjustments happen every 4 to 8 weeks at our Bensalem location. These appointments are quick, usually 15 to 20 minutes. Each visit moves you closer to your final result.
Step 5: Braces Removal and Retainers
Once your teeth are in position, we remove your braces and fit you with retainers. This is the day you’ve been waiting for. Your new smile is ready.
Treatment timeline: Most adult cases take between 12 and 24 months, depending on the complexity of your bite and alignment issues.
Are You a Good Candidate for Adult Braces?
Good news: there’s no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment. We regularly treat patients in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond. If you have healthy teeth and gums, braces can work for you.
You may be a candidate if you have:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Teeth that have shifted since previous treatment
- Jaw pain or difficulty chewing
What about existing dental work? Adults with crowns, bridges, or even some implants can still get braces. Dr. Dorfman will look at your specific situation and design a plan that works with your existing dental work.
Choosing your treatment type comes down to your lifestyle and preferences. Metal braces handle complex cases efficiently. Clear ceramic braces blend with your teeth. Invisalign offers flexibility for adults who travel often or prefer a removable option.
During your complimentary consultation, we’ll talk through which approach makes the most sense for your teeth, your schedule, and your budget.
Adult Braces vs. Teen Braces: What’s Different?
Adult treatment differs from teen treatment in a few important ways. Adult jaws are fully developed, so certain bite corrections may take a little longer than they would in a growing teenager. Adults also tend to have more existing dental work (crowns, fillings, bridges) that the treatment plan must account for. On the upside, adults are highly motivated patients who follow instructions carefully, which often leads to excellent results. Lifestyle factors also play a bigger role: many adults choose Invisalign or clear ceramic braces to keep treatment discreet at work and in social settings.
Why Bensalem Adults Choose Dorfman Orthodontic Group
Board certified expertise. Dr. Jake Dorfman is board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics and is a diamond plus Invisalign provider. That level of training means you’re getting care from an orthodontist who has proven his skills through rigorous examination and many years of successful cases.
The Smile Forever Guarantee. We stand behind your results. Our retainer program helps ensure your straight smile stays straight for years after treatment ends.
Flexible financing that works. We accept most major insurance plans and offer payment plans with low monthly payments. Use our online Payment Calculator to see what fits your budget before you even walk in the door.
Goop-free, comfortable impressions. Our digital scanning technology eliminates messy molds. It’s faster, more accurate, and much more comfortable.
A convenient location. Our Bensalem office offers hours that work for busy professionals. We know your time is valuable.
Real results you can see. We’re proud of the changes we’ve helped adults achieve. Ask to see before and after photos during your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces
How long do adult braces take?
Most adult treatment takes between 12 and 24 months. Your specific timeline depends on the complexity of your case. During your consultation, Dr. Dorfman will give you a realistic estimate based on your teeth and goals. Some minor corrections can be completed in under a year, while more complex bite issues may take longer.
How much do adult braces cost in Bensalem, PA?
Cost varies based on your treatment type and the length of your case. At Dorfman Orthodontic Group, we provide a full cost breakdown during your complimentary consultation. We accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible payment plans with low monthly payments and no down payment options.
Do adult braces hurt?
You’ll feel some pressure and tenderness after your braces are placed and following adjustments. This is normal and usually fades within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods help during the adjustment period. Most adults find the discomfort manageable and well worth the results.
Will insurance cover adult orthodontic treatment?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for adults, though coverage varies. Our team will verify your benefits and explain exactly what your plan covers before treatment begins. Even with partial coverage, our financing options make treatment affordable.
Can I get braces if I have crowns or implants?
Yes, in most cases. Crowns can have brackets bonded to them just like natural teeth. Implants are fixed in place and can’t be moved, but our board certified orthodontist Dr. Jake Dorfman can often work around them to straighten your other teeth. He’ll assess your specific situation during your consultation.
Metal braces vs. Invisalign: which is better for adults?
Both options deliver excellent results. The right choice depends on your case complexity, lifestyle, and preference for appearance. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Metal Braces | Invisalign |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Visible brackets and wires | Nearly invisible aligners |
| Compliance needed | Low (fixed to teeth) | High (20-22 hrs/day) |
| Best for | Complex bite cases | Mild to moderate cases |
| Removable | No | Yes, for eating and brushing |
| Office visits | Every 4-8 weeks | Every 6-10 weeks |
We’ll help you decide which option fits your lifestyle during your consultation.
Schedule Your Free Adult Braces Consultation in Bensalem
Ready to find out what braces can do for your smile? Your complimentary consultation at Dorfman Orthodontic Group includes a full exam, digital scans, and a personalized treatment recommendation with no obligation.
Call or text us at (215) 935-4639 to schedule your visit, or book online through our website.
Dorfman Orthodontic Group
Serving Bensalem, Southampton, and the surrounding Bucks County community
At your first visit, you’ll meet our board certified orthodontist Dr. Jake Dorfman, tour our office, and get all your questions answered. We’ll also review your insurance benefits and financing options so you can make a confident decision.