Adults choose orthodontic treatment for many reasons: greater confidence, a more comfortable bite, easier cleaning, preparation for restorative dentistry or movement after earlier treatment. OSSTL creates practical plans for adult lives and adult dental needs.
Why adults seek orthodontic treatment
Straightening teeth can improve appearance, but adult orthodontics is not limited to cosmetic alignment. Crowded or overlapping teeth can be harder to brush and floss. An uneven bite may contribute to abnormal wear, chipping or difficulty maintaining certain teeth. Some patients need space created or closed before an implant, crown or bridge can be completed.
Other adults notice that teeth have shifted after earlier braces, often because retainers were lost or no longer worn. The right response may be limited correction, comprehensive treatment or simply a new orthodontic retainer. An examination helps distinguish among those options instead of assuming every change requires starting over.
Braces or Invisalign for adults?
Modern braces for adults offer reliable fixed treatment and precise control. Metal braces are durable and efficient, while clear ceramic braces provide a subtler fixed option for selected patients. Because braces remain attached, treatment does not depend on remembering to wear an appliance.
Invisalign for adults uses removable clear aligners. Patients can take them out for meals and normal brushing, but consistent wear is essential. Existing crowns, implants, bridges and gum health can influence which option is most predictable. Our broader Invisalign versus braces guide explains the daily and clinical tradeoffs without declaring one appliance universally better.
Planning around adult dental health
Adult treatment often involves details that are uncommon in younger patients. Teeth with crowns can frequently be moved, but implants cannot be repositioned orthodontically because they are fused to the bone. Missing teeth may require spaces to be maintained, opened or closed. Gum health and bone support must also be considered before movement begins.
Dr. Robert Shapiro and Dr. Lisa Seim can coordinate with a general dentist, periodontist, oral surgeon or restorative dentist when orthodontics is one stage of a larger plan. That coordination helps place teeth where future dental work can function and look its best. You can meet the OSSTL orthodontists before scheduling an evaluation.
Treatment time, appointments and comfort
Adult orthodontic treatment may last several months for a limited correction or a year or longer for comprehensive alignment and bite care. Complexity, biological response, appliance choice and cooperation all influence timing. Healthy adult teeth can move predictably, although movement is not accelerated simply by scheduling more frequent visits.
Tenderness is common after braces are placed, wires are adjusted or a new aligner is started. It normally improves as the mouth adapts. Efficient progress visits are planned around the stage of treatment, and patients receive guidance for travel, work events and unexpected appliance concerns.
Cost and your first consultation
Adult orthodontic fees depend on the treatment required, expected duration and appliance selected. Some dental plans include adult orthodontic benefits, while others restrict coverage by age or lifetime maximum. HSA or FSA funds may also be available depending on the account and plan rules. Our orthodontic financing guide explains what to compare in an estimate.
A complimentary consultation at our Creve Coeur office or Sunset Hills office includes an evaluation, a discussion of appropriate options and a personalized fee. You will understand the recommendation and next steps before deciding whether to begin.
Frequently asked questions
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?+
No fixed age is too old if the teeth and supporting tissues are healthy enough for movement. Dental health and treatment goals matter more than age alone.
Can braces move crowned teeth?+
Crowned teeth can often be moved, although the restoration and supporting tooth must be evaluated. Dental implants cannot be moved like natural teeth.
Is Invisalign effective for adults?+
Yes, Invisalign can treat many adult alignment and bite concerns when it is appropriate for the required movements and worn consistently.
Will I need retainers?+
Yes. Retainers help protect the finished tooth positions after braces or Invisalign at every age.