How Long Does Adult Orthodontic Treatment Usually Take?

Treatment length varies based on individual needs, but many adult orthodontic cases are completed within 12 to 24 months. More complex cases may take longer.

Can Adults Get Braces If They Have Crowns or Implants?

Yes, many adults with crowns, bridges, or implants can still undergo orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist will design a plan that works safely around existing dental restorations.

Is Invisalign® Effective for Adult Orthodontic Treatment?

Invisalign® is an effective option for many adults with mild to moderate alignment or bite concerns. More complex cases may require braces or a combination approach.

Will Orthodontic Treatment Affect My Daily Routine?

Most adults continue their normal routines during treatment. While there may be brief adjustment periods, orthodontic care is designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life.

How Often Will Adults Need Orthodontic Appointments?

Adult patients are typically seen every 6 to 10 weeks, depending on the treatment plan and type of appliances used.

Adult Orthodontics

Adult Orthodontics in San Diego

It’s never too late to straighten your smile. Adult orthodontics at Elite Orthodontics Group in San Diego offers discreet options, Invisalign®, and clear braces, for crowding, bite problems, and teeth that have shifted over the years. Dr. Nader Ehsani has treated patients into their 70s, with plans built around a professional, busy adult life.

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids and teens. Today about one in five orthodontic patients is an adult (according to the American Association of Orthodontists), and modern options make it easier than ever to fit treatment into a working life. At Elite Orthodontics Group, board-certified orthodontist Dr. Nader Ehsani designs adult treatment around your goals, whether that’s a more confident smile, a healthier bite, or finally fixing what’s bothered you for years.

Why Adults Choose Orthodontic Treatment

Adults come to us for many reasons:

Improving smile appearance and confidence
Correcting crowding, spacing, or bite problems
Re-treating teeth that shifted after braces years ago (often from skipping retainers)
Preparing for restorative work like implants, crowns, or veneers
Protecting long-term oral health and function

The Benefits of Adult Orthodontics

Straightening your teeth as an adult does more than improve your smile:

A straighter, more confident smile
Better bite alignment and easier chewing
Teeth that are easier to brush and floss (lowering decay and gum disease risk)
Less uneven wear from grinding or a bad bite
Closing gaps or creating space for missing teeth and restorative work

Your Options as an Adult Patient

Most adults want results without a mouth full of metal. Elite Orthodontics Group offers discreet, modern choices:

Invisalign for Adults

As a Diamond+ Invisalign provider (one of the top provider tiers), Dr. Ehsani offers clear aligners that are nearly invisible and removable for meals and meetings. For many adults with mild to moderate concerns, Invisalign is the ideal balance of discretion and results. See our Invisalign page for the full picture.

Clear and Modern Braces

Clear ceramic braces blend with your teeth for cases better suited to fixed appliances, and today’s smaller, advanced brackets are more comfortable than the braces you remember.

Dr. Ehsani will recommend the right option for your bite, your timeline, and your lifestyle. You can also compare all treatment options.

Adult-Specific Considerations

Adult treatment isn’t the same as a teen’s. Mature bone moves differently, and many adults have existing dental work. The good news is that patients with crowns, bridges, or implants can usually still be treated.

Dr. Ehsani plans carefully around restorations and coordinates with your general dentist when needed. Treatment is also frequently combined with restorative care to rebuild a healthy, functional smile.

Adults also tend to have specific concerns that we plan for from the start. Gum health matters more with age, so Dr. Ehsani ensures your gums and supporting bone are healthy before and during treatment, and coordinates with your dentist or periodontist as needed. Habits like grinding or a long history of a bad bite can affect your plan, and existing fillings and dental work are mapped before we begin.

The result is a treatment plan tailored to an adult mouth, not a scaled-down version of a teenager’s. Many adults are also relieved to learn that discreet options and flexible scheduling make treatment far easier to fit around work and family than they expected.

What to Expect

Most adults are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable modern treatment is. Mild soreness after an adjustment usually peaks on the first day and fades fast. Smaller appliances and customized digital planning mean shorter visits and, often, a shorter overall treatment time. Adult cases typically run 12 to 24 months, with check-ins every 6 to 10 weeks.

Cost and Financing

Adult treatment cost depends on your case, the option you choose, and how long you’re in treatment. Elite Orthodontics Group offers interest-free in-house plans, CareCredit, and PPO insurance assistance. See Invisalign cost and financing and insurance. Se habla español.

Is It Ever Too Late for Braces?

No. Dr. Ehsani has successfully treated adult patients from their 50s into their 70s. With today’s options, adults at any age can enjoy healthier teeth, a better bite, and a more confident smile.

Start Your Adult Treatment in San Diego

Considering a straighter smile? Book a complimentary consultation with Dr. Ehsani and get an honest assessment and a plan that fits your life. Conveniently located in Serra Mesa / Kearny Mesa, serving Mission Valley, La Jolla, Clairemont, and central San Diego.

> Schedule your free consult → Request an appointment · (858) 277-8080 · Se habla español.

Reviewed by Dr. Nader Ehsani, board-certified orthodontist (American Board of Orthodontics) and Diamond+ Invisalign provider. Meet Dr. Ehsani.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s never too late to improve your smile and oral health. Below are answers to some of the most common questions adults have about orthodontic treatment, including braces, Invisalign, treatment timelines, costs, and what to expect throughout the process.

Will braces or Invisalign affect my professional life?

Discreet options make it easy. Invisalign is nearly invisible and removable for presentations and photos; clear braces are subtle. Most adults work and socialize normally throughout treatment.

Can orthodontics help before I get dental implants or crowns?

Yes, and it’s common. Moving teeth into better positions first can create proper space and alignment for restorative work, so your final implants, crowns, or veneers fit and function better.

How is adult treatment different from a teen's?

Adult bone is fully mature, so some movements take a little longer, and adults more often combine orthodontics with restorative or gum care. Otherwise, the experience and the results are excellent.

Is adult orthodontic treatment covered by insurance?

Some PPO plans include adult orthodontic benefits, though many focus on children. Our team will review your specific plan, explain what’s covered, and set up an interest-free payment plan for any remaining balance.