Getting Adult Braces: What’s Different in Your 30s, 40s and 50s?

Have you caught yourself wondering whether it’s “too late” to straighten your teeth while staring at your reflection? Perhaps your teeth have shifted since your teenage years, or maybe you simply never had the chance to get braces when you were younger.

If so, know this: The idea that orthodontics is only for teenagers is completely outdated.

The numbers tell an interesting story. In a 2023 BOS (British Orthodontic Society) study, 76% of orthodontists surveyed reported an increase in adult patients seeking orthodontic treatment within the previous three years. Plus, 83% of adult orthodontic patients surveyed were aged 26–55. Across London, especially, more adults are choosing braces to boost their confidence and career prospects. Adult orthodontics has become increasingly sophisticated, with treatment options designed specifically for busy lifestyles.

So, what’s different about getting braces as an adult?

While the biological process of moving teeth remains the same, adult orthodontic treatment in your 30s, 40s and 50s involves unique considerations around health, lifestyle and aesthetics that simply don’t apply to younger patients. Below, we explore these considerations.

Can teeth move at any age?

In short: Yes, your teeth can move at any age, as long as your gums, surrounding ligaments and bone are healthy.

The science behind it is quite fascinating. Orthodontic treatment relies on your body’s natural cellular activity. When gentle pressure is applied to a tooth, it triggers a process called bone remodelling. On the side where pressure is applied, cells called osteoclasts resorb (remove) bone. On the opposite side, cells called osteoblasts build new bone. It’s your body's way of adapting to the gentle forces of braces.

But there is a difference for adults. Because adult bones are fully developed and denser than those of teenagers, adult treatment may take slightly longer. Research discussed in Dentistry magazine suggests that while adult bone responds effectively to mechanical stimuli, the rate of tooth movement can be slower due to reduced cellular activity compared to younger patients.

The good news? This biological process works just as reliably for braces for adults as it does for teens. However, you’ll need a bit more patience. Think of it as a gentle, guided journey rather than a race. Your orthodontist will create a treatment plan that accounts for your individual biology and ensures your teeth move safely into their ideal positions.

Your 30s: correcting relapse and career confidence

If you’re in your 30s, you’re likely experiencing what’s known as “orthodontic relapse”. This is the decade when many adults who had braces as teenagers suddenly notice their teeth shifting back, especially if they’ve lost their retainer or not worn it consistently.

This age group often seeks adult teeth straightening for very specific reasons:

• Minor crowding or spacing that’s developed over time
• Teeth that have gradually shifted since teenage treatment
• A desire for a confident smile during career advancement
• Upcoming weddings or milestone events

Your 30s are often a time of professional growth, which is why many patients tell us that a straighter smile gives them added confidence in presentations, client meetings and networking events.

This is also the decade when aesthetic concerns are at their highest. Most adults don’t fancy the idea of traditional metal brackets during an important career phase. The demand for discreet adult braces has never been higher, with options like clear aligners and ceramic braces offering virtually invisible treatment. Getting braces in your 30s doesn’t mean sacrificing your professional image.

Your 40s: prioritising gum health and prevention

Can you get braces in your 40s? Absolutely. This is actually one of the most common ages to start treatment – and for good reason.

In your 40s, the focus shifts from pure aesthetics to health and prevention. Here’s why that matters:

The gum health connection

Crooked teeth are notoriously difficult to clean properly. Those tight spaces and overlapping areas become breeding grounds for plaque, significantly increasing your risk of gum disease. Research indicates that adults may have pre-existing periodontal issues, so it’s vital to address gum health before starting adult orthodontic treatment.

Your orthodontist will work closely with your dentist to ensure your gums are in good condition before placing any braces. Think of it as building on a solid foundation.

Preventing wear and damage

Misaligned bites don’t just look crooked. They function poorly, too. You might notice:

1. Uneven wear on tooth enamel
2. Chips or cracks appearing on certain teeth
3. Jaw pain or headaches (often related to TMJ issues)
4. Difficulty chewing certain foods

These problems become more apparent in your 40s, but adult orthodontic treatment can correct the underlying alignment issues before they cause lasting damage.

Many patients in this age group have reached a point of financial stability where they can finally invest in the smile they’ve always wanted. Rest assured that it’s never too late to prioritise your oral health.

Your 50s and beyond: menopause, bone density and restorative care

Age is genuinely not a barrier. We successfully treat patients in their 60s and 70s, proving it’s never too late to invest in your smile. The 50s and beyond come with their own considerations, but none of them prevent you from achieving straighter teeth.

Hormonal changes and bone health

For women patients, menopause brings hormonal shifts that can affect orthodontic treatment. Reduced oestrogen levels can impact bone density, which may influence how quickly teeth move. These changes can also cause dry mouth, making meticulous oral hygiene even more important during treatment.

Your orthodontist will take these factors into account when creating your treatment plan, potentially adjusting the treatment duration to ensure safe, effective results.

Working around existing dental work

By your 50s, you may have crowns, bridges or dental implants. The good news is that an experienced orthodontist can plan treatment options around these restorations. Fixed braces can be adapted, and clear aligners can be designed to accommodate existing dental work.

It’s worth noting that implants can’t move (they’re fused to the bone), but your natural teeth can still shift into better positions around them.

Medical considerations matter

Certain medications, such as bisphosphonates used for bone density, can influence the rate of tooth movement. This makes a thorough medical history review essential before starting treatment.

Other medications that may affect treatment include:

• Blood thinners
• Immunosuppressants
• Certain arthritis medications

If you’re on any of these, don’t worry. They don’t necessarily prevent orthodontic treatment. They simply require additional planning and monitoring.

Straightening teeth later in life can preserve your natural teeth for longer and improve chewing function, which becomes increasingly important as we age. Many adults in this demographic tell us they wish they’d done it sooner.

What treatment options are available for adults in London?

At our practice in London, we offer cutting-edge treatment options designed for adult lifestyles:

Clear aligners (like Invisalign): Removable, virtually invisible trays that gradually shift the teeth. They’re a popular choice for adults who want maximum discretion.

Ceramic braces: Like traditional fixed braces, but they use tooth-coloured or clear brackets, making them far less noticeable.

Lingual braces: Fixed braces placed on the back of teeth, completely hidden from view.

Damon braces: Self-ligating brackets that use a slide mechanism, often requiring fewer adjustments and potentially shorter treatment times.

Traditional metal braces: Still the most effective treatment for complex cases. Modern versions are smaller and more comfortable than ever.

Your orthodontist will recommend the most suitable option based on your specific needs, lifestyle and the complexity of your case.

How long do adult braces take?

The honest answer to this common question is: it depends. Treatment can take anywhere from six months for minor corrections to 24 months for more complex cases.

Several factors influence treatment duration:

• The severity of misalignment
• Your age and bone density
• How well you follow your treatment plan
• The type of braces you choose
• Whether teeth need to be extracted

Generally speaking, adult treatment may take slightly longer than teenage treatment because adult bones are denser. But many patients see noticeable improvements within just a few months, even if full treatment takes longer.

Take the first step towards a straighter smile

Whether you’re in your 30s and dealing with orthodontic relapse, your 40s and prioritising gum health, or your 50s and beyond, thinking about straightening your teeth for the first time, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.

More adults than ever are choosing braces. Plus, the range of discreet options means you don’t have to compromise your professional image or lifestyle. The biological process works at any age, and modern orthodontics offers effective treatment options tailored specifically for adult cases.

Ready to book your adult orthodontic consultation? Get in touch with us today for a FREE consultation to discuss which treatment options might work best for you.

FAQs

Am I too old to get braces?

No, you’re not. Teeth can move at any age as long as your gums and surrounding bone are healthy. The biological process of bone remodelling works just as reliably in adults as it does in teenagers, though treatment may take slightly longer due to denser bone.

Will getting braces in my 40s or 50s take longer than it would have in my teens?

Generally, yes. Adult treatment may take slightly longer because adult bones are fully developed and denser, which means teeth move at a slower rate. Treatment typically ranges from six months for minor corrections to 24 months for complex cases. The good news is that many patients see noticeable improvements within just a few months, even if full treatment takes longer.

What happens if I have crowns, bridges or implants?

An experienced orthodontist can plan treatment around your existing dental work. Fixed braces can be adapted, and clear aligners can be designed to accommodate crowns and bridges. Keep in mind that implants can’t move because they’re fused to the bone, but your natural teeth can still shift into better positions around them.

Do I need to worry about gum disease before starting treatment?

Yes, gum health is essential before starting orthodontic treatment. Crooked teeth are harder to clean, which increases the risk of gum disease and plaque buildup. Your orthodontist will work closely with your dentist to ensure your gums are in good condition before placing any braces. Think of it as building on a solid foundation.

What are the most discreet options for adults?

You’ve got several choices. Clear aligners like Invisalign are removable and virtually invisible. Ceramic braces use tooth-coloured or clear brackets that are far less noticeable than traditional metal. Lingual braces are fixed to the back of your teeth, making them completely hidden from view. Your orthodontist will recommend the most suitable option based on your lifestyle and the complexity of your case.