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Your Orthodontic Journey: Questions Uncovered

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American Association of Orthodontists›FAQs

What kinds of orthodontic problems do adults have?

Adults can have the same kinds of orthodontic problems that children and teens have – crowding or too much space between teeth; overbites or underbites. Front teeth may stick out. In the case of an open bite, the front teeth may not make contact when the back teeth touch, or vice versa. Poorly aligned teeth and jaws can, over time, result in abnormal wearing of tooth surfaces. Your orthodontist is in the best position to recommend the type of appliance for your unique treatment needs. Not every type of appliance is suitable for correcting every kind of orthodontic problem. Your AAO orthodontist is qualified to ensure you receive the personalized treatment that is best for you.

Do other adults get orthodontic treatment?

Yes they do. As of 2016, there were 1,690,000 adults being treated by U.S. and Canadian members of the American Association of Orthodontists.

Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

You are never too old for orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist considers many variables when developing your customized treatment plan, but age is rarely a deciding factor.

Can your teeth shift as an adult?

Yes. Adult teeth do and can shift over time, whether or not you had braces when you were a teenager.

Is orthognathic surgery performed only on adults?

For best results, orthognathic surgery to correct misaligned jaws and teeth is usually performed on patients whose jaws have finished developing or growing, typically in the the late teens to early twenties.

Does insurance typically cover surgical orthodontics?

While dental insurance may cover some or all of your orthodontic treatment, it does not typically cover orthognathic surgery. If you do have insurance coverage for surgery, it would be through your medical insurance. To see if your plan covers surgical orthodontics, check with your provider.

Why is surgical orthodontics necessary?

Unlike children, adults are no longer growing, so surgery is the only way to modify the size, shape, or position of an adult’s jaw bones.

How often do I need to clean my mouthguard?

We recommend rinsing your mouth guard after use and storing it in a clean container. You should never toss your mouth guard loose in your gym bag with your dirty clothes and shoes. You should also make sure to deep clean it at least once a month.

Will a mouthguard be uncomfortable?

The comfort level largely depends on the type of mouthguard. With a variety of styles and types to choose from, consulting with your orthodontist is recommended to identify the best option for you.

Can I wear a mouthguard with braces?

Absolutely! Wearing a mouthguard with braces is not only possible but strongly recommended to aid in protection from dental trauma.