Orthodontic care isn’t just for teens anymore. In fact, more adults than ever are choosing to straighten their teeth and improve their smiles — and it’s happening right here in Shreveport-Bossier.
Whether it’s for improved confidence, oral health, or professional appearance, adult orthodontics is on the rise. Thanks to more discreet and convenient treatment options, adults are discovering that it’s never too late to achieve the smile they’ve always wanted.
If you’re an adult considering braces or clear aligners, you’re not alone. This guide explores why more people are choosing orthodontic care later in life, what your options are, and how treatment can fit into your busy lifestyle.
Why Are More Adults Seeking Orthodontic Treatment?
Adults choose orthodontics for many reasons โ and for most, itโs a combination of both health and aesthetics. Hereโs whatโs driving the trend:
1. Improved Self-Confidence
A straighter smile can make a big difference in how you feel about yourself — at work, in photos, or in social settings. Many adults who didn’t have access to orthodontic care when they were younger now have the means and motivation to invest in their smile.
2. Better Oral Health
Crooked or crowded teeth can be harder to clean properly, leading to plaque buildup, gum disease, and uneven tooth wear. Orthodontic treatment can help align the bite, reduce pressure on certain teeth, and make daily hygiene easier and more effective.
3. A More Professional Appearance
In customer-facing or leadership roles, your smile can impact first impressions. Adults often seek treatment to boost their professional confidence and present themselves with more polish.
4. Relapse from Previous Treatment
Some adults had braces as teens but didn’t wear their retainers long-term. As a result, teeth have shifted back. A second round of orthodontic treatment — often more subtle and shorter in duration — can correct the relapse.
5. New Treatment Options
Modern orthodontics offers more discreet and flexible solutions than ever before. With clear aligners and ceramic braces, adults can straighten their teeth without feeling self-conscious or inconvenienced.
Orthodontic Options for Adults
Today’s orthodontic technology allows treatment to be tailored to your lifestyle and goals. Most adults in Shreveport-Bossier choose from the following options:
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners (like Spark or in-house systems) are removable trays that gently shift your teeth over time. Theyโre virtually invisible when worn and offer the flexibility to:
- Remove during meals
- Brush and floss normally
- Attend work or events without visible hardware
Clear aligners are ideal for adults who value discretion and have mild to moderate alignment concerns.
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are still widely used and highly effective. While more visible, todayโs versions are smaller, sleeker, and more comfortable than in the past. Theyโre often the best choice for more complex cases that require precise movement.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic (or clear) braces function like metal ones but use tooth-colored materials to blend in with your smile. This makes them a popular option for adults who need the power of braces but want a subtler look.
Benefits of Orthodontics for Adults
Getting orthodontic treatment as an adult comes with unique advantages. Here’s what you can expect:
Enhanced Appearance
A beautiful smile can lift your confidence and leave a lasting impression. It’s one of the most noticeable and memorable aspects of your face.
Long-Term Health
Proper alignment helps protect your teeth and gums from damage. You’re less likely to experience uneven wear, jaw pain, or decay in hard-to-reach places.
Better Function
Correcting bite issues can improve how your teeth come together when chewing or speaking. Many adults don’t realize how much misalignment may be contributing to discomfort or inefficient biting.
Preventive Care
Straightening your teeth can make your oral hygiene routine more effective — reducing the risk of costly dental procedures down the road.
What to Expect During Treatment
Adult orthodontics is more personalized than ever. During your consultation, an orthodontist will assess your teeth, bite, jaw alignment, and oral health to recommend the best treatment for your goals.
Timeline
Most adult treatments take between 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity. For minor adjustments or retreatment cases, it may be shorter.
Appointments
Expect to visit your orthodontist regularly — whether for check-ins on your clear aligner progress or adjustments to your braces.
Maintenance
If you’re using clear aligners, you’ll need to wear them 20–22 hours per day. With braces, you’ll need to follow good hygiene habits and avoid foods that can damage the brackets.
Is Adult Orthodontic Treatment Worth It?
Many adults worry they’re “too old” for braces or that the process will be uncomfortable or disruptive. But in reality, adult patients are some of the most successful — because they’re motivated, understand the value of the investment, and are committed to the results.
If you’ve been putting off orthodontic care due to appearance, time, or uncertainty, now is a great time to revisit your options. The results can be life-changing — not just for your smile, but for your overall confidence and health.
Questions Adults Often Ask
- Will I need to change my diet?
With braces, you may need to avoid sticky or hard foods. Clear aligners, however, are removed for meals โ so you can eat what you like. - How visible will my treatment be?
Clear aligners and ceramic braces are much more discreet than traditional metal options. Many adult patients complete treatment with minimal attention drawn to their smile. - Can I get orthodontic treatment with crowns or implants?
In many cases, yes โ though your orthodontist will carefully plan around any restorations to ensure safe and effective movement. - Is it too late to start?
Absolutely not. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, as long as your teeth and gums are healthy.
Adult Orthodontics Is Growing in Shreveport-Bossier — And You’re Not Alone
More adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment — and they’re seeing incredible results in both appearance and overall oral health. Whether you’re fixing a lifelong concern or revisiting orthodontics after relapse, there’s never been a better time to get started.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
At Graf Orthodontics, we work with adults across Shreveport-Bossier City to create personalized treatment plans that fit real life โ no matter your age. From clear aligners to discreet braces, we make it easy to feel confident and cared for every step of the way.
Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward the smile youโve always wanted โ because a better smile has no age limit.