If you've been dreaming of a straighter smile but assumed that ship sailed decades ago, think again. More adults than ever are discovering that age is just a number when it comes to orthodontic treatment. Whether you're in your 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond, achieving the smile you've always wanted is absolutely possible—and the team at Laredo Orthodontics is here to help make it happen.
Why Adults Are Choosing Orthodontic Treatment
The American Association of Orthodontists reports that approximately one in three orthodontic patients today is an adult. This growing trend reflects a shift in how people view orthodontic care—not just as a teenage rite of passage, but as a valuable investment in health and confidence at any stage of life.
Adults seek orthodontic treatment for many reasons:
- Aesthetic Concerns: Years of feeling self-conscious about crooked teeth, gaps, or misalignment often motivate adults to finally pursue the smile they've always wanted.
- Relapse After Previous Treatment: Many adults had braces as teenagers but didn't wear their retainers consistently. Over time, teeth naturally shift, and what was once a straight smile may have gradually become misaligned again.
- Age-Related Changes: Jawbones and teeth continue to shift throughout our lives. Tooth loss, bone changes, and pressure from tongue and cheek muscles can contribute to alignment issues that develop over time.
- Health and Function: A misaligned bite can cause uneven wear on tooth enamel, leading to increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and difficulty chewing.
The Science Behind Adult Orthodontics
One common misconception is that adult teeth are somehow "set" and can't be moved. In reality, the biological process that allows teeth to shift through bone works the same way at any age. When gentle, consistent pressure is applied to teeth—whether through braces or clear aligners—the bone tissue surrounding the teeth remodels, allowing them to move into new positions.
The main difference between adult and adolescent treatment is that adults are no longer growing. While this doesn't prevent successful treatment, it can mean that treatment takes somewhat longer than it might for a teenager with a similar case. Adult bone tissue is denser and more mature, so the remodeling process may require additional time. However, the results can be just as effective and long-lasting.
Treatment Options for Adults at Laredo Orthodontics
One of the most exciting aspects of modern orthodontics is the variety of treatment options available to adults. Gone are the days when bulky metal braces were the only choice. Today's treatments are more comfortable, more efficient, and often far less noticeable than the braces of decades past.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign has become incredibly popular among adults who want a discreet way to straighten their teeth. These custom-made, clear plastic aligners fit snugly over your teeth and are virtually invisible to others. They're removable, which means you can take them out for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing—making it easier to maintain excellent oral hygiene throughout treatment.
At Laredo Orthodontics, Dr. Catalina Zambrano is a preferred Invisalign provider with extensive experience creating beautiful smiles using clear aligner therapy. Using advanced intraoral scanning technology, the team creates a digital impression of your teeth and develops a customized treatment plan that shows you exactly how your smile will transform over time.
Ceramic Braces
For adults who need the precision of traditional braces but prefer a more subtle appearance, ceramic braces offer an excellent alternative. These braces use tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend with your natural teeth, making them far less noticeable than metal braces while providing the same effective treatment.
Traditional Metal Braces
Today's metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever before. For complex cases or situations where maximum control over tooth movement is needed, traditional braces remain a highly effective option. Many adults find that the sleeker design of modern braces is far less intrusive than they expected.
What to Expect During Adult Treatment
Adult orthodontic treatment follows a similar process to treatment for younger patients, with a few important considerations.
Comprehensive Evaluation
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation where Dr. Zambrano examines your teeth, bite, and overall oral health. Using panoramic X-rays, intraoral cameras, and digital imaging technology, the team gathers detailed information about your unique situation. This allows them to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Addressing Existing Dental Work
Adults often have dental work that needs to be considered during orthodontic treatment—crowns, bridges, fillings, or even missing teeth. Dr. Zambrano works with your general dentist and any other dental specialists to coordinate care and ensure that your orthodontic treatment complements your overall dental health plan.
Treatment Timeline
While every case is unique, most adult orthodontic treatments last between 12 and 24 months, with some cases requiring additional time depending on complexity. Throughout your treatment, you'll have regular appointments to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Retention Phase
After your active treatment is complete, the retention phase begins. Wearing a retainer is essential for maintaining your results, as teeth have a natural tendency to shift back toward their original positions. At Laredo Orthodontics, options like FOREVERSMILE retainers help ensure your beautiful new smile stays exactly where it should be.
Benefits Beyond a Beautiful Smile
While aesthetics are often the primary motivation, the health benefits of orthodontic treatment are equally compelling.
- Improved Oral Hygiene: Straight teeth are significantly easier to brush and floss effectively. When teeth are crowded or overlapping, thorough cleaning becomes difficult, leading to increased plaque buildup and higher risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Better Bite Function: A properly aligned bite distributes chewing forces evenly across all teeth, reducing uneven wear and decreasing the risk of chips, cracks, and damage. It can also alleviate jaw pain, headaches, and TMJ symptoms.
- Long-Term Dental Health: By addressing alignment and bite issues now, you're investing in the long-term health of your teeth. Taking action now can help prevent more extensive dental work down the road.
- Confidence and Quality of Life: Many adults who complete treatment report feeling more comfortable in social and professional situations, smiling more freely, and experiencing a significant boost in self-esteem.
Common Questions About Adult Orthodontics
Am I too old for braces?
Absolutely not. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, you're a candidate for orthodontic treatment. Patients in their 50s, 60s, and even 70s have successfully completed treatment.
Will treatment hurt?
You may experience mild discomfort when braces are first placed or when aligners are changed. This typically subsides within a few days.
How often will I need appointments?
Most patients visit every 6 to 12 weeks for progress checks and adjustments.
Can I get braces if I have crowns or missing teeth?
Yes. Dr. Zambrano has extensive experience treating adults with complex dental histories.
Making Treatment Affordable
Laredo Orthodontics believes that a beautiful smile should be within reach for everyone. The practice offers several payment options to help make treatment accessible, including:
- In-house financing plans
- Cash discount options
- CareCredit health and wellness credit card
- Insurance coordination for patients with orthodontic coverage
During your consultation, the friendly front office team will walk you through all available options and help you find a payment plan that fits your budget.
Your Journey to a Confident Smile Starts Here
Dr. Catalina Zambrano and the experienced team at Laredo Orthodontics have been transforming smiles in the Laredo community for decades. As the first orthodontic practice established in Laredo back in 1985, Laredo Orthodontics combines years of experience with the most advanced orthodontic technology available. Dr. Zambrano's extensive training—including a Master of Science and Certificate of Orthodontics from UT Health San Antonio—ensures that every patient receives expert care tailored to their unique needs.
Schedule Your Free Consultation in Laredo
Ready to take the first step toward the smile you've always wanted? Contact Laredo Orthodontics today to schedule your complimentary consultation. The team will answer all your questions, explain your treatment options, and help you envision the beautiful smile that's waiting for you—no matter your age.
