What Are Adult Braces?
Adult braces are orthodontic appliances designed to straighten teeth and correct bite issues in patients 18 and older. If youโre dealing with crowding, gaps, or a misaligned bite, braces for adults in Wilsonville, OR offer a proven way to a healthier smile. At Senestraro Family Ortho, adults make up a significant portion of our patients, and for good reason. Your teeth respond to gentle, controlled pressure at any age, making orthodontic care just as effective at 35 or 55 as it is at 15.
Today’s adult braces come in several styles: traditional metal, tooth-colored ceramic, lingual (behind-the-teeth), and clear aligners like Invisalign. Our Wilsonville office offers all major options so you can choose what fits your lifestyle and goals.
Modern Adult Braces Options
Not sure which type of braces is right for you? Here’s a quick look at the main choices available at our Wilsonville practice:
- Traditional metal braces are the most common and often the most affordable option. Todayโs metal brackets are smaller and lower-profile than the ones you may remember from years ago.
- Ceramic braces use clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend in with your natural teeth. Theyโre a favorite among working professionals who want a discreet look.
- Lingual braces attach to the back of your teeth, making them virtually invisible from the front. Theyโre a great choice if youโd prefer that no one can tell youโre in orthodontic care.
- Clear aligners like Invisalign use a series of removable trays to gradually shift your teeth. Theyโre popular for their flexibility and convenience.
Dr. Seth will walk you through each option at your free consult and help you decide which one fits your goals, budget, and daily routine.
Benefits of Adult Orthodontic Treatment
Straightening your teeth does more than improve your appearance. Here’s what adult orthodontic care can do for you:
- Easier oral hygiene. Straight teeth are simpler to brush and floss. Fewer tight spaces mean less plaque buildup, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Relief from jaw discomfort. A corrected bite takes pressure off your jaw joints, and many adults find that TMJ tension, headaches, and uneven tooth wear improve after orthodontic care.
- Boosted confidence. Your smile matters in job interviews, first dates, and everyday conversations. Adults often tell us they wish theyโd done this sooner.
- A stable foundation for future dental care. If your general dentist is planning restorative work down the road, straight teeth give them a better starting point.
- Improved function. Chewing becomes more efficient, and some patients notice clearer speech once gaps or open bites are corrected.
- Discreet options for professionals. Ceramic braces and clear aligners let you straighten your teeth without drawing attention at work.
The Adult Braces Treatment Process
The adult braces process at Senestraro Family Ortho involves five steps: consultation, planning, placement, adjustments, and removal, typically over 12 to 24 months. Here’s a closer look at each stage:
Free consult and digital scan. Youโll meet with Dr. Seth Senestraro at our Wilsonville office. We use iTero 3D scanning, no goopy impressions, to capture detailed images of your teeth and bite.
Custom treatment plan. Dr. Seth reviews your scan, discusses your goals, and creates a plan designed for your goals. Youโll know your timeline and pricing before committing.
Braces placement. This visit typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. We bond the brackets to your teeth and connect the wire. Most patients describe mild pressure, not soreness.
Regular adjustment visits. Youโll come in every 6 to 8 weeks for wire changes and progress checks. These visits usually take 20 to 30 minutes.
Braces removal and retainers. Once your teeth reach their final positions, we remove your braces and fit you with retainers. Wearing them as directed keeps your smile in place for life.
Free consult and digital scan. Youโll meet with Dr. Seth Senestraro at our Wilsonville office. We use iTero 3D scanning, no goopy impressions, to capture detailed images of your teeth and bite.
Custom treatment plan. Dr. Seth reviews your scan, discusses your goals, and creates a plan designed for your goals. Youโll know your timeline and pricing before committing.
Braces placement. This visit typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. We bond the brackets to your teeth and connect the wire. Most patients describe mild pressure, not soreness.
Regular adjustment visits. Youโll come in every 6 to 8 weeks for wire changes and progress checks. These visits usually take 20 to 30 minutes.
Braces removal and retainers. Once your teeth reach their final positions, we remove your braces and fit you with retainers. Wearing them as directed keeps your smile in place for life.
How long does it take? Most adult cases wrap up in 12 to 24 months, depending on complexity.
Are You a Candidate for Adult Braces?
Most adults qualify for braces. Age alone isn’t a barrier. What matters is the health of your teeth and gums.
During your free consult, Dr. Seth Senestraro evaluates more than just tooth position. He assesses your jaw alignment, airway health, and TMJ function. Complex cases sometimes benefit from coordination with your general dentist or a periodontist.
Had braces as a teen but your teeth shifted? You’re not alone. Retreatment is common and often faster the second time around.
Why Adults Choose Braces in Wilsonville, OR
Specialized orthodontic expertise. Dr. Seth Senestraro is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists.
Advanced 3D scanning. Our iTero digital scanners create precise 3D models of your teeth. That means accurate treatment planning and fewer surprises along the way.
Real patient smiles. Consistently positive patient reviews from adults across the Wilsonville area speak to the care our team provides. We treat every patient like family.
Scheduling that works for you. We offer early morning and lunch-hour visits because we know adults have busy calendars.
Transparent pricing. Youโll receive a clear pricing estimate at your first visit. We offer affordable payment options, accept most insurance plans, and verify your benefits at no charge.
Convenient locations. Our Wilsonville practice is easy to reach from Tualatin, Sherwood, and Canby. We also have offices in Portland, Sherwood, and Tualatin, giving you four locations to choose from.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces
How long do adult braces take?
Most adult treatments take 12 to 24 months. Your timeline depends on the complexity of your case. Mild crowding may resolve in under a year, while significant bite corrections take longer. Dr. Seth will give you a realistic estimate during your free consult.
How much do adult braces cost in Wilsonville?
Adult braces pricing varies based on the type of braces you choose and the length of your orthodontic care. Senestraro Family Ortho offers flexible financing with affordable monthly payments. Many insurance plans include adult orthodontic coverage, and we’ll verify your benefits for free.
Are braces uncomfortable for adults?
You’ll feel mild soreness for a few days after placement and after each adjustment. Most patients describe it as pressure. Over-the-counter relief and soft foods help. The discomfort fades quickly as your mouth adjusts.
Can I get braces if I have existing dental work?
Great news, yes! Braces work around existing dental work with proper planning. Restorations can receive brackets, though we may use different bonding techniques. Implants don’t move like natural teeth, so we plan around them. Dr. Seth coordinates with your dentist when needed to keep everything on track.
Do adult braces work as well as braces for teens?
Yes. Teeth move at any age because the biological process is the same. Adults often see excellent smiles because they’re motivated and follow instructions carefully. The main difference? Adult bone is denser, so orthodontic care may take slightly longer than for a teenager with the same issue.
Will insurance cover adult orthodontics?
Many dental plans include orthodontic benefits for adults. Coverage varies. Some plans pay a percentage, others offer a lifetime maximum. Our team verifies your benefits before orthodontic care starts so you know exactly what to expect.
Ready for a Straighter Smile in Wilsonville?
Ready to see what braces can do for you? Book a free consult with Dr. Seth Senestraro at Senestraro Family Ortho. You’ll receive a treatment plan designed for your goals and a clear pricing estimate at your first visit, with no obligation and no referral needed.
Our Wilsonville office serves adults throughout Tualatin, Sherwood, Canby, and the surrounding communities. We also welcome patients at our Portland, Sherwood, and Tualatin locations, giving you four convenient places to receive your orthodontic care.
Schedule online in under 60 seconds or call our team today at (503) 582-8212. New adult patients are always welcome, and weโd love to help you take the next step.