Adult braces are orthodontic appliances designed to straighten teeth and correct bite issues in patients 18 and older. At Senestraro Family Orthodontics, we offer braces for adults in Portland, OR using modern options like traditional metal, ceramic (tooth-colored), and lingual (behind-the-teeth) braces. Today, a growing share of orthodontic patients are adults seeking care for fully developed bite concerns.
What Are Adult Braces?
If you thought braces were just for teenagers, think again. More adults than ever are choosing orthodontic care to improve their smile and oral health. Dr. Seth Senestraro and our team specialize in treating adult patients who want straighter teeth, better function, and renewed confidence.
If you’ve had crowding that’s bothered you for years or bite issues causing discomfort, we’re here to help. Our Portland, OR practice offers discreet braces options that fit your lifestyle and schedule.
Adult braces work just like braces for younger patients, but treatment plans take into account fully developed bone structure, existing dental work, and the realities of a busy adult life. That means we tailor each plan to your goals, whether that’s closing a gap, fixing a bite, or preparing your mouth for future dental work. Many adults choose braces because their teeth have shifted over time, or because they never had orthodontic care growing up. Whatever your reason, our team will walk you through every option in plain language.
Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult in Portland, OR
Adult braces offer real benefits: healthier teeth that are easier to clean, relief from bite-related discomfort, renewed confidence at work and in social settings, and discreet options like ceramic or lingual braces. With proper retainer wear, your new smile lasts a lifetime, making braces a smart investment for adults in Portland, OR.
Better oral health. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss. When teeth overlap or crowd together, food and plaque hide in hard-to-reach spots. This raises your risk of cavities and gum disease. Braces fix that.
Relief from bite issues. Misaligned bites can cause discomfort. Jaw soreness. Headaches. Uneven tooth wear. Adults often live with these symptoms for years without realizing orthodontic care can help.
Confidence in every setting. Your smile matters in job interviews, client meetings, and social events. Many of our adult patients tell us they smile more freely after care.
Discreet options that work for you. Ceramic braces blend with your natural tooth color. Lingual braces sit behind your teeth where no one can see them. You don’t have to announce your care to the world.
Results that last. With proper retainer wear, your straighter smile stays with you for life.
Supports your overall dental care. Better tooth positioning often leads to better outcomes for future restorative work like crowns or implants.
The Adult Braces Treatment Process
Getting braces as an adult is straightforward. Here’s what to expect at Senestraro Family Orthodontics:
Free consult and digital scan. Your first visit includes a thorough exam and a digital scan using our iTero scanner. No messy impressions. We’ll discuss your goals and answer all your questions.
Custom treatment plan. We create a plan built around your teeth, timeline, and lifestyle. You’ll know exactly what type of braces we recommend and why.
Bonding visit. This is when we place your brackets and wires. Plan for about 60-90 minutes. It’s comfortable, and you’ll leave with your new braces in place.
Regular adjustments. You’ll visit us every 6-8 weeks so we can adjust your wires and keep your teeth moving in the right direction. These visits are quick.
Removal day. After 12-24 months on average, your braces come off. We’ll fit you with a retainer to protect your smile.
Retention phase. Wearing your retainer as directed keeps your teeth in their new positions. This is the key to long-term success.
Free consult and digital scan. Your first visit includes a thorough exam and a digital scan using our iTero scanner. No messy impressions. We’ll discuss your goals and answer all your questions.
Custom treatment plan. We create a plan built around your teeth, timeline, and lifestyle. You’ll know exactly what type of braces we recommend and why.
Bonding visit. This is when we place your brackets and wires. Plan for about 60-90 minutes. It’s comfortable, and you’ll leave with your new braces in place.
Regular adjustments. You’ll visit us every 6-8 weeks so we can adjust your wires and keep your teeth moving in the right direction. These visits are quick.
Removal day. After 12-24 months on average, your braces come off. We’ll fit you with a retainer to protect your smile.
Retention phase. Wearing your retainer as directed keeps your teeth in their new positions. This is the key to long-term success.
Are You a Good Candidate for Adult Braces?
Most adults with healthy teeth and gums are good candidates for braces, including those dealing with crowding, spacing, bite issues, or relapse after childhood orthodontic care. A free consult is the best way to confirm whether braces fit your needs and goals.
You might be a great candidate if you have:
- Crowding or spacing between teeth
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite affecting your jaw alignment
- Healthy teeth and gums (we’ll address any periodontal concerns first)
- A history of orthodontic relapse from not wearing retainers after childhood braces
- Upcoming restorative work that requires better tooth positioning
Good candidates are also committed to keeping up with oral hygiene and attending regular adjustment visits. Consistency matters, and our team will support you at each visit.
Braces may not be the right first step if you have severe skeletal issues. In those cases, we might recommend a consult with an oral surgeon to discuss combined care options. During your free consult, Dr. Seth will look at your specific situation and give you honest guidance about what’s best for you.
Why Portland Adults Choose Senestraro Family Orthodontics
What makes our practice different? We treat you like family, not a number.
Trained specialists. Dr. Seth Senestraro is an ABO (American Board of Orthodontics) certified specialist and member of the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists). Alongside Dr. Seth, Zulma Rey supports our adult patients through every step of care. Together, our team brings focused training and years of experience to every adult case.
Technology that makes a difference. We use digital scans, 3D imaging, and low-profile brackets for more comfortable, efficient care. No guesswork.
Affordable payment options. We offer flexible financing and clear pricing so you can plan your investment with confidence. Use our online payment calculator to explore options before your visit.
Hundreds of positive reviews from Portland, OR adults who’ve changed their smiles with us. We’re proud of the relationships we build with our patients.
Convenient scheduling. We know you’re busy. Our Portland location offers visit times that work around your work and life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces
How long do adult braces take?
Most adult patients wear braces for 12-24 months. Your timeline depends on the complexity of your case and how well your teeth respond to care. During your free consult, we’ll give you a realistic estimate based on your specific needs.
How much do adult braces cost in Portland?
Adult braces in Portland typically range from $3,500 to $7,500 depending on the type of braces and length of care. At Senestraro Family Orthodontics, we offer affordable payment options and will review all pricing during your consult. We also work with most dental insurance plans and offer flexible monthly financing to make care fit your budget. No surprises.
Do braces hurt as an adult?
You’ll feel some mild soreness for a few days after getting braces and after each adjustment. It’s manageable with over-the-counter relief and soft foods. Most patients say the soreness is much less than they expected.
Will my insurance cover adult braces?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for adults. Coverage varies, so we recommend checking with your provider. Our team can help you understand your benefits, verify coverage before care begins, and make the most of every dollar available to you.
Can I get clear or hidden braces?
Yes! We offer ceramic braces that blend with your tooth color and lingual braces that attach behind your teeth. Both options give you effective care with a more discreet look.
Which is better for adults: braces or Invisalign?
It depends on your case. Here’s a quick comparison:
During your consult, we’ll discuss which option makes the most sense for your goals and your daily routine.
Schedule Your Free Adult Braces Consult in Portland
Ready to unleash your smile? Book your free consult at Senestraro Family Orthodontics. We offer same-week visits, and no referral is needed.
You can schedule online, call us at (503) 228-1945, or request a virtual consult if that’s easier for your schedule. During your visit, we’ll examine your teeth, discuss your options, and review financing so you have everything you need to make a confident decision.
Our offices in Portland, Sherwood, Wilsonville, and Tualatin welcome adult patients ready to invest in their smile. Request your free consult today and take the first step toward the smile you’ve always wanted.