Adult Braces: What to Expect During Treatment

More adults are choosing braces than ever before. Maybe it’s because of tooth crowding that has always made flossing feel like a struggle, or you’re one of the 12 million people who have temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) caused by a misaligned bite that puts uneven strain on the temporomandibular joints. 

For many people, the decision to get adult braces is about feeling better day to day. With better-aligned teeth, oral hygiene becomes easier, chewing causes less strain, and you develop a confidence that can only be supported by a smile you love to show off. 

If getting adult braces is something you’re thinking about, read on to learn what to expect during treatment with the best orthodontists in Sheboygan.

The Pros and Cons of Getting Adult Braces

Choosing between the different types of braces for adults often starts with imagining your daily routines and how each option might feel. Some people picture the steady pressure of traditional metal braces and decide the visibility doesn’t bother them, while clear aligners appeal to those who want something they can remove for meals or photos. Each choice comes with its own mix of visibility, cost, cleaning needs, and how well it works for your case: 

• Traditional metal braces: The most reliable option for complex cases of tooth crowding or bite misalignments. They move teeth efficiently, but they’re more noticeable and require extra oral hygiene care and avoiding some types of foods and beverages.
• Invisalign clear aligners: This option blends easily into daily life and can be removed for meals, though they work best for mild to moderate cases and require consistent wear as directed.

Before deciding which treatment option is best for you, your orthodontist will consider your gum health, bone support, and any past dental work before recommending the safest path. They’ll also take time to understand your goals and help match those priorities with realistic adult braces options. These conversations make it easier to compare your adult orthodontic treatment choices and choose the option that fits both your lifestyle and your budget.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment for Adult Braces

A consultation for adult braces feels less intimidating once you know what actually happens during that first visit: 

• The appointment starts with simple questions about dental and medical history, followed by dental X-rays or 3D digital imaging that show a clear picture of the teeth and jaw. 
• Your orthodontist will also examine your mouth to determine the health of your teeth and gums, and how any past restorative dental work is holding up.
• After the exam, you sit together to map out a treatment plan that usually includes how long the process might take, which type of orthodontic appliance best fits your needs, how often you will come in for adjustments, and what the overall cost will be. 
• Sometimes your orthodontic plan will include a little preparation work, such as addressing a cavity or treating gingivitis. 

Life During Adult Orthodontic Treatment: What to Expect Day-to-Day

During the first few days after getting braces or starting Invisalign treatment, you will most likely feel tender or awkward. Many people describe the early soreness as a deep pressure that fades away in a couple of days. Eating softer foods, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, and using a bit of dental wax where brackets rub can help ease your discomfort. 

As the weeks go on, you’ll get used to the fact that brushing and flossing takes a little more time. Small changes in your eating habits will also become second nature. Crunchy chips, caramel candies, and anything that snaps or sticks on the brackets and wires can be risky. 

Clear aligners will give you a slightly different experience, including the discipline to remove your aligners before eating and drinking, yet remembering to put them back afterward. Brushing your teeth after every meal, before putting your aligners back in, is also a habit that takes time to get used to. 

Life After Braces: Maintaining Your Orthodontic Results

After completing treatment, your orthodontist will fit you for a removable or fixed retainer and explain how often to wear it. Usually, you’ll wear it all the time at first and then only at night once things settle. This ensures that your teeth don’t shift away from their new positions. 

Finding the Best Orthodontist in Sheboygan for Adult Braces

When you’re ready for braces after years of feeling frustrated with how your smile looks or how difficult it is to keep up with good oral health routines, you need an orthodontic clinic with the knowledge and expertise to treat your concerns in the fastest and most efficient way. 

At Just Orthodontics, Dr. Ethan and Dr. Jeff combine four generations of orthodontic knowledge to create treatment plans that are steady and supportive. We take time to understand your goals, walk you through every step in clear language, and guide you with options that fit the way you live and work. Our on-time appointments and flexible scheduling at our Sheboygan and Manitowoc clinics also make it easier to stay consistent with your treatment progress.