A straighter, healthier smile is possible at any age. At Metrotown Orthodontics, we provide customized adult braces in Burnaby to help adults improve their smile, correct bite concerns, and achieve better long-term oral health.

Many adults believe orthodontic treatment is only for teenagers, but more adults than ever are choosing braces and clear aligners to enhance their confidence and improve their dental health.

Whether you never had orthodontic treatment as a child, your teeth shifted over time, or you simply want a healthier smile, our orthodontic team can create a treatment plan designed around your lifestyle and goals.

Why Are More Adults Choosing Braces?

Orthodontic treatment has changed significantly over the years. Today’s braces are more comfortable, discreet, and effective than previous generations.

Adults choose orthodontic treatment for many reasons, including:

  • Improving the appearance of their smile
  • Correcting crowded or crooked teeth
  • Fixing bite problems
  • Improving oral hygiene
  • Preventing future dental issues
  • Increasing confidence in personal and professional settings

A healthy smile is an investment that can provide benefits for many years

Can Adults Get Braces?

Yes. There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment.

Healthy teeth and gums are the most important factors when determining whether someone is a good candidate for braces. Many patients begin orthodontic treatment in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond.

Adult orthodontic treatment can help address:

  • Crooked teeth
  • Crowded teeth
  • Tooth spacing issues
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Crossbite
  • Teeth that have shifted after previous orthodontic treatment

During your consultation, our orthodontist will evaluate your smile and recommend the most effective treatment options.

Types of Braces for Adults

At Metrotown Orthodontics, we offer several orthodontic options depending on your dental needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

Traditional Metal Braces for Adults

Modern metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more attractive than older versions.

They remain one of the most effective options for correcting a wide range of orthodontic concerns, including more complex cases.

Benefits include:

  • Highly predictable results
  • Effective for mild to severe alignment issues
  • Suitable for adults of all ages
  • Customized treatment plans

Clear Ceramic Braces

Clear braces use tooth-coloured ceramic brackets that blend more naturally with your teeth.

They are a popular choice among adults who want a less noticeable orthodontic option while still benefiting from fixed braces.

Clear braces are ideal for patients who want:

  • A more discreet appearance
  • Effective tooth movement
  • A professional-looking treatment option

Invisalign Clear Aligners for Adults

Many adults choose Invisalign because the aligners are removable, comfortable, and nearly invisible.

Invisalign uses a series of customized clear trays that gradually move your teeth into alignment.

Benefits of Invisalign for adults include:

✓ Removable while eating
 ✓ Easier brushing and flossing
 ✓ Minimal impact on professional appearance
 ✓ No metal brackets or wires
 ✓ Comfortable and convenient lifestyle option

Learn more about our Invisalign treatment in Burnaby.

What Is the Adult Braces Process Like?

At Metrotown Orthodontics, we make the orthodontic process simple and personalized.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Your orthodontist will examine your teeth, bite, and smile goals.

Your consultation may include:

  • Digital imaging
  • Bite evaluation
  • Discussion of treatment options
  • Estimated timeline and costs

Step 2: Customized Treatment Plan

Every adult smile is different. We create a personalized plan based on your orthodontic needs and desired outcome.

Step 3: Active Treatment

During treatment, your braces or aligners will gradually move your teeth into their proper positions.

Regular appointments allow our orthodontic team to monitor your progress and make adjustments when needed.

Step 4: Retention

Once your treatment is complete, retainers help keep your teeth aligned and protect your investment.

How Long Do Adult Braces Take?

The length of adult orthodontic treatment varies depending on:

  • The amount of tooth movement required
  • Bite correction needs
  • Type of braces selected
  • Patient compliance

Many adults complete orthodontic treatment within approximately 12 to 30 months.

Your orthodontist will provide a personalized timeline after evaluating your smile.

Are Adult Braces Worth It?

Many adults find orthodontic treatment worthwhile because the benefits extend beyond appearance.

Adult braces can help:

Improve Smile Confidence

A straighter smile can positively impact confidence in social, personal, and professional situations.

Improve Oral Hygiene

Straight teeth are often easier to brush and floss, helping support healthier gums and teeth.

Create a Healthier Bite

Proper alignment can improve how your teeth function together and reduce uneven pressure on certain teeth.

Support Long-Term Dental Health

Correcting orthodontic problems may help reduce issues associated with tooth wear, crowding, and difficult-to-clean areas.

Why Choose Metrotown Orthodontics for Adult Braces?

Choosing an orthodontist is an important decision. At Metrotown Orthodontics, we provide personalized orthodontic care focused on comfort, communication, and achieving predictable results.

Our adult patients appreciate:

  • Experienced orthodontic specialists
  • Customized treatment recommendations
  • Modern orthodontic technology
  • Convenient Burnaby location
  • Treatment options designed for busy adult lifestyles
  • A friendly and supportive team

We understand that adults have unique needs, and we work with you to create a treatment experience that fits your schedule and goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces

Yes. Adults can achieve excellent results with orthodontic treatment. Teeth can be moved at any age as long as your teeth and gums are healthy.

Both Invisalign and braces can provide excellent results. Invisalign may be preferred by adults who want a removable and more discreet option, while braces may be recommended for certain orthodontic concerns.

Adults and teenagers generally experience similar levels of adjustment discomfort. Most patients describe it as mild pressure or soreness that improves after a few days.
Yes. Many adults seek orthodontic treatment again because teeth can shift over time, especially if retainers were not worn consistently.

The cost depends on your specific orthodontic needs, treatment length, and appliance choice. A consultation is the best way to receive accurate pricing information.

Absolutely! Crooked or misaligned teeth look unsightly, which in many cases leads to poor self esteem and a lack of self confidence. Aside from poor aesthetics, improperly aligned teeth can also cause difficulties biting, chewing and articulating clearly. Generally speaking, orthodontists agree that straight teeth tend to be healthier teeth.

Straight teeth offer a multitude of health and dental benefits including:

  • Reduction in general tooth decay
  • Decreased likelihood of developing periodontal disease
  • Decreased likelihood of tooth injury
  • Reduction in digestive disorders

Fortunately, orthodontic braces have been adapted and modified to make them more convenient for adults.  There are now a wide range of fixed and removable orthodontic devices available, depending on the precise classification of the malocclusion.

The most common types of malocclusion are underbite (lower teeth protrude further than upper teeth), overbite (upper teeth protrude further than lower teeth) and overcrowding, where there is insufficient space on the arches to accommodate the full complement of adult teeth.

Prior to recommending specific orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist will recommend treatment of any pre-existing dental conditions such as gum disease, excess plaque and tooth decay.  Orthodontic braces can greatly exacerbate any or all of these conditions.

The following are some of the most popular orthodontic braces for adults:

  • Traditional braces – These braces are strong and tend not to stain the teeth.  They are comprised of individual brackets which are cemented to each tooth and accompanied by an archwire which constantly asserts gentle pressure on the teeth.  Traditional braces are generally metal but are also available in a clear synthetic material and “tooth colored” ceramic.  The ceramic brackets are generally more comfortable than the metal alternative, but can become discolored by coffee, wine, smoking and certain foods.
  • Invisalign® – Invisalign aligners are favored by many adults because they are both removable and invisible to onlookers.  Invisalign® aligners are clear trays, and should be worn for the recommended amount of time each day for the quickest results.  Invisalign® aligners are more comfortable and less obtrusive than traditional braces, but also tend to be more costly.  Not all patients are candidates for Invisalign®.
  • Lingual braces – These appliances are usually metal and fixed on the tongue side of the teeth, therefore not seen when a patient smiles.  Lingual braces tend to be moderately expensive and in some cases, can interfere with normal speech.

If you have any questions about orthodontic braces, please contact our office.

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