Discreet Orthodontic Options for Adult Smiles
It is never too late to improve your smile. Adult orthodontic treatment can help straighten crowded or crooked teeth, close spaces, improve bite alignment and support better long-term oral health. At Santa Monica Orthodontics, Rehana Khan, DDS, MS, provides adult orthodontics in Santa Monica, California, with treatment options designed for your smile, lifestyle and goals.
Many adults want orthodontic care that is effective but not overly noticeable. Depending on your needs, Dr. Khan may recommend Invisalign® clear aligners, ceramic braces, lingual braces or another orthodontic option to help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.
Call 310-393-3344 or request an appointment to schedule an adult orthodontic consultation at Santa Monica Orthodontics.
Why Adults Choose Orthodontic Treatment
Adults seek orthodontic treatment for many reasons. Some never had braces as children, while others notice that their teeth have shifted after previous orthodontic treatment. Some patients want to improve the appearance of their smile, while others want to correct bite problems that affect comfort, function or oral hygiene.
Adult orthodontics may help with concerns such as:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Spaces or gaps between teeth
- Teeth that have shifted after past braces or aligner treatment
- Overbite, underbite, crossbite or open bite concerns
- Difficulty cleaning between crowded teeth
- Uneven tooth wear related to bite alignment
- Smile concerns that affect confidence
During your consultation, Dr. Khan will evaluate your teeth, bite and treatment goals before recommending the orthodontic option that best fits your needs.
Adult Orthodontic Treatment Options
Adult patients have more orthodontic options than ever before. At Santa Monica Orthodontics, treatment is personalized based on your alignment, bite, appearance preferences and daily routine.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign treatment uses a series of custom-made clear aligners to gradually move your teeth. The aligners are removable, discreet and convenient for many adult patients. As a Top 1% Diamond Invisalign Provider, Dr. Khan has extensive experience planning Invisalign treatment for a wide range of orthodontic needs.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work similarly to traditional braces, but they use tooth-colored or clear brackets that are less noticeable on the teeth. They may be a good option for adults who need the control of braces but prefer a more discreet appearance.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are placed behind the teeth, making them hidden from most everyday view. They may be an option for adults who want fixed orthodontic treatment without brackets on the front of the teeth.
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces remain a reliable option for many orthodontic cases. They may be recommended when more controlled tooth movement is needed or when another option may not predictably address your bite or alignment concerns.
Invisalign vs. Braces for Adults
Invisalign clear aligners and braces can both help adults achieve straighter teeth, but they work differently. Invisalign aligners are removable and nearly clear, which makes them appealing for patients who want flexibility and a discreet appearance. Braces are fixed to the teeth, which can make them a better choice for certain complex movements or patients who prefer not to manage removable trays.
The best option depends on your teeth, bite, treatment goals and ability to follow the recommended wear schedule. Dr. Khan can explain the pros and limitations of each option so you can make a confident decision.
Adult Orthodontics for Relapse After Braces
Many adults notice that their teeth have shifted years after braces, especially if they stopped wearing retainers. Orthodontic relapse is common, and in many cases, it can be corrected with clear aligners, braces or another treatment option.
If your teeth have shifted, Dr. Khan can evaluate your current alignment and explain whether limited treatment or more comprehensive orthodontic care is recommended. After treatment, retainers will help protect your results.
Is Orthodontic Treatment Different for Adults?
Adult orthodontic treatment can be very effective, but it may require different planning than treatment for children or teens. Adults are no longer growing, and some patients may have existing dental work, gum concerns, missing teeth or bite issues that need to be considered before treatment begins.
Dr. Khan will carefully evaluate your oral health, tooth movement needs and long-term stability before recommending a treatment plan. If needed, she may coordinate with your general dentist or another dental specialist as part of your care.
Technology Used for Adult Orthodontic Planning
At Santa Monica Orthodontics, treatment planning may include advanced technology such as iTero digital scanning, CBCT/3D imaging when appropriate, digital photography and digital treatment planning. These tools help Dr. Khan evaluate your teeth, bite and jaw relationship with greater detail.
Digital scanning can also make the treatment process more comfortable by reducing the need for traditional impressions in many cases, especially for Invisalign and other clear aligner treatment.
How Long Does Adult Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Treatment time depends on your alignment, bite, treatment option and goals. Some adults only need minor tooth movement, while others need more comprehensive orthodontic correction. During your consultation, Dr. Khan can give you a more personalized estimate based on your case.
To keep treatment on track, it is important to attend scheduled visits, follow care instructions and wear aligners, elastics or retainers as directed.
How Much Does Adult Orthodontics Cost?
The cost of adult orthodontic treatment depends on the type of treatment recommended, the complexity of your case and the length of treatment. Our team can review your estimated cost, insurance benefits and available payment options during your consultation.
You can also visit our financial options page to learn more about ways to make orthodontic treatment more manageable.
Why Choose Santa Monica Orthodontics for Adult Orthodontics?
Rehana Khan, DDS, MS, completed a three-year orthodontic residency and earned a Master of Science in Orthodontics from Loma Linda University. She has over 20 years of experience as an orthodontic specialist and has treated thousands of orthodontic cases involving braces and clear aligners.
Adults often want treatment that is efficient, discreet and carefully planned. Dr. Khan combines advanced orthodontic training, extensive clinical experience and digital treatment planning to help adult patients choose the right option for their smile.
Whether you are interested in Invisalign clear aligners, ceramic braces, lingual braces or traditional braces, our team will help you understand your choices clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Orthodontics
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
No. Adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment as long as their teeth and supporting structures are healthy enough for tooth movement. Dr. Khan will evaluate your oral health before recommending treatment.
What is the best orthodontic treatment for adults?
The best treatment depends on your teeth, bite and goals. Invisalign clear aligners, ceramic braces, lingual braces and traditional braces may all be options depending on your case.
Can adults get Invisalign?
Yes. Many adults choose Invisalign because the aligners are clear and removable. Dr. Khan can determine whether Invisalign treatment can predictably address your alignment and bite concerns.
Are braces still worth it as an adult?
Yes. Braces can improve alignment, bite function and smile confidence for many adult patients. They may also make it easier to clean between teeth and maintain better long-term oral health.
Can orthodontics fix teeth that shifted after braces?
In many cases, yes. If your teeth shifted after previous orthodontic treatment, Dr. Khan can evaluate the amount of relapse and explain whether aligners, braces or another option is recommended.
Will I need retainers after adult orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Retainers help maintain your results after braces or clear aligner treatment. Our team will explain your retention plan once active treatment is complete.
Additional Adult Orthodontic Information
The information below can help you learn more about orthodontic treatment for adults and what to expect during care.
Orthodontics for Adults
Schedule an Adult Orthodontic Consultation in Santa Monica
If you are ready to improve your smile with adult orthodontics in Santa Monica, CA, Santa Monica Orthodontics can help you compare your options and choose the treatment that fits your needs. Dr. Khan offers discreet orthodontic options for adults, including Invisalign clear aligners, ceramic braces, lingual braces and traditional braces.
Call 310-393-3344 or request an appointment online to schedule your adult orthodontic consultation.