You may have spent years thinking, “I should probably straighten my teeth someday.” Maybe someday became a new job, a wedding, raising a family, or simply wanting to feel better about your smile. The good news? You don’t have to be a teenager to benefit from orthodontic treatment.
Adult orthodontics has become increasingly popular, and there’s a good reason. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), about one in three orthodontic patients is now an adult. Modern treatment options can also be much less noticeable and more lifestyle-friendly than the braces many adults remember from childhood.
For adults across Asheville and Western North Carolina, orthodontic care can be a practical way to address both smile concerns and bite-related problems.
Why Is Adult Orthodontics Different?
The basic goal is the same at any age: properly align the teeth and jaws to create a healthier, more functional smile.
What changes is the patient’s stage of life and dental history.
Adults have fully developed jaws and may have existing dental work, previous orthodontic treatment, gum concerns, missing teeth, or years of natural tooth movement to consider. Because adult bones are mature, some cases may take longer to treat than comparable cases in children or teenagers.
That doesn’t mean you’re too old. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age when the mouth is suitable for orthodontic treatment.
Common Reasons Adults Consider Orthodontic Treatment
Some adults pursue treatment because they want a more confident smile. Others have practical reasons.
You may want to consider an orthodontic evaluation if you have:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- An overbite or underbite
- Difficulty cleaning between certain teeth
- Uneven tooth wear
- Teeth that have shifted since previous braces
- Concerns about chewing or bite alignment
The American Dental Association notes that correcting abnormal bites can do more than improve appearance. Proper orthodontic treatment may help address problems associated with tooth wear, oral hygiene, chewing, and other oral health concerns.
Adult Orthodontics: What Treatment Options Are Available?
One of the biggest differences today is the variety of treatment choices available to adults.
At TS Orthodontics, treatment options include Invisalign, traditional braces, ceramic braces, and other orthodontic solutions. The right option depends on your teeth, bite, goals, and overall oral health.
| Treatment Option | Best Known For | Lifestyle Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Braces | Treating a wide range of alignment problems | Fixed to the teeth |
| Ceramic Braces | A less noticeable braces option | Tooth-colored appearance |
| Invisalign | Discreet, removable treatment | Requires consistent wear |
| Behind-the-Teeth Braces | Less visible treatment | Attached to the back of teeth |
Not every treatment works equally well for every patient. A personalized examination is important before deciding.
Adult Orthodontics Fits Different Lifestyles
Let’s be honest: adults have different priorities.
You may have work meetings, family responsibilities, travel plans, social events, or a busy schedule that makes traditional treatment feel inconvenient.
That’s why today’s orthodontic options are designed with adult lifestyles in mind. Clear aligners can be removed for eating and brushing, while ceramic braces provide a less noticeable alternative to traditional metal brackets.
For someone working in downtown Asheville, commuting from Marion, or managing a busy family schedule in Rutherfordton, convenience can make a real difference in staying committed to treatment.
What About Oral Health?
A straighter smile isn’t only about appearance.
Crowded or misaligned teeth can sometimes be harder to brush and floss effectively. The AAO notes that untreated alignment problems may contribute to issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, abnormal tooth wear, and difficulty chewing.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also emphasizes that good oral health is an important part of overall health and that adults can experience cavities, gum disease, tooth loss, and other oral health problems throughout life.
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, is another reliable resource for evidence-based information about oral and craniofacial health.
Why Choose Us for Adult Treatment?
Choosing an orthodontist is about more than finding a convenient appointment time. Experience, diagnosis, treatment planning, and communication all matter.
At TS Orthodontics, Dr. Tim Scanlan is a board-certified orthodontist and the practice’s founder. He completed dental school at the State University of New York at Buffalo and later completed his orthodontic training and master’s degree at Mayo Clinic. He has practiced orthodontics in Asheville since 2009 and has helped more than 10,000 patients in Western North Carolina.
If you’re searching for an orthodontist in Asheville, Dr. Scanlan and the TS Orthodontics team provide personalized orthodontic care for adults as well as children and teens.
Local Orthodontic Care Across Western North Carolina
Getting treatment close to home can make orthodontic appointments easier to fit into your routine.
TS Orthodontics serves patients at:
| Office | Phone |
| Asheville, NC | (828) 270-7638 |
| North Asheville, NC | (828) 248-0582 |
| Marion, NC | (828) 408-0458 |
| Rutherfordton, NC | (828) 276-8479 |
Whether you’re heading to an appointment after work in Asheville or looking for care closer to home in Marion or Rutherfordton, having multiple locations can make orthodontic treatment more convenient.
Is It Too Late to Start?
Absolutely not.
Adult orthodontics can be appropriate for many people well beyond their teenage years. The important factors are the health of your teeth and gums, the condition of your bite, and your individual treatment goals—not simply your age.
Your smile doesn’t have an expiration date. If you’ve been putting off treatment because you think orthodontics is “for kids,” now may be the perfect time to learn what’s possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is adult orthodontics effective?
Yes. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Treatment may take somewhat longer in some adults because mature bone is denser, but an orthodontist can determine an appropriate treatment plan after an examination.
2. Can adults get Invisalign instead of braces?
Yes. Invisalign is one of several options available to adults. Whether clear aligners are appropriate depends on the specific alignment and bite concerns being treated.
3. Is orthodontic treatment only for cosmetic reasons?
No. While improving the appearance of your smile is a common reason adults seek treatment, orthodontics can also address bite and alignment problems that affect cleaning, chewing, and tooth wear.
4. How long does adult orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time varies significantly depending on the complexity of your case, the treatment method, and how well you follow your orthodontist’s instructions. A consultation is the best way to receive an individualized estimate.
5. Where can I get adult orthodontic treatment near Asheville?
TS Orthodontics provides adult orthodontic care at offices serving Asheville, North Asheville, Marion, and Rutherfordton, NC. Dr. Tim Scanlan and his team can evaluate your smile and discuss treatment options suited to your needs.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Adult orthodontics is no longer something you have to postpone until “someday.” With modern treatment options and personalized planning, adults can work toward a healthier, more confident smile while continuing to live their everyday lives.
If you’ve been considering braces or clear aligners, schedule a consultation with TS Orthodontics and find out which treatment approach makes sense for your smile.