Adult Orthodontics

It is never too late to get the smile you have always wanted. Today, one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21, and that number keeps growing. At David Ross Orthodontics, Dr. David Ross specializes in adult orthodontics across Hanover, PA, Lutherville-Timonium, MD, and Westminster, MD. Whether you are 25 or 65, board-certified orthodontist Dr. Ross creates personalized treatment plans designed to fit your lifestyle, your goals, and your schedule.

With over 20 years of experience, 2,055+ five-star reviews, and recognition as a Top 1% Invisalign provider in the United States, you are in the best hands for adult orthodontic care.

Schedule your FREE adult orthodontics consultation today.

Why Adults Choose Orthodontic Treatment

Adults seek orthodontic care for many reasons. Some missed the opportunity for braces as a teenager. Others had braces years ago but their teeth have shifted over time — a common occurrence when retainers are not worn consistently. And many adults simply decide it is time to invest in themselves and their smile.

Here are the most common reasons adults visit our office:

• Crowded or overlapping teeth that are hard to keep clean
• Gaps or spaces between teeth that affect appearance
• Bite problems such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite that cause discomfort or uneven wear
• Teeth that have shifted since the previous orthodontic treatment
• Preparation for dental work, like implants, crowns, or veneers, requires better tooth alignment first
• Jaw discomfort or TMJ-related issues linked to bite misalignment
• Confidence, wanting to feel good about their smile in personal and professional settings

Straight teeth are not just about appearance. Properly aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss, which reduces the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Correcting bite issues can also relieve strain on your jaw joints and reduce uneven wear on your teeth. Adult orthodontics is an investment in both your confidence and your long-term oral health.

Is It Too Late to Get Braces as an Adult?

No. It is never too late. Your teeth can be moved safely and effectively at any age with proper orthodontic care. While adult jaws are no longer growing the way a teenager’s would, the biological process of tooth movement works the same way regardless of whether you are 30, 50, or 70.

Treatment may take slightly longer for some adults compared to teens because adult bone is denser. However, the results are just as successful and just as lasting. Many of our adult patients tell us they wish they had started sooner — and that the process was much easier than they expected.

Dr. Ross develops a customized treatment plan for each adult patient, taking into account your dental history, any existing dental work, such as crowns or bridges, and your specific goals.

Treatment Options for Adults

At David Ross Orthodontics, we offer several treatment options designed to be effective, comfortable, and compatible with an adult lifestyle. During your free consultation, Dr. Ross will recommend the approach that best fits your needs.

Invisalign for Adults

Invisalign is the most popular choice among our adult patients. The clear, removable aligners are virtually invisible — most people will not notice you are wearing them. You can remove them to eat, brush, and floss, which means no food restrictions and no extra effort to maintain oral hygiene.

As a Top 1% Invisalign provider in the U.S. and a Diamond Invisalign Provider, Dr. Ross has the experience to handle even complex adult Invisalign cases with precision. Invisalign works well for crowding, spacing, and many bite issues. Treatment typically takes 9 to 18 months, with office visits every 10 to 12 weeks.

Invisalign is ideal for working professionals, busy parents, and anyone who wants a discreet treatment that fits into daily life without disruption.

Clear Braces for Adults

Clear braces use tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend with your natural tooth color. They work the same way as traditional braces but are much less visible. Clear braces are an excellent option for adults who need the precision of a bracket-and-wire system for moderate to complex cases but want a more subtle appearance.

Clear braces offer the reliability of proven bracket technology with a look that is appropriate for any professional or social setting.

Metal Braces for Adults

Metal braces remain one of the most effective and versatile orthodontic solutions available. Today’s metal braces are smaller, sleeker, and more comfortable than the bulky brackets of the past. They are the strongest option for complex bite corrections and comprehensive cases.

Some adults prefer metal braces for their durability and efficiency. Dr. Ross uses the latest bracket technology to deliver faster, more comfortable treatment.

Choosing the Right Option

The best treatment for you depends on your specific orthodontic needs, your lifestyle preferences, and your goals. Here is a quick comparison:

Dr. Ross will review your options in detail during your complimentary consultation and help you choose the approach that will give you the best results.

What to Expect as an Adult Patient

Starting orthodontic treatment as an adult is easier than you might think. Here is what the process looks like at David Ross Orthodontics.

Your Free Consultation

Everything begins with a no-cost, no-obligation visit. Dr. Ross will take digital scans and X-rays, examine your teeth and bite, and discuss your goals. You will leave with a clear understanding of your options, your estimated timeline, and your investment.

Beginning Treatment

Whether you choose Invisalign, clear braces, or metal braces, your first appointment is comfortable and straightforward. For Invisalign, you will receive your first set of aligners. For braces, we bond the brackets to your teeth in a single appointment, typically lasting about 60 to 90 minutes.

During Treatment

You will visit our office on a regular schedule every 6 to 8 weeks for braces or every 10 to 12 weeks for Invisalign. These check-in appointments are usually quick. Many of our adult patients schedule visits during lunch breaks or before work.

We understand that adults have busy lives. Our three office locations in Hanover, Lutherville-Timonium, and Westminster give you flexibility to choose the most convenient location for each visit.

After Treatment

When your teeth reach their final position, we remove your braces or complete your aligner series and provide retainers. Wearing your retainers as directed is essential for keeping your new smile in place for life.

Adult Treatment Timeline

How long does adult orthodontic treatment take? It depends on the complexity of your case, but here are general ranges:

• Mild cases (minor crowding or spacing): 6-12 months
• Moderate cases (crowding with mild bite issues): 12-18 months
• Complex cases (significant bite correction): 18-24+ months

Many adult patients are surprised by how quickly they begin seeing results. Visible improvement often starts within the first few months of treatment.

Adult Braces Cost and Financing

The cost of adult orthodontic treatment depends on the type of appliance you choose and the complexity of your case. At David Ross Orthodontics, we believe finances should never prevent you from getting the care you need.

We offer:

• Monthly payment plans starting as low as $129/month
• Down payments starting at $250
• No-interest financing options
• Flexible payment structures tailored to your budget

Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for adults. Coverage varies by provider and policy, but our team will help you verify your benefits and maximize your insurance. We also accept Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

Your free consultation includes a detailed cost breakdown with no hidden fees. Visit our pricing and financing page for more information.

Common Concerns About Adult Braces

“Will braces or Invisalign interfere with my work life?”

Most adults adjust quickly to orthodontic treatment. Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and will not affect your speech or appearance in professional settings. Clear braces are also discreet enough for meetings, presentations, and client-facing roles. Many of our patients say their coworkers do not even notice.

“Is treatment more painful for adults?”

Adults may experience mild discomfort during the first few days of treatment or after adjustments, but it is temporary and manageable. Modern orthodontic technology has made treatment more comfortable than ever. Over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods for a day or two are usually all that is needed.

“Can I get braces if I have crowns, bridges, or dental work?”

Yes. Dr. Ross has extensive experience treating adults with existing dental work. He will design your treatment plan to work around crowns, bridges, implants, and other restorations. In some cases, orthodontic treatment actually improves the longevity and function of existing dental work by creating better alignment.

“Can I play sports or exercise with braces?”

Absolutely. If you wear braces, we recommend a mouthguard during contact sports. If you use Invisalign, you can remove your aligners during athletic activities. Orthodontic treatment should not limit your active lifestyle.