What Are Braces for Adults? Your Cleveland, TN Guide
Adult braces are orthodontic appliances that straighten teeth, correct bite issues, and improve oral health for patients over 18. At Smile More in Cleveland, TN, our docs help busy adults get smiles they actually want to show off, with treatment options that fit their lifestyle. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, adult orthodontic treatment has grown significantly over the past decade, and today roughly 1 in 3 orthodontic patients is over 18.
You might think braces are just for teenagers, but that’s far from the truth. Maybe you never had braces as a kid. Maybe your teeth have shifted over time. Or maybe you’re ready to finally address something that’s bothered you for years. Whatever brought you here, it’s never too late to get started. Adults are choosing orthodontic care in record numbers, and the technology has caught up to make treatment more comfortable and efficient than ever.
Our practice offers both metal braces and clear braces for adults in Cleveland, TN. Metal braces are smaller, less noticeable, and more comfortable than they used to be. Clear braces provide an excellent option for adults who want a more discreet look during treatment. Here’s how metal braces and clear braces compare for adult patients at Smile More:
| Metal Braces | Clear Braces | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Small, low-profile metal brackets | Tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend in |
| Comfort | Smooth, rounded edges | Similar comfort to metal braces |
| Best For | Adults who want reliable, efficient results | Adults who prefer a less noticeable look |
| Cost | Typically the most affordable option | Slightly higher than metal braces |
During your free consult, our team will help you figure out which option works best for your goals and lifestyle.
Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult in Cleveland, TN
At Smile More, adult braces improve oral health, relieve jaw discomfort, prevent costly dental work down the road, and boost confidence in professional and social settings. The benefits go well beyond appearance.
Here’s a quick look at what adult braces can do for you:
- Straighter teeth that are easier to brush and floss
- Relief from jaw pain and chronic headaches
- Protection against uneven wear, chips, and cracks
- A more confident smile in work and social settings
- Lower risk of needing expensive dental work later
When you feel good about your smile, it shows. Whether you’re presenting in a meeting, laughing with friends at dinner, or just catching your reflection on the way out the door, that confidence is hard to fake.
Better oral health starts with straighter teeth
Crowded or misaligned teeth create hard-to-reach spaces where plaque builds up. Over time, this leads to cavities, gum disease, and other issues. When your teeth are properly aligned, brushing and flossing become far more effective. Adults who straighten their teeth often notice their dental checkups go more smoothly, too.
Your bite affects more than you might realize
An improper bite can cause:
- TMJ and jaw pain that flares up daily
- Chronic headaches, even ones that don’t seem connected to your teeth
- Uneven wear that slowly weakens your enamel
- Trouble chewing certain foods, which can quietly limit your diet
Correcting these issues with braces can relieve symptoms you may have been dealing with for years.
Think of braces as an investment
The cost of straighter teeth now often prevents more expensive dental work later. Teeth that fit together properly are less likely to chip, crack, or require crowns and other restorations.
Today’s brackets are much smaller than they used to be, and the wires work more gently. Many adults are surprised by how manageable treatment actually is, and how quickly they stop noticing the braces are even there.
The Adult Braces Process at Smile More in Cleveland, TN
We make it easy to get started with adult braces at our Cleveland, TN office. Here’s what you can expect:
Step 1: Your Free Consult
Your first visit includes a thorough exam and digital imaging. We’ll discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and explain what treatment could look like for you. There’s no pressure and no obligation.
Step 2: Your Custom Treatment Plan
Maybe you need flexible evening visits. Maybe you work a client-facing role and want discreet brackets. Maybe your schedule only allows certain days. Our docs, Dr. Brad Jacobs and Dr. Kristen Jacobs, will build a plan around your life, not the other way around, and walk you through every detail so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 3: Same-Day Start
Ready to go? We can place your braces that same day.
Step 4: Regular Adjustment Visits
You’ll come in every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. These visits are quick (usually under 30 minutes) and help keep your treatment on track. Our team works with your schedule to find times that work for you. If something feels off between visits, we’re just a phone call away.
Step 5: Braces Off, Retainer On
When your teeth have reached their ideal positions, we’ll remove your braces and fit you with a retainer. This keeps your results looking great for years to come. We’ll also go over exactly how and when to wear your retainer so there’s no guesswork.
Most adult treatment takes between 12 and 24 months, depending on your specific situation. During your first visit, we’ll give you a realistic timeline based on your goals.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Adult Braces?
If you have healthy teeth and gums, you’re probably a good candidate. We see adults come in for all kinds of reasons, from crowding and spacing to overbite, underbite, and crossbite, and age is never a barrier. At Smile More, we’ve treated patients in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond.
Here’s a closer look at what each of those means:
- Crowding: Teeth that overlap or are pushed together
- Spacing: Gaps between teeth that affect appearance or function
- Overbite: Upper teeth that extend too far over lower teeth
- Underbite: Lower teeth that sit in front of upper teeth
- Crossbite: Upper and lower teeth that don’t align properly when biting
Had braces as a teenager but your teeth have shifted since then? You’re not alone. It happens more than you’d think. Orthodontic relapse is common, especially if retainers weren’t worn consistently. Retreatment can get your smile back where it belongs, often in less time than your original treatment took.
Not sure which option is right for you? Your free consult at Smile More in Cleveland, TN will answer that question. We’ll examine your teeth, discuss your preferences, and recommend whether metal braces or clear braces would best meet your needs.
Why Cleveland, TN Adults Choose Smile More
People of all ages trust Smile More for their orthodontic care, and adult patients often tell us they appreciate how different our approach feels compared to what they expected. Our docs lead a team with years of specialized training in orthodontics, and that experience shows in every visit.
Busy schedule? We get it
Adults juggle work, family, and countless other responsibilities. Our team makes treatment as convenient as possible with flexible visit times and efficient visits.
Your free consult takes the mystery out of the whole process. You’ll leave knowing exactly what treatment would involve, how long it would take, and what it would cost. We’ll break down every cost upfront so you know exactly where your money goes. And if you want to explore numbers before you come in, our payment calculator helps you understand your flexible payment plan options ahead of time.
We use digital imaging and 3D treatment planning to map out precise, efficient results. That means you spend less time in braces and more time enjoying your new smile. Finances shouldn’t stand in the way of the smile you want, which is why we offer flexible payment plans and financing options that make treatment affordable for real-life budgets.
Our Cleveland, TN office is designed to feel welcoming, not clinical. We know the confidence of an amazing smile lasts a lifetime, and we’re here to help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces in Cleveland, TN
How long do braces take for adults?
Adult braces at Smile More in Cleveland, TN typically take 12 to 24 months. Some minor corrections wrap up faster, while more significant changes may need a longer treatment window. Your free consult includes a timeline estimate based on your specific needs, so you’ll know what to expect before you commit.
Are braces uncomfortable for adults?
Most patients feel mild soreness for a few days after getting braces and following adjustment visits. It’s completely normal and manageable with over-the-counter relief. Many adults at Smile More are surprised by how quickly they adjust.
Can I get braces if I have crowns or missing teeth?
Yes. Our team at Smile More in Cleveland, TN has experience working with adults who have crowns, bridges, and missing teeth. We’ll evaluate your specific situation during your initial visit and explain how we’d approach your treatment.
What is the cost of adult braces in Cleveland, TN?
Adult braces in Cleveland, TN vary in cost depending on the type of braces and the complexity of your case. Every mouth is different, so we provide a detailed, personalized estimate during your free consult with no hidden fees. Our payment calculator gives you an idea of monthly costs before you even visit, and we offer flexible payment plans and financing to help make treatment affordable.
Do adults need to wear a retainer after braces?
Yes, retainers are essential for keeping your results long-term. Without one, teeth can gradually shift back toward their original positions. We’ll fit you with a retainer when your braces come off and walk you through exactly how to use it so your smile stays put.
Does Smile More offer clear braces for adults?
Clear braces are a popular choice for adults who prefer a more discreet appearance during treatment. They work similarly to metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend with your teeth. During your free consult in Cleveland, TN, we’ll help you decide which option suits your lifestyle and goals.
Schedule Your Free Adult Braces Consultation in Cleveland, TN
It’s time to smile more. If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth, now’s a great time to take the first step.
Your free consult at Smile More in Cleveland, TN comes with no obligation. You’ll meet our team, learn about your options, and get answers to all your questions. If you’re ready to move forward, you can even get started the same day.
Creating convenient, affordable & confident smiles for busy people is what we do. Give us a call at 423.455.9741 or request your visit online today. Because everyone deserves to smile more!