Should a 60 year old get braces? Your comprehensive guide

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, nearly one-third of all orthodontic patients in 2023 were adults, a number that has been steadily rising. So, should a 60 year old get braces? The definitive answer is that age is not a barrier to achieving a healthier, straighter smile, as long as your oral health is good.

Quick Summary

Getting braces after 60 is a common and viable option for improving dental health, bite function, and aesthetics, with healthy gums and bone structure being the key requirements. With modern technology offering discreet and effective treatment options, it is never too late to consider orthodontic care. Treatment may take slightly longer than for a teen due to increased bone density, but the results can be just as successful and life-changing.

Key Points

• Age is Not a Barrier: Orthodontic treatment, including braces, is effective for adults of all ages, provided the gums and jawbone are healthy.

• Benefits Extend Beyond Aesthetics: Straightening teeth in your 60s can improve oral hygiene, correct bite issues, and prevent future dental problems.

• Modern, Discreet Options Exist: Alternatives to traditional metal braces include clear aligners (like Invisalign), ceramic braces, and lingual braces.

• Individualized Treatment is Key: An orthodontist will evaluate your specific oral health to determine the best treatment plan, considering any prior dental work or health conditions.

• Treatment Time Varies: Adult treatment generally takes longer than for teens, averaging 18-36 months, and requires ongoing retainer wear afterward.

Can Orthodontic Treatment Be Effective at Any Age?

Orthodontic care has traditionally been associated with adolescence, but advancements in dental technology have made it more accessible and effective for adults of all ages. Orthodontic treatment relies on a biological process where bone tissue is remodeled, allowing teeth to shift into new positions. This process can happen at any age, as long as the supporting structures of the teeth—the gums and jawbone—are healthy.

While the process may take longer in adults due to denser bone structure compared to a growing teenager's, excellent outcomes are still achievable. The decision to pursue orthodontic treatment should be based on your individual needs and oral health status, not just your age. With many modern and discreet options available, the journey toward a healthier bite and more confident smile is a realistic goal for a 60-year-old.

Benefits of Braces for Seniors

For older adults, the reasons to consider braces often extend beyond cosmetic concerns. Addressing misalignments later in life can have significant health advantages:

• Improved Oral Hygiene: Crowded or overlapping teeth are challenging to clean, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. Straightening teeth makes brushing and flossing easier, leading to better long-term oral health.
• Better Bite Function: Misaligned bites (malocclusion) can cause uneven tooth wear, chipping, and jaw pain (TMJ disorders). Correcting the bite can improve chewing efficiency and alleviate discomfort.
• Preserving Jawbone Health: Correcting a bad bite can redistribute chewing forces more evenly, which can help preserve bone structure in the jaw.
• Preventing Future Issues: Addressing mild orthodontic problems can prevent them from worsening with age. Ongoing tooth shifting can lead to more complex problems over time.
• Boosted Self-Confidence: A straighter, healthier-looking smile can significantly improve self-esteem and confidence in social situations.

Potential Risks and Key Considerations

While highly beneficial, orthodontic treatment in seniors requires careful consideration of a few factors. An orthodontist will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine eligibility.

• Existing Oral Health Issues: Conditions like active gum disease (periodontitis) must be treated and stabilized before starting orthodontic treatment. Moving teeth in the presence of periodontal disease can worsen the condition. Similarly, existing restorative dental work, such as crowns or bridges, needs to be considered in the treatment plan.
• Increased Treatment Time: Due to denser bone and lack of growth, adult teeth may move slower. Treatment duration can range from 18 to 36 months, depending on the case's complexity.
• Orthodontic Side Effects: Common side effects include temporary pain, discomfort, and mouth irritation from brackets and wires. More serious risks, while uncommon, can include root resorption (shortening of the tooth roots), but this is carefully monitored by the orthodontist.
• Lifestyle Factors: Habits like smoking and conditions such as osteoporosis or dry mouth can impact treatment and should be discussed with your orthodontist.
• Compliance with Retention: After treatment, retainers must be worn indefinitely to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions. This is a lifelong commitment.

Types of Orthodontic Treatments for Adults

Modern dentistry offers more discreet and comfortable options than the traditional metal braces many people remember from childhood. Your orthodontist will help you determine the best fit for your needs and lifestyle.

Feature	Traditional Metal Braces	Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign)	Ceramic Braces	Lingual Braces
Appearance	Most visible; metal brackets and wires.	Virtually invisible; clear, removable plastic trays.	Less visible than metal; tooth-colored brackets.	Hidden on the back (tongue side) of the teeth.
Effectiveness	Highly effective for complex cases involving bite issues and severe crowding.	Effective for mild to moderate issues, including spacing and crowding. Not ideal for all complex cases.	Similar effectiveness to metal braces.	Very effective for a wide range of cases.
Comfort	Can cause initial soreness and mouth irritation from brackets and wires.	Generally more comfortable with smooth trays, though some discomfort with new aligners.	Similar to metal braces, can cause some irritation.	Can irritate the tongue and affect speech initially.
Maintenance	Requires careful brushing and flossing around brackets and wires; food restrictions.	Easily removable for eating and oral hygiene; no food restrictions.	Requires diligent cleaning; brackets can stain with certain foods/drinks.	Difficult to clean due to placement.
Cost	Most affordable option.	Often more expensive than traditional braces.	More expensive than metal braces.	Most expensive and specialized option.

The Orthodontic Process for Older Adults

1. Initial Consultation: The orthodontist will perform a thorough examination, including X-rays and imaging, to assess your oral health, jawbone density, and bite. A treatment plan and potential options will be discussed.
2. Addressing Pre-existing Issues: Any underlying dental problems, such as gum disease or cavities, must be resolved before starting orthodontics.
3. Treatment: Depending on the chosen method, this can involve fitting braces or beginning a series of clear aligner trays. Regular appointments for adjustments or new aligners are scheduled throughout the process.
4. Retention: Once the teeth are in their desired positions, a retainer is fitted to maintain the results. Wearing the retainer as instructed is crucial for the long-term success of the treatment.

Making an Informed Decision at 60+

Ultimately, the decision to get braces at any age is a personal one. However, the notion that you are “too old” for a straighter, healthier smile is a myth. For a 60-year-old, the potential benefits—from improved bite function and better oral hygiene to a boost in confidence—are substantial. The key is to find a qualified orthodontist who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and create a personalized plan that considers your specific oral health history. By doing so, you can make an informed choice that will lead to a better quality of life for years to come. For more detailed information on adult orthodontics, including finding a qualified specialist, you can visit the American Association of Orthodontists website. American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for getting braces?

No, there is no upper age limit for braces. Orthodontic treatment works based on the physiological process of tooth movement, which is possible at any age as long as you have healthy gums and bone structure.

Does orthodontic treatment take longer for older adults?

Yes, treatment for older adults can take slightly longer than for adolescents because the jawbone is denser and no longer growing. However, effective results are still very achievable.

Are there more risks for a 60-year-old getting braces?

Risks such as root resorption or periodontal instability are possible but uncommon and are carefully monitored by the orthodontist. Pre-existing conditions like active gum disease must be treated first.

Can I get clear aligners like Invisalign if I am over 60?

Yes, many seniors are good candidates for clear aligners, especially for mild to moderate cases. Aligners offer a discreet, comfortable, and removable option preferred by many adults.

What is the biggest difference between getting braces as an adult versus a teen?

The primary difference is that adults' jawbones are fully mature, which slows tooth movement compared to a teen's. Adults may also have prior dental work or health issues that need to be addressed in the treatment plan.

Do I need a referral from my dentist to see an orthodontist for braces?

While many dentists can provide a referral, you can generally schedule a consultation with an orthodontist directly. The orthodontist will work with your general dentist to ensure optimal oral health during and after treatment.

Is it worth the cost and time to get braces at an older age?

For many, the benefits of improved oral health, better bite function, and increased confidence make orthodontic treatment a worthwhile investment in their long-term well-being and quality of life.