Adult Orthodontic Treatment in Southland and Queenstown
Modern, comfortable orthodontic care for all ages
Find your treatment option
Adult orthodontic treatment is a common and effective way to improve the alignment of your teeth and bite at any age. At Embrace Orthodontics, we provide specialist orthodontic treatment for adults in Southland and Queenstown, offering modern options designed to fit comfortably into busy lifestyles.
Whether you missed orthodontic treatment earlier in life or your teeth have shifted over time, our experienced orthodontic team will guide you through your options with clarity and care.
Why Choose Adult Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for teenagers. More adults than ever are choosing to improve their smiles for both functional and aesthetic reasons.
Adult orthodontic treatment can help with:
Crowded or crooked teeth
Bite issues such as overbite, underbite or crossbite
Teeth that have shifted after previous orthodontic treatment
Jaw discomfort or uneven tooth wear
Improving smile appearance and confidence
With today’s advanced orthodontic techniques, treatment can be more discreet, comfortable and flexible than many adults expect.
How Adult Orthodontic Treatment Works
Your adult orthodontic journey begins with a comprehensive assessment. We take time to understand your goals, assess your teeth and bite, and discuss treatment options suited to your needs and lifestyle.
Using digital scans and detailed records, we create a personalised treatment plan designed to achieve long-lasting results. Treatment may involve braces, clear aligners or a combination of approaches, depending on your orthodontic needs.
What to Expect from Your Adult Orthodontic Journey
Your Consultation
You’ll meet with one of our specialist orthodontists to discuss your goals and concerns. We’ll assess your teeth, bite and jaw alignment, then explain your treatment options clearly.
Your Personalised Plan
If you choose to proceed, we’ll take detailed records including photos, X-rays and a 3D scan. This allows us to design a treatment plan tailored specifically to your smile.
Treatment and Ongoing Care
Once treatment begins, we’ll see you regularly to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. Our team is always available to answer questions and provide support.
Retention
After active treatment is complete, retainers help maintain your results. Wearing them as advised helps keep your smile aligned for the long term.
FAQs
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
No, there is no upper age limit for orthodontic treatment. Teeth can be safely moved at almost any age as long as the gums and supporting bone are healthy. Many adults choose orthodontics to improve both the appearance of their smile and their long-term dental health.
What orthodontic options are available for adults?
Adults have several treatment options depending on their needs and preferences. These include clear aligners for a discreet, removable solution; ceramic (tooth-coloured) braces for a less noticeable fixed option; and traditional metal braces, which are highly effective for more complex tooth movements. Your orthodontist will recommend the most suitable approach based on your bite, alignment, and lifestyle.
How long does adult orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of the case and your treatment goals. Most adult treatments take between 12 and 36 months. Minor alignment may be quicker, while more significant bite corrections may take longer.
Will orthodontic treatment affect my work or daily life?
There is usually a short adjustment period as your mouth gets used to the appliance, but most adults quickly return to normal routines. Clear aligners are particularly popular with working professionals because they are discreet and removable for meals and important events. Braces may require some minor dietary adjustments and extra attention to oral hygiene but they are reliable way of moving teeth.
Is adult orthodontic treatment uncomfortable?
You may feel mild pressure, tightness, or tenderness after adjustments or when starting a new aligner. This typically lasts a few days and is a normal sign that teeth are moving. Adults sometimes notice this sensation more than children, but it is temporary and manageable with simple measures like softer foods and over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
Do adults need to wear retainers after treatment?
Yes. Wearing retainers is essential to maintain your new smile. Teeth naturally tend to shift over time, so long-term retainer wear, often at night, helps keep them in their corrected positions.
Is adult orthodontic treatment purely cosmetic?
Not at all. While improving smile appearance is a common goal, orthodontic treatment can also enhance bite function, chewing efficiency, speech, and jaw comfort. Straighter teeth are often easier to clean, which can improve long-term gum and dental health.
What happens if I’ve had braces before?
It is common for teeth to shift if retainers were not worn long term. This is called relapse. The good news is that retreatment is often simpler and shorter than the first time, as the main concern is usually alignment rather than major bite correction.