Adult braces are orthodontic appliances that use brackets and wires to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. At Shannon Orthodontics, we offer braces for adults in Kissimmee FL who want straighter teeth, better bite function, and a healthier smile. It’s never too late to invest in your smile.
What Are Adult Braces?
The brackets bond to the front of each tooth, and a thin archwire connects them. Over time, gentle pressure guides your teeth into their new positions. Adults today have more choices than ever before. You can pick from traditional metal braces, clear ceramic brackets, gold brackets, or sleek mini metal options that blend in more naturally.
Based out of our Davenport practice, our orthodontists work with adult patients of all ages from Kissimmee and the surrounding communities. Whether you’ve put off treatment for decades or never had the chance as a teen, our team can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
What Are the Benefits of Adult Braces?
Adult braces improve your oral health, bite function, and confidence at any age. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, which lowers cavity and gum disease risk. Properly aligned teeth also correct bite problems, reduce uneven tooth wear, and make chewing and speaking easier. Many adults simply feel better about their smile once treatment wraps up.
Here are the main benefits adult patients notice:
- Easier cleaning and better oral health. Straight teeth are simpler to brush and floss, which lowers your risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Corrected bite issues. Braces fix overbites, underbites, crossbites, crowding, gaps, and jaw alignment problems.
- Reduced tooth wear. A balanced bite spreads pressure evenly, preventing uneven wear and chips on certain teeth.
- Improved chewing and speech. Properly aligned teeth make it easier to chew food and speak clearly.
- A boost in confidence. Many adult patients tell us they smile more freely once treatment is complete.
Modern braces are also more comfortable and discreet than the bulky versions you may remember. Brackets are smaller, wires are more efficient, and clear ceramic options make treatment less noticeable at work or social events. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, a large share of orthodontic patients today are adults, showing just how common adult treatment has become.
The Adult Braces Process in Kissimmee at Shannon Orthodontics
The adult braces process at Shannon Orthodontics follows four main steps: a complimentary new patient exam with digital imaging, custom bracket placement, regular adjustments every 4-8 weeks, and final braces removal with retainer fitting. Most adult treatment lasts 12-36 months depending on the complexity of your case. Patients from Kissimmee travel a short distance to our nearby Davenport practice for each of these visits.
Here’s what to expect at each stage:
Step 1: Complimentary New Patient Exam
Your first visit includes a thorough exam and digital scans. Our orthodontists review your bite, tooth position, and oral health, then map out a treatment plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.
Step 2: Bracket Placement Appointment
At your placement appointment, we carefully bond each bracket to your teeth and thread the archwire. This visit typically takes 1-2 hours, and you’ll leave with braces in place.
Step 3: Regular Adjustments
Plan to return to our practice every 4-8 weeks for adjustments. During these short visits, we change wires, tighten components, and track your progress. These steady check-ins keep your teeth moving safely.
Step 4: Braces Removal and Retainers
After your teeth reach their final positions, we remove the brackets and fit you for a retainer. Wearing your retainer as directed protects your results for the long haul.
Are You a Candidate for Adult Braces?
Most healthy adults with crooked teeth, gaps, crowding, or bite problems are good candidates for braces. The best results come when your gums are healthy and any cavities have been treated. Braces can correct mild spacing issues all the way through complex orthodontic cases.
Your lifestyle also plays a role in choosing between treatment options. Some adults prefer the predictability of fixed braces, while others lean toward Invisalign for a more discreet look.
| Feature | Traditional Braces | Invisalign |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Visible (clear ceramic available) | Nearly invisible |
| Removability | Fixed in place | Removable for meals |
| Best for | Mild to complex cases | Mild to moderate cases |
| Maintenance | Brush around brackets | Clean trays daily |
| Visit frequency | Every 4-8 weeks | Every 6-10 weeks |
The only way to know which option suits you best is a complimentary new patient exam. Our orthodontists review your teeth, bite, and goals, then walk you through the options that make sense for your smile.
Why Choose Shannon Orthodontics for Braces for Adults in Kissimmee
Adult patients from Kissimmee choose Shannon Orthodontics for individual care in a fun and energetic office. Our practice sits in nearby Davenport, FL, just a quick drive from Kissimmee, so you get convenient access without a long commute. Dr. Chris Shannon, DDS and Dr. Tyrel Larsen, DDS, MS bring years of orthodontic expertise to every appointment, and Dr. Larsen is board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics.
Here’s what sets our practice apart:
- Multiple braces options. Choose from traditional metal, clear ceramic, gold, or mini metal brackets to match your style.
- Trusted credentials. We’re proud members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), Southern Association of Orthodontists (SAO), American Dental Association (ADA), and Florida Dental Association (FDA).
- Advanced orthodontic technology for precise treatment planning and comfortable visits.
- Flexible financial options so braces fit your budget.
- Free new patient exams and bilingual service, hablamos español.
We treat every adult patient like family, because that’s how we’d want to be treated ourselves. From your first phone call through your final retainer fitting, our team stays focused on your comfort, your results, and a smile you’ll be proud to share.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces
How much do adult braces cost in Kissimmee, FL?
Adult braces costs vary based on the type of brackets, length of treatment, and complexity of your case. At Shannon Orthodontics, we offer flexible financial options to make treatment affordable for our Kissimmee-area patients. Your complimentary new patient exam includes a clear cost breakdown so you know what to expect before starting.
How long do adults have to wear braces?
Most adult braces treatment lasts 12-36 months. Simple spacing corrections may finish faster. Complex bite issues take longer. Your orthodontist gives you a personalized timeline at your first visit based on your specific needs.
Are adult braces painful?
Adult braces aren’t painful, though you may feel mild soreness for a few days after placement and adjustments. This pressure means your teeth are moving as planned. Over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods help during the first week of treatment.
Can I get braces with crowns or missing teeth?
Yes, adults with crowns, bridges, or missing teeth can often get braces. Our orthodontists evaluate your dental work during your exam and adjust the treatment plan to work around restorations. In some cases, braces actually prepare your mouth for future implants or bridges.
Will insurance cover adult orthodontics?
Some dental insurance plans include adult orthodontic benefits, though coverage varies widely. Our team helps you understand your benefits and explore financing options. Many adults who visit us from Kissimmee combine insurance with our payment plans to keep monthly costs manageable.
What’s the difference between braces and Invisalign for adults?
Braces use fixed brackets and wires to move teeth, while Invisalign uses a series of removable clear trays. Braces handle a wider range of complex cases, and Invisalign offers a discreet look with the freedom to remove trays for meals. Both work well for adults, and your orthodontist helps you pick the right fit.
Schedule Your Adult Braces Consultation Today
It’s never too late to love your smile. If you’ve been thinking about braces, the team at Shannon Orthodontics is ready to help you take the next step.
Call us at 863-353-6867 or book online to schedule your complimentary new patient exam. Our Davenport, FL practice proudly serves adult patients from Kissimmee, Celebration, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Poinciana, and Haines City. We are eager to hear from you!