Straighten Your Smile at Any Age
It’s never too late to invest in a confident, healthy smile. More adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment, and you’re in good company if you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, roughly one in four orthodontic patients today is an adult. At Boller Orthodontic Arts, we serve adults throughout Dyer, IN with proven braces options that fit around busy work schedules, family commitments, and active social lives. If you’re drawn to traditional metal brackets, tooth-colored ceramic, discreet lingual braces, or Invisalign, Dr. Boller, DDS creates a personalized plan that works for you.
What Are Adult Braces?
Adult braces are orthodontic appliances that straighten teeth and correct bite issues in patients 18 and older. Brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by archwires apply gentle, steady pressure that gradually shifts teeth into proper alignment, giving adults a healthier bite and a more even smile.
Treatment for adults differs from teen orthodontics in several ways. Your jaw has finished growing, and your bone tissue is denser. This means teeth may move slightly differently than in younger patients, though many adults actually experience shorter active treatment phases than expected.
Types of braces available for adults
| Type | Visibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional metal braces | Visible | The most versatile option for complex cases; smaller and more comfortable than older designs |
| Ceramic braces | Subtle, tooth-colored | Adults wanting a discreet look without going fully invisible |
| Lingual braces | Hidden behind teeth | Professionals and patients who want completely invisible treatment |
| Self-ligating braces | Visible | Patients who prefer fewer adjustments; uses specialized clips instead of elastic ties |
Dr. Boller may recommend braces over Invisalign when your case involves significant bite correction, severe rotations, or complex tooth movements. Braces provide precise control that makes them ideal for challenging orthodontic needs, especially when teeth must travel longer distances or be rotated into very specific positions for an ideal final result.
Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult
Choosing braces as an adult brings rewards that extend beyond a straighter smile.
Improved confidence and professional appearance
Your smile is often the first thing people notice. Straight, well-aligned teeth can boost your self-assurance in meetings, presentations, and social settings.
Better oral health
Crowded or crooked teeth create hard-to-reach spaces where plaque builds up. Straightening your teeth makes brushing and flossing more effective, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Less pain and wear from a corrected bite
Misaligned bites can cause TMJ discomfort, jaw strain, and uneven tooth wear. Braces bring your bite into proper alignment, relieving pressure on your jaw joints and protecting your teeth from premature damage.
Improved daily function
Proper alignment improves chewing efficiency and can even improve speech clarity. Your teeth work together as they should.
Discreet options that fit professional lifestyles
Ceramic and lingual braces let you pursue treatment without drawing attention. Many of our adult patients in Dyer appreciate having choices that don’t interfere with their careers or social lives.
Long-lasting results
When you complete treatment and wear your retainers as directed, your results can last for many years. Skipping retainer wear is the most common reason teeth shift back, so consistent retainer use is what protects your investment over the long haul.
The Adult Braces Treatment Process
Getting braces as an adult follows a steady, well-mapped path. Here’s how treatment typically goes at Boller Orthodontic Arts:
Step 1: Consultation and Digital Records
Your first evaluation at our Dyer practice includes a thorough exam. Dr. Boller examines your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment. We capture digital X-rays, 3D scans, and photos to create a complete picture of your orthodontic needs. This appointment is also your chance to ask questions and share your goals.
Step 2: Custom Treatment Plan
Dr. Boller designs a personalized plan based on your records and preferences. You’ll discuss bracket type options, estimated timeline, and what to expect throughout treatment. Every detail is designed with intention, combining clinical precision and an artist’s eye.
Step 3: Bracket Placement
At your bonding appointment, we carefully attach brackets to your teeth and connect them with archwires. This process typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. You’ll leave with your braces in place and clear instructions for care.
Step 4: Adjustment Visits
You’ll return every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. During these appointments, Dr. Boller evaluates your progress and makes modifications to keep your treatment on track. Each visit is relatively quick, usually 15 to 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bracket Removal and Retainer Fitting
Once your teeth reach their ideal positions, we remove your brackets and fit you with custom retainers. Retainers lock in your results and protect your investment.
Typical adult treatment lasts 12 to 30 months depending on the complexity of your case. Dr. Boller provides a realistic timeline during your free consult so you know what to expect.
Are You a Good Candidate for Adult Braces?
Braces can address many orthodontic concerns in adults:
- Crowding: Overlapping or twisted teeth
- Spacing: Gaps between teeth
- Overbite: Upper teeth extend too far over lower teeth
- Underbite: Lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth
- Crossbite: Upper and lower teeth don’t align properly when biting
- Rotations: Teeth turned out of their correct position
Good candidates share a few characteristics
- Healthy teeth and gums. If you have active gum disease or decay, we ask that you address those issues with your general dentist before starting orthodontic treatment.
- Commitment to oral hygiene. Braces require diligent brushing and flossing to prevent problems during treatment.
- Willingness to attend regular appointments. Consistent adjustments keep your treatment progressing smoothly.
Many adults we see experienced orthodontic relapse after not wearing retainers following earlier treatment. Braces can correct this. Others come to us seeking proper tooth alignment for general improvement of their smile, bite function, and long-term oral health. Whatever brought you to consider treatment, Dr. Boller will listen to your goals and recommend the option that fits best.
During your free consult, Dr. Boller determines whether braces, Invisalign, or lingual braces best suit your needs and lifestyle.
Why Adults in Dyer Choose Boller Orthodontic Arts
At Boller Orthodontic Arts, every patient is treated like family. Every smile is crafted with care, precision, and artistry.
Specialist-trained expertise
Dr. Boller, DDS, MS completed advanced orthodontic training beyond dental school, giving her the specialized knowledge to handle complex adult cases with confidence. As a Northwest Indiana native and Lake Central High School graduate, she brings deep roots in the community to every patient relationship.
Full range of treatment options
We offer traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign. You get the right solution for your specific needs, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Advanced technology
Our Dyer practice uses 3D digital scanners and digital X-rays for precise treatment planning. No messy impressions, just accurate, comfortable records that make your visits faster and more pleasant.
Patient feedback also speaks for itself. Our reviews reflect the personal attention and quality results our patients experience day after day.
Convenient scheduling matters too. Our Dyer, IN practice offers appointment times that work around adult schedules, including early and late options for busy professionals who can’t step away during the workday.
Transparent pricing with financing
We provide clear cost information upfront and offer payment plans to make treatment accessible. As a true private practice, your care comes first. It makes a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces
How long do braces take for adults?
Most adult braces treatment takes between 12 and 30 months. Your specific timeline depends on the complexity of your case, including how much movement is needed and what type of bite correction is required. Dr. Boller provides a personalized estimate during your free consult at our Dyer practice.
How much do adult braces cost in Dyer, IN?
The cost of adult braces varies based on treatment complexity and the type of braces you choose. Ceramic and lingual options typically cost more than traditional metal brackets. Boller Orthodontic Arts offers payment plans to fit your budget, and we verify your insurance benefits to maximize any available coverage.
Do braces hurt as an adult?
You may experience mild soreness for a few days after your braces are placed and following adjustment appointments. This discomfort is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and typically fades quickly. Most adults find braces more comfortable than expected.
Can I get clear or invisible braces?
Yes. Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend with your smile. Lingual braces are placed behind your teeth, making them completely invisible to others. Dr. Boller, DDS helps you choose the option that fits your aesthetic preferences and orthodontic needs.
Will braces affect my work or social life?
Modern braces are smaller and less noticeable than older designs. Many adults wear ceramic or lingual braces throughout treatment without anyone realizing. After a short adjustment period, most patients forget they’re wearing braces during daily activities.
Does insurance cover adult orthodontics?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for adults, though coverage varies. Some plans cover a portion of treatment costs up to a lifetime maximum. Our team at Boller Orthodontic Arts verifies your benefits and explains your coverage before treatment begins.
What happens if I had braces as a teen but my teeth shifted?
This is common. If you didn’t wear your retainers consistently after earlier treatment, teeth can shift back toward their original positions. Adult braces can correct this relapse and give you a second chance at lasting results.
Start Your New Smile Today
You deserve a smile crafted with care, precision, and artistry. Dr. Boller and our team at Boller Orthodontic Arts are ready to help you achieve the straight, confident smile you’ve been wanting.
Schedule your free consult at our Dyer, IN location. We also serve patients from our Crown Point, IN practice. During your visit, Dr. Boller evaluates your needs, discusses your options, and answers every question you have about adult braces.
Call us at (219) 322-7645 or book your free consult online to get started on your new smile today.