One in four orthodontic patients today is an adult. At Blackburn & Williams Orthodontics, we treat hundreds of adults every year, ranging from professionals in their 30s and 40s who never had braces as kids to people in their 60s who finally want to fix a problem that has bothered them for decades.
If you have wondered whether it is too late, the answer is no. Healthy teeth move at any age. Modern orthodontics gives you options that are far more discreet, faster, and more comfortable than what was available when you were younger.
The three main treatment options for adults
Invisalign clear aligners
Most of our adult patients choose Invisalign. The aligners are clear plastic trays you wear over your teeth, switched out roughly every one to two weeks as your teeth move. They are removable for meals, brushing, and important meetings. From across a conference table, no one will notice you are in treatment.
We are a Top 1% Invisalign provider nationally and a Blue Diamond Provider, which means our doctors have completed hundreds of Invisalign cases. That translates to better treatment planning, fewer refinements, and predictable outcomes.
Typical adult Invisalign treatment runs 12 to 18 months for moderate cases, and 6 to 9 months for minor cases (Invisalign Lite or Express).
Ceramic or clear braces
Ceramic braces work like traditional braces but use tooth-colored brackets that blend with your enamel. Many adults choose ceramic when their case is too complex for aligners but they still want a less visible option.
Traditional metal braces
For some adult cases, particularly those involving significant bite correction or complicated rotations, traditional metal braces give us the most control. They are also typically the most cost-effective option.
Common reasons adults start treatment
- Crowding and crooked teeth that have shifted over the years (often after wisdom teeth come in, or when retainers were lost).
- Gaps and spacing that have always bothered them.
- Bite problems: open bite, deep bite, crossbite, or underbite causing jaw tension, headaches, or uneven wear.
- Pre-restorative orthodontics: aligning teeth before crowns, veneers, or implants so the final result looks right.
- Sleep and TMJ concerns that benefit from improving jaw alignment.
- Wanting to feel confident smiling in photos, on Zoom, and in person.
What your first visit looks like
Your first visit is complimentary. It takes about an hour and includes a tour of the office, orthodontic x-rays and photos, a thorough exam with one of our doctors, and a no-pressure conversation about treatment options and cost. If you want to move forward, you will leave with a clear picture of what your treatment plan looks like, how long it will take, what it will cost, and what your insurance will cover.
Cost and insurance for adult orthodontics
Most adult dental insurance plans cover some portion of orthodontic treatment. We accept all major PPO plans and will file claims directly. For patients without orthodontic coverage, we offer in-house interest-free payment plans that spread the cost across your active treatment period. Many of our adult patients set up automatic monthly payments of $150 to $300.
Schedule your free consultation
Call 281-769-3095 or use our contact form. We see adult patients Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Most adults like to come in over their lunch break or right after work.
Blackburn & Williams Orthodontics is a Smile Doctors-affiliated orthodontic practice led by Dr. James Blackburn, serving Katy, Fulshear, Cinco Ranch, 77494, and 77441 from FM 1463.
