Maybe you have thought about straightening your teeth for years, and now that the kids are grown or retirement has freed up your calendar, the question keeps coming back: is it too late? For most people, the honest answer is no. Healthy teeth can move at almost any age, and adult braces in Tamarac are a realistic option whether you are 35 or 75. At Parkland Orthodontics, Dr. Onni Franco, DMD, MS, welcomes adult patients from Tamarac and across the area. If you live nearby, our Tamarac orthodontist page is a good place to start.
Below, we walk through what matters for adults, the discreet options you can choose from, and what to check before you begin.
Healthy Gums Matter More Than Your Birthday: Check In With Your Dentist
Tamarac is a city where a little over a quarter of residents (25.9%, according to U.S. Census QuickFacts) are 65 or older, so it is no surprise that we hear “Am I too old?” so often. Age by itself is rarely the deciding factor. What matters most is the health of the gums and bone that hold your teeth in place.
Adult teeth move the same basic way younger teeth do. The difference is that adults are more likely to have crowns, bridges, implants, missing teeth or a history of gum disease. None of these automatically rules you out. They simply mean your orthodontist plans your treatment with those details in mind.
Before you start, it is wise to be current on your cleanings and checkups. Moving teeth relies on healthy gums and bone, so your general dentist should confirm that your gums are healthy and that any cavities or loose fillings are taken care of. Ask your dentist about:
- Your gum health and any signs of gum disease
- Planned work such as crowns, implants or bridges, and whether to time it before or after orthodontic treatment
- How often you should have cleanings while you are in braces or aligners
We are happy to coordinate with your dentist so everyone is working from the same plan.
Reasons Beyond Appearance
Plenty of adults come in because they want a smile they feel good about in photos. That is a perfectly good reason. Many others are thinking about long-term dental health. Straightening can help with:
- Your bite. When upper and lower teeth do not meet evenly, some teeth can take more pressure than others.
- Wear. Crowded or misaligned teeth can rub against each other in ways that wear down enamel over time.
- Cleaning. Overlapping teeth create tight spots where a toothbrush and floss cannot reach well. Straighter teeth are usually easier to keep clean.
Dr. Franco can talk with you about whether any of these apply to you. If you also have jaw discomfort, mention it at your visit so it can be evaluated.
Discreet Choices for Adult Braces in Tamarac
If you picture a mouth full of shiny metal, you may be surprised by how low-profile treatment can be today. Parkland Orthodontics offers three popular options for adults who prefer to keep things subtle.
Clear (ceramic) braces
Clear braces work like traditional braces, but the brackets are tooth-colored ceramic, so they blend in with your smile. They stay on your teeth the whole time, which means there is nothing to remember to put back in.
InBrace lingual braces
InBrace braces attach to the back of your teeth, so they are hidden from view when you talk or smile. They can be a good fit if you want fixed braces that other people will not see.
Invisalign clear aligners
Invisalign clear aligners are a series of removable, nearly invisible trays. You take them out to eat and to brush, so meals at the club or with the grandchildren stay simple. The trade-off is discipline: aligners only work when you wear them as directed for most of the day.
During your visit, our iTero 3D scanner takes digital impressions with no goop and can show a simulated preview of how your teeth might move in just a few minutes. It is a helpful way to picture the process before you commit.
Retainers Keep Your Results Where They Belong
Teeth naturally tend to drift, at any age. That is why the retainer phase is just as important as the treatment itself. Once your teeth are where they should be, Dr. Franco will recommend a retainer and give you clear instructions on how often to wear it. You can learn more on our retainers and appliances page.
Cost, Coverage and Getting to Our Office
The cost of adult braces in Tamarac and the surrounding area depends on your case and the option you choose, and Dr. Franco will explain it clearly at your complimentary consultation. We accept most PPO dental insurance, welcome patients without insurance, and offer flexible financing.
Our office is a short drive from Tamarac, on the west side of US-441 just north of Hillsboro Blvd in Parkland. Whether your week revolves around tee times at Colony West Country Club, your grandkids’ games at the Tamarac Sports Complex or an event at the Tamarac Community Center, our hours make it easier to fit in visits: Monday 8AM to 5PM, Tuesday and Wednesday 9AM to 6PM, Thursday 11AM to 7PM and Friday 8AM to 4PM.
Questions Tamarac Adults Often Ask
Can I really start adult braces in Tamarac in my 60s or 70s?
Many people can. If your gums and the bone around your teeth are healthy, age alone is usually not a barrier. A consultation is the best way to find out what is possible for you.
How long will my treatment take?
It varies; many cases take about 12–24 months. Your orthodontist will estimate yours after looking at your teeth and bite.
Will people notice I am wearing something?
With clear braces, InBrace or Invisalign, most people will not notice unless you tell them. Each option has its own trade-offs, and Dr. Franco can help you pick the one that suits your lifestyle.
Do I have to wear a retainer after treatment?
Yes. A retainer helps keep your teeth from shifting back. Your orthodontist will tell you how often to wear it and how to care for it.
It is not too late to have a smile you feel good about, and it costs nothing to find out what your options are. To schedule your free consultation with Dr. Franco, call us at 754-529-8995 or contact our Parkland office. Hablamos Español.