3/31/2026

Can You Get Braces as an Adult? What to Know Before You Start

If you’ve ever hesitated to smile in photos, covered your mouth when laughing, or felt self-conscious during conversations, you’re not alone.

Smile insecurity is a real issue, and it can quietly affect your confidence in everyday life. Whether it’s a job interview, a date, or just speaking up in a meeting, the way you feel about your teeth can shape how you show up in the world.

For many adults, that leads to one important question: Can you get braces as an adult? The answer is simple: yes! And more importantly, more adults than ever are choosing to do exactly that.

If you’ve been thinking about improving your smile, the team at Embrace Your Smile Orthodontics is here to help. You can call (661) 259-2388 to schedule a consultation and explore your options.

Getting Braces as an Adult Is More Common Than You Think

There was a time when braces were seen as something only teenagers wore. But that’s changed dramatically in the last ten years.

Today, adults of all ages are starting orthodontic treatment. Some never had the opportunity when they were younger. Others had braces years ago but noticed their teeth shifting over time. And many are simply ready to invest in themselves.

If you’ve been considering getting braces as an adult, you’re in good company, and you have more options than ever before right here in Santa Clarita and Valencia.

Why Adults Choose Braces Later in Life

The decision to get braces as an adult often goes deeper than just appearance.

Of course, wanting a straighter smile is a big part of it. But many adults also deal with:

  • Crowded or overlapping teeth that are hard to clean
  • Bite issues that cause discomfort or uneven wear
  • Jaw tension or headaches linked to alignment problems
  • Teeth shifting after not wearing retainers

There’s also the emotional side of it. When you don’t feel confident about your smile, it can hold you back in subtle ways—avoiding photos, limiting how openly you laugh, or even second-guessing yourself in social situations.

That’s why so many adults in the Santa Clarita Valley are choosing orthodontic care now, not later.

If this sounds familiar, it may be time to talk to a local expert. Call Embrace Your Smile Orthodontics at (661) 259-2388 to take the first step.

Can You Get Braces as an Adult at Any Age?

This is one of the biggest concerns people have.

Maybe you’re in your 30s, 40s, or beyond and wondering if you’ve missed your window.

The truth is: there’s no age limit for braces.

As long as your teeth and gums are healthy, orthodontic treatment can still work effectively. Teeth can move at any age—it may take slightly longer than in younger patients, but the results are just as real.

So if you’ve been asking yourself, “Can you get braces as an adult?” the answer is a confident yes.

And if you’re in central California, you don’t have to travel far to get started. Embrace Your Smile Orthodontics offers personalized care close to home.

What Are Your Options for Adult Braces?

Another reason more adults are choosing braces today is the variety of options available.

You’re no longer limited to the traditional look many people remember from middle school.

Depending on your needs and lifestyle, your orthodontist may recommend:

  • Traditional metal braces
  • Ceramic braces
  • Lingual braces
  • Clear aligners (like Invisalign)

Not sure which option is right for you? That’s completely normal.

A consultation at Embrace Your Smile Orthodontics in Santa Clarita or Valencia can help you understand the best treatment for your goals, lifestyle, and budget.

How Much Do Adult Braces Cost?

One of the first questions people ask is about price, and understandably so. Adult braces cost can vary depending on several factors, including the type of treatment, the length of time, and how complex your case is. 

On average, most adults can expect to pay between $3,000 to $6,000 total for treatment. However, the best way to get an accurate answer is to get a personalized quote.

At Embrace Your Smile Orthodontics, the team works with patients across Santa Clarita and Valencia to provide flexible payment options and guidance on insurance coverage.

Call (661) 259-2388 to schedule your consultation and get a clear estimate of your adult braces cost.

What Is It Like Getting Braces as an Adult?

Starting something new as an adult can feel intimidating, especially when it comes to your appearance. But most patients are surprised by how manageable the process actually is.

The first few days after getting braces (or starting aligners) can come with some mild discomfort. Your teeth are adjusting, so a little soreness is normal, but temporary.

The Emotional Impact of a Straighter Smile

It’s easy to focus on the physical changes, but the emotional shift is just as powerful. Many adults don’t realize how much their smile has been affecting them until it starts to improve.

Confidence builds slowly, then all at once. You may find yourself smiling more in photos. Speaking more freely. Laughing without hesitation.

For many patients in Santa Clarita and Valencia, this transformation is life-changing.

How Long Do Braces Take for Adults?

Most adult orthodontic treatments take somewhere between 12 to 24 months on average. Every case is different, but one thing remains the same: the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll see results.

If you’ve been putting it off, now is a great time to take that first step.

Are Braces Worth It as an Adult?

This is the question that really matters: Is it worth the time, cost, and effort?

For most adults who go through the process, the answer is a definitive yes. Because it’s not just about straight teeth. It’s about confidence, comfort, and long-term health. It’s about loving your smile. It’s about avoiding long-term pain from overcrowding or TMJ disorder from improper joint positioning caused by an extreme overbite.

When evaluating whether or not braces are worth it to you, you have to weigh the pros and cons in your individual case, but most adults who get braces do find them worth the time and money.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’ve been asking: Can you get braces as an adult? What is the adult braces cost? What is getting braces as an adult really like? 

You’re already closer than you think. The next step is to complete any prerequisite treatment. During your first meeting with Dr. Megan LeCornu, we’ll need to take some X-rays and molds of your teeth, and then help you determine an appropriate treatment plan. Recommendations may include some preliminary dental work before you get your braces, which can be an important step in making sure your orthodontic treatments are effective.

The next step is simple. If you’re in Santa Clarita or Valencia, California, schedule your consultation with Embrace Your Smile Orthodontics today. Call (661) 259-2388 to get started!

2 Locations

Embrace your Smile Orthodontics
23206 Lyons Avenue, Suite 206, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
(661) 259-2388

Embrace your Smile Orthodontics
27891 Smyth Dr. Unit A. Valencia, CA 91355
(661) 295-8288

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Pass it on! A brighter, healthier smile starts with the right information.

Santa Clarita 
Orthodontic Office

23453 Lyons Ave,
Santa Clarita CA 91355
Get Directions(661) 259-2388

Valencia 
Orthodontic Office

27891 Smyth Dr. Unit A,
Valencia, CA 91355
Get Directions(661) 295-8288

Lancaster
Orthodontic Office

1629 W Ave J
UNIT 108,
Lancaster, CA 93534
Get Directions(661) 295-8288

Office Hours:

Monday* 7:40 AM — 5:00 PM
Tuesday** 7:40 AM — 5:00 PM
Wednesday* - 8:00 AM — 6:00 PM
Thursday* 7:40 AM — 5:00 PM
(1st and 3rd Thursday of the month Valencia is open 12pm-7pm and Newhall is open 8am-5pm)

Friday** 9:30 AM — 5:00 PM
Saturday - Closed
Sunday Closed
*Valencia Office Only
**Newhall Office Only

The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute client relationship.
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