Braces for Adults in Sacramento: Your Complete Guide to a Straighter Smile
Think you missed your chance for straight teeth? You didn’t. More adults in Sacramento are getting braces now than ever before. One in four orthodontic patients today is over 18.
Maybe you skipped braces as a teenager. Maybe your teeth shifted after treatment years ago. Or maybe you’re finally ready to invest in yourself. Whatever brought you here, the path to a confident smile starts with understanding your options.
This guide covers everything Sacramento adults need to know about braces. You’ll learn about treatment types, costs, timelines, and what makes a good candidate. Dr. Matthew Sanders, DDS, MS at Sunrise Orthodontics has helped hundreds of adults in the Sacramento area transform their smiles. Your turn could be next.
What Are Adult Braces and How Do They Work?
Adult braces are orthodontic devices that gradually shift teeth into proper alignment using gentle, consistent pressure. They work by attaching brackets to teeth and connecting them with wires that guide movement over 12 to 36 months, depending on case complexity.
The science is straightforward. Braces apply controlled force to your teeth. This pressure triggers your body’s natural bone remodeling process. Old bone breaks down on one side of the tooth root while new bone forms on the other. Slowly, your teeth move into better positions.
Adult treatment differs from teenage orthodontics in a few ways. Adult bones are denser and fully developed. This means teeth may move slightly slower. But it also means results can be more predictable. Adults also tend to follow instructions better, which often speeds up treatment.
Sacramento orthodontists offer several braces types for adults:
- Metal braces: Most effective for complex cases
- Ceramic braces: Tooth-colored brackets blend in
- Clear aligners: Removable trays like Invisalign
- Self-ligating braces: Require fewer adjustment visits
Braces Comparison Table
| Braces Type | Visibility | Treatment Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal | Most visible | 18–24 months | Complex corrections |
| Ceramic | Low visibility | 18–24 months | Moderate cases |
| Clear aligners | Nearly invisible | 12–18 months | Mild to moderate |
| Self-ligating | Moderate | 16–22 months | Efficiency-focused patients |
Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult
Straight teeth do more than look good. They change how you feel, how you eat, and how healthy your mouth stays for decades.
- Better oral health: Crowded or crooked teeth trap food and plaque. Brushing and flossing become guessing games. Straight teeth are easier to clean. Easier cleaning means fewer cavities and less gum disease.
- Reduced jaw pain: Misaligned bites put stress on your jaw joints. Many Sacramento adults with TMJ issues find relief after orthodontic treatment. Proper alignment distributes chewing forces evenly.
- Increased confidence: This one’s personal but real. Adults report feeling more comfortable smiling in photos, speaking in meetings, and making first impressions after treatment.
- Professional advantages: Fair or not, studies show people perceive straight smiles as more competent and trustworthy. Sacramento professionals in client-facing roles often cite career benefits.
- Prevention of future problems: Bite issues worsen over time. Teeth continue shifting throughout life. Treating problems now prevents more expensive fixes later. One cracked tooth from a bad bite can cost more than braces.
- Modern discreet options: Today’s braces aren’t what you remember from middle school. Clear aligners and ceramic brackets let working professionals straighten teeth without broadcasting it. Many Sacramento patients complete treatment without coworkers noticing.
Types of Braces Available for Adults in Sacramento
Sacramento orthodontic practices offer multiple treatment options. The right choice depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces remain the gold standard for complex cases. They’re smaller and more comfortable than older versions. They handle severe crowding, significant bite issues, and rotated teeth better than alternatives.
Cost in Sacramento typically ranges from $3,500 to $6,500. Treatment takes 18 to 24 months for most adults.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic brackets match your tooth color. From a few feet away, most people won’t notice them. They work like metal braces but cost slightly more.
Expect to pay $4,000 to $7,500 in the Sacramento area. Treatment time mirrors metal braces.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
Clear aligners are removable plastic trays that gradually shift teeth. You wear each set for one to two weeks before switching to the next. Sunrise Orthodontics offers Invisalign for adults with mild to moderate alignment issues.
Sacramento pricing runs $4,500 to $8,000. Treatment often finishes in 12 to 18 months for appropriate cases.
Self-Ligating Braces
These use special clips instead of elastic bands to hold wires. Fewer friction points mean potentially faster movement. Adjustment appointments are quicker too.
Costs range from $4,000 to $7,000 in Sacramento. Many patients finish in 16 to 22 months.
The Adult Braces Process: What to Expect Step by Step
Knowing what’s ahead makes the process less intimidating. Here’s exactly what happens from first call to final retainer.
- Initial consultation: You’ll meet with Dr. Sanders or Dr. Kim to discuss your goals. Digital X-rays and photos document your starting point. The iTero digital scanner creates a 3D model of your teeth. No goopy impressions needed.
- Custom treatment plan: Your orthodontist analyzes your scans and designs a personalized approach. You’ll see projected results before committing. This appointment covers timeline, costs, and payment options.
- Braces placement: The bonding appointment takes one to two hours. It’s painless. You’ll leave with your braces on and instructions for the first few days. Some soreness is normal as teeth begin moving.
- Regular adjustments: Every four to eight weeks, you’ll visit Sunrise Orthodontics for wire changes and progress checks. These appointments take 15 to 30 minutes. Sacramento patients appreciate our flexible scheduling for working adults.
- Braces removal: The exciting day arrives when your teeth reach their final positions. Removal takes about an hour. You’ll see your new smile immediately.
- Retention phase: Teeth want to drift back. Retainers prevent this. You’ll wear them full-time initially, then just at night. This phase lasts indefinitely but becomes second nature.
How Much Do Adult Braces Cost in Sacramento?
Adult braces in Sacramento typically cost between $3,500 and $8,000, depending on treatment type and case complexity. Clear aligners and ceramic options fall on the higher end. Metal braces offer the most affordable path to straight teeth.
Several factors affect your total cost:
- Case complexity: More severe misalignment requires longer treatment
- Braces type: Premium options like Invisalign cost more
- Treatment length: Longer cases mean more appointments
- Orthodontist experience: Specialists may charge more than general dentists
Insurance and Payment Options
Many dental insurance plans cover adult orthodontics. Coverage typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 lifetime maximum. Check your specific plan or bring your card to your consultation. Our team verifies benefits before treatment begins.
Sunrise Orthodontics offers flexible payment plans with no interest for qualifying patients. Monthly payments make treatment accessible regardless of upfront budget. FSA and HSA accounts can also cover orthodontic expenses with pre-tax dollars.
Think of braces as an investment. The average American spends more on coffee over three years than on orthodontic treatment. And coffee doesn’t prevent future dental problems or boost your confidence in every interaction.
Am I a Good Candidate for Adult Braces?
Age doesn’t disqualify you. Adults in their 30s, 50s, and even 70s successfully complete orthodontic treatment. Your teeth can move at any age as long as they’re healthy.
Good candidates typically have:
- Healthy teeth without active decay
- Gums free from periodontal disease
- Commitment to wearing appliances as directed
- Willingness to maintain good oral hygiene
Common issues braces correct include:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Teeth that shifted after previous treatment
Some conditions require attention first. Active gum disease needs treatment before braces. Cavities should be filled. Missing teeth might need replacement planning. These aren’t disqualifiers. They’re just steps in the process.
The only way to know for sure is a professional evaluation. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Matthew Sanders, DDS, MS to assess your specific situation. The exam takes about an hour and answers all your questions.
Adult Braces vs. Other Teeth Straightening Options
Adults have choices. Understanding the differences helps you make the right decision.
Braces vs. Invisalign
Both straighten teeth effectively. Braces work better for complex cases. Invisalign offers convenience and invisibility for appropriate candidates. Braces stay on 24/7. You can’t forget to wear them. Invisalign requires discipline. You must wear aligners 22 hours daily for results. Invisalign lets you eat anything. Braces have food restrictions. But Invisalign means removing trays before every meal and brushing before reinserting.
Sunrise Orthodontics offers both options. Your consultation determines which fits your case best.
Braces vs. At-Home Aligners
At-home aligner companies promise convenience. But they lack in-person supervision. No orthodontist monitors your progress or catches problems early.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends against unsupervised treatment. Complex tooth movements require professional oversight. What seems like a bargain can lead to expensive corrections later. Professional treatment at a Sacramento orthodontic practice includes regular monitoring, adjustments when needed, and accountability for results.
| Factor | Traditional Braces | Invisalign | At-Home Aligners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $3,500–$6,500 | $4,500–$8,000 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Supervision | Full | Full | Remote only |
| Complex Cases | Yes | Limited | No |
| Treatment Time | 18–24 months | 12–18 months | 4–6 months (claimed) |
| Effectiveness | Highest | High | Variable |
Why Choose Sunrise Orthodontics for Adult Braces
Sacramento has options. Here’s why adults choose Sunrise Orthodontics in Rancho Cordova.
- Adult-focused experience: Dr. Sanders and Dr. Kim treat adults daily. They understand your concerns about appearance, work schedules, and treatment efficiency. You won’t feel out of place in a waiting room full of teenagers.
- Advanced technology: Digital scanning with iTero eliminates messy impressions. 3D treatment planning shows your projected results upfront. Modern techniques often reduce treatment time.
- Flexible scheduling: Early morning, lunch hour, and after-work appointments fit professional schedules. We know you can’t disappear from work every few weeks.
- Judgment-free environment: No lectures about why you didn’t get braces sooner. [INTERNAL_LINK: Our team | /about/] focuses on where you’re going, not where you’ve been.
- Convenient location: Our Rancho Cordova office serves adults throughout Sacramento County. Easy access from Highway 50 means quick appointments during your day.
- Payment flexibility: Multiple financing options make treatment accessible. We work with your budget to find a plan that works.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces in Sacramento
How long do adults typically wear braces?
Most adult treatments take 18 to 24 months. Mild cases may finish in 12 months. Complex cases requiring significant movement can take up to 36 months. Your consultation includes a personalized timeline estimate.
Are braces painful for adults?
Braces cause discomfort, not pain. You’ll feel pressure after adjustments for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers help. Most adults report the discomfort is manageable and decreases as treatment progresses.
Can I get braces if I have crowns or dental work?
In most cases, yes. Brackets can bond to crowns, veneers, and other dental work using specialized techniques. However, the condition and location of your existing dental work affects treatment planning. During your consultation, Dr. Sanders will evaluate your specific situation and explain how any previous dental work factors into your treatment options.
Will braces affect my speech or work life?
Some patients notice minor speech changes for the first week or two. Your tongue adjusts quickly. Most Sacramento professionals report no effect on work presentations or client meetings after the initial adjustment period.
How do I care for braces as an adult?
Brush after every meal. Floss daily with threaders or water flossers. Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods that can damage brackets. Attend all scheduled appointments. Good compliance leads to faster results.
What if I had braces as a teen but my teeth shifted?
This happens often. Teeth naturally shift throughout life, especially if retainers weren’t worn consistently. Re-treatment is common and typically faster than original treatment since teeth have moved before.
Schedule Your Adult Braces Consultation in Sacramento Today
Your straighter smile starts with one appointment. Sunrise Orthodontics offers complimentary consultations for adults considering braces in Sacramento.
During your visit, you’ll receive:
- Complete oral examination
- Digital X-rays and 3D scans
- Personalized treatment recommendations
- Clear cost breakdown and payment options
- Answers to all your questions
No pressure. No obligation. Just information to help you decide.
Sunrise Orthodontics
Rancho Cordova, CA
📞 (916) 635-5717
Schedule a consultation online or call today. Evening and Saturday appointments available for busy schedules.
Adults throughout Rancho Cordova, Folsom, Citrus Heights, and greater Sacramento trust Sunrise Orthodontics for their orthodontic care. Join them.