Adult Orthodontics
in Bay Ridge:
It's Never Too Late
It’s never too late to love your smile. Many of our patients are adults, and with discreet options like clear aligners and clear braces, treatment fits easily into work, family, and everyday life. Dr. Costalos will listen to your goals, explain every option honestly, and create a plan that improves both the look and the health of your smile.
Adult Orthodontics
at Every Age
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids anymore. A healthy bite is as important at age 60 as it is at age 12. Your age is not a barrier to treatment. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Even though adults are no longer growing, tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone are healthy.
Orthodontic treatment later in life can dramatically improve your appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally important: crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, and abnormal wear of the enamel.
Good news: new techniques and appliances greatly reduce discomfort, shorten treatment time, and give you more options. During your initial exam, we’ll determine the best treatment for your individual needs.
Did you know?
About one in five orthodontic patients is an adult, so you won’t be the only grown-up in our waiting room. Whether you’re 25 or 75, you’ll be treated with the same care, respect, and attention to detail, and we’ll make sure your treatment fits your life, not the other way around.
Discreet Options
That Fit Your Life
You shouldn’t have to put your career or your confidence on hold to get the smile you want. Today’s adult orthodontics is designed to blend into busy, professional lives, from client meetings and presentations to family photos and special events.
Clear aligners: Custom-made, removable, and nearly invisible, aligners let you eat what you like and brush and floss normally. Most people won’t notice you’re wearing them. They need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day, so they’re best for adults who are ready to commit.
Clear braces: Ceramic translucent brackets made in Switzerland blend in with your natural teeth. Because they stay in place, there’s nothing to remember or keep track of, and they work around the clock.
We also respect your time. Visits are efficient and scheduled to fit your calendar.
Did Your Teeth Shift
After Braces?
You’re not alone. Many adults come to us because their teeth have moved since they had braces as a kid, usually after they stopped wearing their retainers. Teeth naturally shift throughout life, and it’s no one’s fault.
The good news is that minor shifting can often be corrected in a fairly short time, frequently with clear aligners. Once your smile is back where it belongs, we’ll make you new retainers and a simple plan to keep it there for good.
Working Hand in Hand
with Your Dentist
Straightening your teeth first can make other dental work simpler, more conservative, and longer-lasting. Orthodontics can create the right amount of space for an implant, upright teeth that have tipped into a gap, and even out your bite so crowns, bridges, and veneers fit better and wear evenly. Straighter teeth are also easier to clean, which supports healthier gums.
Dr. Costalos coordinates directly with your dentist and any specialists, sharing records and planning the timing together, so your care feels seamless. If your dentist suggested orthodontics, we’d be happy to talk with them about your goals.
Common Questions
from Adult Patients
Am I too old for braces?
No. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Before treatment, we check the health of your gums and supporting bone, and if anything needs attention first, we’ll coordinate with your dentist or periodontist.
How long does adult treatment take?
Most adult treatment takes about 12 to 18 months, and minor corrections can be much shorter. We’ll give you a clear estimate at your consultation.
Aligners or braces: which is better for me?
It depends on your bite and your lifestyle. Aligners are discreet and removable but require discipline to wear 20 to 22 hours a day. Braces work around the clock and can handle more complex tooth movements. Dr. Costalos will explain the pros and cons for your specific case and give you an honest recommendation.
Will I need to wear a retainer?
Yes. Teeth tend to shift throughout life, so retainers are the best way to protect your results. Most patients wear them full-time at first and then only at bedtime.
Can I get braces if I have crowns, implants, or missing teeth?
Yes. Brackets can be attached to most crowns, and aligners work well around many restorations. Implants can’t be moved, but we can plan around them, and sometimes even use them as anchors.
Does insurance cover adult orthodontics?
Some dental plans include orthodontic benefits for adults, while others limit coverage to children. Our team will check your benefits for you. Treatment is typically an eligible FSA/HSA expense, and we offer flexible payment plans.
Does treatment hurt?
You’ll likely feel some pressure or soreness for a few days after starting and after adjustments or new aligners. It’s very manageable with soft foods and an over-the-counter pain reliever, following the label directions.
Will treatment affect my speech or work?
Most people adjust within a few days. Aligners may cause a slight lisp at first, which usually fades quickly. Neither braces nor aligners should get in the way of your job.
Have More Questions?
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It's Never Too Late for a Smile You Love
Book a consultation, and we’ll talk about your goals, check your teeth and gums, and walk you through your options and costs. No pressure, just answers.