A Comprehensive Guide from Orthodontic Specialist Dr. Begüm Ulaşan

You must have heard the phrase, "Braces are for children; it's too late for adults."

But the reality is quite the opposite:

1. At the age of 25,
2. 35,
3. 45, or even 55, adult orthodontics is perfectly possible and common.

In Bursa, orthodontist Dr. Begüm Ulaşan and her team at Milim Dental provide modern orthodontic treatments like braces, clear aligners (Aligner), and Invisalign to dozens of adult patients every day. Therefore, the answer to the question, "Is orthodontic treatment possible for adults?" is a resounding yes.

Furthermore, it often provides highly valuable results in terms of both aesthetics and health.

In this long and detailed article, we will explain, in an in-depth and SEO-friendly manner:

1. Whether orthodontics is possible for adults.
2. At what age and under what conditions it can be done.
3. Whether to choose braces, clear aligners, or Invisalign.
4. The most common concerns adults face.
5. Dr. Begüm Ulaşan's approach to adult orthodontics in Bursa.

1. Is Orthodontic Treatment Possible for Adults? Is There an Age Limit?

There is no absolute upper age limit for orthodontic treatment.

The foundation of orthodontic treatment is this:

1. Controlled, light forces are applied within the bone to move the teeth.
2. The tissue that responds to these forces is the bone and gum tissue surrounding the tooth.

In children, the bone is more elastic, and growth is ongoing; therefore, some jaw discrepancies can be corrected with growth modification.

In adults, growth is complete, but:

1. The bone is still alive.
2. Cells are still changing and renewing.
3. Teeth can still be moved with appropriate forces.

For this reason:

1. Anyone over the age of 18,
2. People in their 30s, 40s, or even 50s,
3. As long as their gum and bone health is at an acceptable level,

can receive adult orthodontic treatment.

In Bursa, Dr. Begüm Ulaşan often makes the following statement during her examinations:

"You are not too late for orthodontics; you have merely postponed it."

The real question is not "How old am I?" but rather, "Are my teeth and gums healthy enough for treatment?"

2. Why Has Adult Orthodontics Become So Popular?

Why has the demand for adult orthodontics increased so much in recent years? There are a few key reasons:

2.1. Increased Aesthetic Expectations

In the business world, on social media, and in daily life, the smile is much more prominent.

Crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth can affect a person's self-confidence and social interactions.

While many adults thought for years, "My teeth are just like this; there's nothing to be done," they are now taking action when they see alternatives like clear aligners (Align, Invisalign) and aesthetic brackets.

2.2. Advancements in Dental Technology

1. Digital impressions,
2. 3D planning,
3. Clear aligner systems,
4. Mini-screws,
5. More comfortable brackets

have made adult orthodontics both more predictable and more comfortable.

At Milim Dental, Dr. Begüm Ulaşan uses:

1. Digital scanners,
2. Clear aligner systems (Aligner, Invisalign),
3. Aesthetic brackets,

to make the adult orthodontic process more visually and emotionally acceptable.

2.3. Tooth Loss and the Need for Pre-Implant Orthodontics

One of the most important reasons for adult orthodontics is:

1. Tooth loss,
2. Shifting of spaces from extracted teeth,
3. Bite deterioration,
4. Need for alignment before implants and prosthetics.

Many adult patients approach Dr. Begüm Ulaşan saying, "I want an implant, but my teeth need to be straightened first."

Thus, orthodontics in adults has become a part of not just aesthetic but also prosthetic and surgical planning.

3. How Does Adult Orthodontics Differ from Childhood Orthodontics?

Naturally, a 10-year-old child and a 35-year-old adult are not the same when it comes to orthodontics. There are some fundamental differences:

3.1. Growth is Complete

1. In children, the jaw bones are still growing.
2. Jaw growth can be guided with functional appliances and some orthopedic devices.

In adults:

1. Growth plates cannot be used to "grow the jaw."
2. If the jaw relationship is severely compromised (e.g., the lower jaw is significantly too far forward/back), treatment combined with orthognathic surgery may be necessary.

Dr. Begüm Ulaşan often works with oral surgeons when evaluating jaw relationships in adult patients. While simply correcting the position of the teeth can provide aesthetic and functional improvement in many cases, a surgical-orthodontic combination may be necessary in some difficult cases.

3.2. Gum and Bone Condition is More Critical

In adults:

1. Previous gum diseases (periodontitis),
2. Bone loss,
3. Gum recession

can be common.

This does not make orthodontic treatment impossible, but it requires:

1. Softer forces,
2. More careful planning,
3. Collaboration with a periodontist (gum specialist).

At Milim Dental in Bursa, Dr. Begüm Ulaşan coordinates with the periodontology team to evaluate both gum health and teeth alignment simultaneously. This allows her to offer safe treatment plans to many adult patients who previously thought, "My gums are problematic; I can't have orthodontics."

3.3. Treatment Motivation is Different

1. Children often undergo treatment because their parents want it.
2. Adults start orthodontics by their own conscious decision.

This generally leads to better:

1. Appointment adherence,
2. Aligner usage discipline,
3. Attention to oral hygiene.

Therefore, adult orthodontic treatments can progress much more successfully than you might imagine.

4. When is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary in Adults?

Orthodontic treatment in adults is not only for aesthetic purposes. It can be necessary for a wide variety of reasons.

4.1. Crowded and Overlapping Teeth

1. Crowding in the front teeth,
2. Overlapping lower front teeth,
3. A mixed and "irregular" look to the smile.

These are the most common reasons for seeking treatment. They not only create an aesthetic problem but also:

1. Make mechanical brushing difficult.
2. Increase the risk of plaque buildup and cavities.

4.2. Gaps Between Teeth

1. Natural spacing (diastema),
2. Spaces from extracted teeth,
3. A "separated" appearance in the front area.

In adults, the gap between the two front teeth, in particular, significantly affects smile aesthetics.

Orthodontist Dr. Begüm Ulaşan can plan to close these gaps using:

1. Clear aligners (Align, Invisalign)
2. or
3. Braces treatment.

4.3. Bite Discrepancies (Malocclusions)

1. Upper teeth covering the lower teeth too much (deep bite),
2. Lower teeth being in front (Class III bite),
3. Open bite (the front section remains open when the teeth close),
4. Crossbite.

These conditions:

1. Impair chewing function.
2. Can strain the jaw joint.
3. May lead to tooth wear and joint pain in the long run.

4.4. Tooth Loss and Preparation Before Implants

A common scenario in adults:

1. A patient wants to get an implant in an area where a tooth was previously extracted.
2. However, the teeth next to the gap have tilted into the space over the years.
3. The opposing tooth in the upper jaw has elongated.

In this situation, there is no ideal bone or space for the implant. This is where "pre-implant orthodontics" comes into play.

In such cases, Dr. Begüm Ulaşan:

1. Moves the tilted teeth back with orthodontic treatment,
2. Ensures a proper space is created for the implant.

Then, oral surgeons in the same clinic step in to place the implant. Orthodontics thus becomes an integral part of implant and prosthetic treatment in adults.

4.5. Teeth Grinding, Joint, and Muscle Problems

1. Clicking in the jaw,
2. Jaw muscle fatigue in the mornings,
3. Head and neck pain,
4. Excessive tooth wear.

These symptoms can be related to bruxism and bite discrepancies. Correcting the bite with adult orthodontics can lead to a reduction in complaints by bringing muscle and joint loads into a more balanced state.

5. Which Orthodontic Methods Are Used in Adults?

The options for adult orthodontic treatment are quite broad. In Bursa, Dr. Begüm Ulaşan, at Milim Dental, usually offers the following alternatives to adult patients:

5.1. Metal Braces (Metal Brackets)

1. The classic and best-known method.
2. One of the most durable and controlled systems.
3. May be preferred, especially in very complicated bite issues and challenging cases.
4. The only disadvantage is that they are more visible aesthetically.
5. For some adults, the feeling of "I am wearing braces, and that motivates me" can even be an advantage, but for professionals with high aesthetic concerns, other options are preferred.

5.2. Aesthetic (Clear/Ceramic) Brackets

1. Brackets that are close to the color of the tooth and are less noticeable.
2. Aesthetically more acceptable, especially for the upper front teeth.
3. Frequently chosen by adults; they provide controlled treatment while being less conspicuous in photos and daily life.

5.3. Lingual Orthodontics (Invisible Braces)

1. Brackets are bonded to the inside (tongue-side) surface of the teeth.
2. Braces are not visible from the outside at all.
3. They are more difficult to wear and adapt to, and may not be suitable for everyone; however, they are a powerful alternative for some adult patients who desire near-zero visibility.

5.4. Clear Aligner Systems – Align, Invisalign, etc.

Clear aligners (Align, Invisalign) are among the most inquired-about and demanded methods in adults.

1. Clear aligners, custom-made for the teeth,
2. Are worn 20–22 hours a day,
3. Are removed for eating and brushing.

Advantages:

1. Almost invisible, highly aesthetic.
2. Because they are removable, eating, drinking, and brushing are very comfortable.
3. Provides great convenience for adults with busy professional and social lives.

In suitable cases, Dr. Begüm Ulaşan in Bursa:

1. Uses Invisalign and other aligner systems,
2. Offers a braceless, transparent, and comfortable adult orthodontic process.

However, the key point that must always be underlined is:

Invisalign and other clear aligner systems are "tools." The success of the treatment depends on the knowledge and experience of the orthodontist who plans the treatment.

6. How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take in Adults?

This question is one of the first three that every adult asks.

It is impossible to give an exact duration because:

1. The severity of the crowding,
2. The degree of the bite discrepancy,
3. The condition of the gums and bone,
4. The type of method used (braces or clear aligner),
5. The patient's adherence to appointments and usage instructions

all affect the treatment duration.

In general, adult orthodontic treatments can last:

1. 6–12 months for simple cases,
2. 12–18 months for moderately difficult cases,
3. 18–24 months or more for complex and multi-faceted cases.

In the initial examination, Dr. Begüm Ulaşan explains:

1. The estimated duration,
2. The method to be used,
3. What to expect during the process,

in quite detail. This is crucial for adult patients to feel secure.

7. The Biggest Fears of Adults: Pain, Aesthetics, Work Life

7.1. "Will it hurt a lot?"

A mild to moderate level of pain or pressure is normal in orthodontic treatment, especially in the first few days after placement or after wire/aligner changes. This usually lasts for a few days and can be controlled with simple painkillers.

The pain threshold varies from person to person in adults; however, in Dr. Begüm Ulaşan's practice, a situation defined as "unbearable pain" is extremely rare.

7.2. "Will I have difficulties in my professional life?"

Most adults who use clear aligners (Align/Invisalign) complete the process without people noticing they are undergoing treatment during meetings and social settings.

Those who prefer braces also have a short adjustment period; modern bracket systems are much more comfortable than older ones.

Generally, within 1–2 weeks:

1. Speech adapts,
2. Lip and cheek tissues adjust,
3. The patient integrates the treatment into their work routine.

7.3. "Will my smile look bad during treatment?"

This is also a common concern. However, during the orthodontic process:

1. The teeth become aligned in a planned manner.
2. They become more regular each month.
3. The smile generally gets a little better every month as the treatment progresses.

For adults undergoing braceless treatment (clear aligners), this change happens even more "unnoticed."

8. Dr. Begüm Ulaşan's Approach to Adult Orthodontics in Bursa

Working at Milim Dental in Bursa, orthodontist Dr. Begüm Ulaşan operates with the following principles in adult orthodontics:

1. Personalized Assessment: She looks at the teeth, jaw, joint, gums, and facial profile as a whole, not just the teeth.
2. Transparent Explanation of Treatment Options: She clearly explains all options—braces, aesthetic brackets, clear aligners (Align, Invisalign)—in terms of their pros, cons, duration, and cost.
3. Realistic Expectation Management: Instead of a "perfect Photoshop smile," she aims for a realistic and healthy result that is compatible with your oral and facial structure.
4. Multidisciplinary Work: If necessary, she plans in collaboration with the periodontology, implantology, and oral surgery teams. Coordination with other branches is of critical importance, especially in pre-implant orthodontics.
5. Emphasis on the Retention Phase: She stresses the importance of the retention period (retainer) after orthodontics is finished. She offers night trays and fixed/laboratory retainer solutions to prevent teeth from reverting to their original position in adult patients.

9. Frequently Asked Questions – In Brief

Question 1: Is orthodontic treatment possible in adults?

Yes. As long as bone and gum health allow, orthodontics is possible even in your 20s, 30s, 40s, and even 50s.

Question 2: What is the ideal age?

While there are some advantages in childhood, treatment is also very successful in adulthood. The important factor is not "age" but the "condition of the tissues."

Question 3: Are braces or clear aligners better for adults?

There is no single correct answer. The decision should be made together with the orthodontist, evaluating the difficulty of the case, aesthetic expectation, professional life, and habits.

Question 4: Can every case be treated with Invisalign?

No. It is very suitable for mild-to-moderate crowding, but braces may be more controlled in very severe cases. A combination is possible in some situations.

Question 5: Who can I see for adult orthodontics in Bursa?

Orthodontic treatments should be conducted by an orthodontic specialist. In Bursa, Dr. Begüm Ulaşan at Milim Dental offers alternatives like braces and clear aligners (Align/Invisalign) for adult patients.

Conclusion: Adult Orthodontics is Both Possible and Highly Valuable

We now know the answer to the question, "Is orthodontic treatment possible for adults?" very clearly: Yes, it is possible.

Furthermore, when your teeth are aligned and your bite is corrected:

1. Your smile and overall oral health significantly improve.
2. You can smile more comfortably.
3. You can chew more easily.
4. Brushing your teeth becomes simpler.
5. A healthier foundation is prepared for other treatments like implants and prosthetics.

Dr. Begüm Ulaşan, an orthodontist in Bursa, offers her adult patients a combination of options, including:

1. Classic braces,
2. Aesthetic brackets,
3. Clear aligners,
4. Invisalign,

creating personalized, modern, and comfortable adult orthodontic solutions.

If you have been thinking for years, "I wish I could straighten my teeth, but it's too late now," the right step is to get an orthodontic examination.

Most adult patients leave the initial consultation saying:

"I wish I had come sooner; it turns out it really wasn't too late."

It is not too late for you either. With the right planning, the right specialist, and the right method, a healthy and aesthetic adult smile is still possible.