Can adults undergo orthodontic treatment?

Sep 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

In general, adults are eligible for orthodontic treatment, which is a well-established and effective procedure. Age is not a contraindication for orthodontics; adults with orthodontic needs can seek medical care accordingly. It is recommended to first visit a reputable dental department for an oral examination and skeletal assessment, after which the dentist will develop a personalized treatment plan. By maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular follow-up appointments during treatment, ideal tooth alignment and occlusion can be achieved.

In general, adults are suitable candidates for orthodontic treatment, which is now a well-established technique with clear and effective results. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Although adults have passed their peak growth and development phase and experience slower bone remodeling compared to adolescents—potentially leading to a slightly longer treatment duration—the teeth still retain the ability to move. Orthodontic treatment can effectively correct issues such as misaligned teeth, excessive spacing, and malocclusion. Compared to adolescents, adults typically need to address underlying oral health conditions first, such as dental caries and periodontal disease. Since adults are more prone to gum recession and alveolar bone loss, it's essential to control any inflammation before beginning orthodontic treatment to avoid exacerbating existing oral problems during the process.

Currently, various orthodontic options are available for adults, including traditional metal braces, more aesthetically pleasing ceramic braces, and invisible aligners, allowing individuals to choose based on personal needs. Orthodontic treatment not only enhances appearance but also improves occlusal relationships, reduces food impaction, lowers the risk of periodontal disease and tooth decay, and enhances chewing function.

Age is not a contraindication for orthodontic treatment; adults who desire correction should seek professional care. It is recommended to visit a reputable dental department for a comprehensive oral examination and skeletal assessment. A customized treatment plan can then be developed by a dentist. By maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular follow-up appointments during treatment, adults can achieve ideal tooth alignment and bite function.

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Can orthodontic treatment correct only the upper teeth?

In rare cases, orthodontic treatment may involve correcting only the upper teeth, but this requires meeting strict criteria. In most situations, it is still recommended to correct both upper and lower teeth simultaneously. Whether to treat only the upper teeth should not be decided independently; a comprehensive examination at a reputable dental clinic is necessary. An orthodontist will develop a personalized treatment plan based on tooth alignment and occlusion. Arbitrarily correcting only one jaw may compromise treatment outcomes and even lead to new oral health problems.

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Can the gums be corrected?

In general, malocclusion can be corrected, and the specific correction plan should be determined according to the type and cause of the dental problem. Correcting malocclusion requires first identifying the underlying cause and type, then selecting an appropriate treatment approach under the guidance of a qualified medical professional. Whether orthodontic treatment or orthognathic surgery is chosen, it is essential to follow the prescribed treatment timeline and maintain proper oral hygiene after treatment to ensure stable correction results and protect the health of the gums and teeth.

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Can hernia heal on its own?

In most cases, hernias cannot heal on their own. Only a very small number of umbilical hernias in infants may close spontaneously as they grow and develop. Once a hernia is detected, timely medical evaluation is necessary. For adults and infants whose hernias do not resolve spontaneously, surgical repair of the abdominal wall defect is required for a definitive cure, to prevent complications such as incarceration, which could lead to serious consequences like intestinal necrosis if left untreated.