Thinking about straightening your teeth later in life? You're in good company. More adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment, and Balhoff Orthodontics has helped Lafayette professionals, parents, and retirees achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they have always wanted. Adult braces in Lafayette look very different today than they did a generation ago, with smaller brackets, clearer materials, and treatment options built around busy schedules.
What Are Adult Braces?
Adult braces are orthodontic appliances designed for patients 18 and older, whose jaws are fully developed. Any healthy adult with good periodontal health can be a candidate, regardless of age. At Balhoff Orthodontics in Lafayette, LA, we offer traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and self-ligating braces to fit your lifestyle and aesthetic goals.
Modern brackets are noticeably smaller, smoother, and more discreet than earlier generations. That matters when you're sitting across the table in a business meeting or standing up at a wedding. Adult treatment has become common enough that most people around you won't give it a second glance, especially when clear ceramic options blend with your natural tooth color. Dr. Balhoff will walk you through every option during your free consult so you can make a confident choice.
Benefits of Getting Braces as an Adult
Straightening your teeth as an adult pays off in ways that go well beyond appearance. Here's what our orthodontic family in Lafayette gains from treatment:
- Boosted confidence in professional meetings, social gatherings, and photos
- Corrected bite issues such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite, which tend to worsen without treatment
- Easier brushing and flossing when teeth are properly aligned, lowering the risk of cavities and gum disease
- Reduced wear on tooth enamel, which protects you from costly dental work down the road
- Relief from TMJ discomfort caused by uneven bite pressure
- Correction of relapse from childhood orthodontic treatment that shifted over the years
- A lasting investment in both oral health and smile aesthetics
Many adults tell us they wish they had done it sooner. The good news? It's never too late. Whether you're in your 20s planning for your wedding or in your 60s finally putting yourself first, the results last a lifetime when paired with proper retainer wear.
The Adult Braces Treatment Process at Balhoff Orthodontics
Here's what to expect from start to finish when you choose Balhoff Orthodontics for your adult braces treatment in Lafayette:
- Free Consultation and Digital Scan. Your first visit includes a thorough exam with Dr. Balhoff, a digital scan using our iTero® Element™ scanner, and a conversation about your goals. No messy impressions, no pressure.
- Custom Treatment Plan Review. Next, Dr. Balhoff will present a plan tailored to your bite, timeline, and lifestyle. We'll cover your options (metal, ceramic, or self-ligating), estimated length of treatment, and total cost before you commit to anything.
- Braces Placement. Your bonding appointment typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. There's no drilling involved. Dr. Balhoff and our team carefully position each bracket and secure the archwire so your teeth begin shifting right away.
- Adjustment Visits. You'll return to our Lafayette office every 4 to 8 weeks so we can track progress, change wires, and make precise adjustments. These visits are quick and easy to fit into a working schedule.
- Braces Removal and Retainers. Once your teeth have reached their new positions, we remove the brackets and polish your enamel. You'll transition into retainers, which lock in your results for the long haul.
Most adult patients complete treatment in 18 to 36 months, though complexity varies from case to case. Dr. Balhoff will give you a realistic estimate at your consult based on what your smile actually needs.
Are You a Good Candidate for Adult Braces?
Yes, adults can absolutely get braces. The main requirements are healthy gums and adequate bone support around your teeth. If you have active gum disease, we'll address that first before beginning orthodontic treatment.
Common issues we treat for adults in Lafayette include:
- Crowding or overlapping teeth
- Gaps and spacing
- Rotated or tilted teeth
- Bite misalignment (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite)
- Relapse from childhood orthodontics
There's no upper age limit. We've treated patients in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and well beyond. Dr. Balhoff will also talk through lifestyle factors at your consult, like your profession, whether you play a wind instrument, or if you're active in contact sports, so your plan truly fits your life.
Why Lafayette Adults Choose Balhoff Orthodontics
Choosing an orthodontist is a personal decision, and we want you to feel completely confident in your care. Here's why adults across Acadiana trust Dr. Balhoff:
- Dr. Donald Balhoff, DDS earned his dental degree from LSU School of Dentistry and completed advanced orthodontic specialty training at Nova Southeastern University.
- Professional memberships include the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), American Dental Association (ADA), Southern Society of Orthodontists, Louisiana Dental Association, and Acadiana District Dental Association.
- Over 20 years of service to the Lafayette community, with Balhoff Orthodontics established in 2004.
- Advanced technology including the iTero® Element™ digital scanner, TADs (Temporary Anchorage Devices), and self-ligating braces for more efficient treatment.
- Flexible scheduling and payment plans built around the realities of working adults and busy family life.
- An enjoyable, caring, and energetic atmosphere where you'll receive meticulous service and quality care from Dr. Balhoff and our team.
We're proud to be known as the best family orthodontics Lafayette could ask for, and that commitment extends to every adult patient who walks through our doors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Braces
How much do adult braces cost in Lafayette?
Adult braces cost in Louisiana varies based on the type of braces you choose, the length of your treatment, and the complexity of your case. At your free consult, Dr. Balhoff will provide an exact price along with flexible payment plan options. Our team will also verify your insurance benefits so you have a complete picture before deciding.
How long do adult braces take compared to teens?
Adult treatment typically runs 18 to 36 months, which can be slightly longer than teens because adult bone is denser and teeth move at a steadier pace. The exact timeline depends on how much correction your bite needs. Dr. Balhoff will give you a realistic range at your consult.
Do adult braces hurt?
You can expect some soreness for a few days after your initial placement and after routine adjustments, similar to the feeling of a good workout for your teeth. Most patients manage this easily with over-the-counter options and soft foods. The soreness fades quickly, and you'll adapt faster than you'd expect.
Does insurance cover adult braces?
Insurance coverage for adult orthodontics varies widely by plan. Some plans include partial coverage for adults, while others cover orthodontics only for dependents. Our team will contact your insurance provider directly to verify benefits and walk you through what's covered before treatment begins.
Braces vs. Invisalign for adults, which is right for me?
Both are excellent options, and the right choice depends on your specific bite, your preferences, and your lifestyle. Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Braces | Invisalign® |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Metal, ceramic, or self-ligating | Nearly invisible aligners |
| Removable | No | Yes, for eating and brushing |
| Best for | Complex bite corrections | Mild to moderate alignment issues |
| Compliance | Always working | Requires 20-22 hours wear daily |
| Food restrictions | Yes (hard, sticky foods) | None (removed to eat) |
As a gold plus provider of Invisalign, Dr. Balhoff can recommend the option that will deliver the best result for your smile.
Will braces affect my professional life or speech?
Most adults adjust to braces within a week or two with minimal impact on daily life. Clear ceramic braces are especially popular with professionals because they're discreet in meetings and photos. Any slight speech changes typically resolve within a few days as your mouth adapts.
Schedule Your Free Adult Braces Consultation in Lafayette
Ready to take the first step toward a beautiful, healthy smile? Call Balhoff Orthodontics today at (337) 761-7070 or book online for a complimentary consultation at our Lafayette office, located at 3909-E Ambassador Caffery Pkwy, Lafayette, LA.
Your free consult includes a full exam, a digital iTero scan, and personalized recommendations from Dr. Balhoff, with no obligation. We offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, and we'll handle insurance verification and payment plan discussions during your visit. We look forward to welcoming you into our orthodontic family.