Adult Orthodontics

Adult Orthodontics in Waterville, ME

It is never too late to straighten your smile. At Smiles for Maine Orthodontics in Waterville, board-certified orthodontist Dr. Brian Patterson treats adults of every age with discreet, comfortable options, including Invisalign, clear ceramic braces, and limited-treatment plans for smiles that only need a little fine-tuning.

Orthodontic treatment is not just for kids. Nearly one in five orthodontic patients today is an adult, and at Smiles for Maine Orthodontics, Dr. Brian Patterson, a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, helps adults across central Maine achieve healthier bites and confident smiles. Many adults come to us to correct concerns that were never treated as a child, while others return because their teeth shifted after braces years ago. Whatever brought you here, modern adult orthodontics is more comfortable and more discreet than ever.

Why Adults Choose Orthodontic Treatment

Adults pursue treatment for both health and appearance, including:

• Straightening crowded or crooked teeth for a more balanced smile
• Correcting relapse from inconsistent retainer wear after childhood braces
• Making teeth easier to brush and floss
• Improving a bite that causes discomfort or uneven tooth wear
• Closing gaps or addressing spacing from missing teeth
• Coordinating alignment ahead of restorative work, sometimes with jaw-related care

Your Adult Treatment Options

Every adult smile is different, so we offer flexible options to fit your goals, timeline, and lifestyle:

• Invisalign clear aligners - removable and nearly invisible, ideal for professionals and busy schedules.
• Clear ceramic braces - subtle, tooth-colored brackets for more involved corrections.
• LightForce and metal braces - precise, efficient options for complex cases (see types of braces).
• Smile Choice limited treatment - for adults who only need minor movement, often in just a few weeks.

Discreet Treatment That Fits Your Life

Appearance matters to most adult patients, and you have options that few people will notice. Invisalign is removable and clear, so it disappears in meetings and photos. Clear ceramic braces blend with your teeth for a professional look. Many adults pair treatment with virtual check-ins to limit trips into Waterville from nearby towns like Winslow, Fairfield, and Augusta.

What to Expect During Treatment

Adult treatment is no more uncomfortable than treatment for teens. You may feel mild soreness for a day or two after adjustments, which typically eases within a few days. Most adult treatment finishes in about 15 to 18 months, with appointments spaced roughly every 8 to 10 weeks to respect your schedule.

Cost of Adult Orthodontics in Waterville

Adult treatment is priced by the complexity of your case, the appliance you choose, and treatment length. Our Smile Choice program offers three flexible options, and we give you an exact quote at your consultation along with flexible payment plans, out-of-network insurance assistance, and HSA/FSA acceptance. Visit our financial information page to learn more.

Smile Choice: Limited Treatment for Adults

If you have had braces before and your teeth have shifted only slightly, you may not need full treatment. Our Smile Choice program offers affordable, limited Invisalign options designed to reach your goals in fewer visits and less time.

It Is Never Too Late for a Healthy Smile

Dr. Patterson has successfully treated adults in their 50s, 60s, and 70s. Orthodontic care can improve your oral health, comfort, and confidence at any age. Schedule your complimentary consultation or call (207) 873-7425 to explore your options. Smiles for Maine Orthodontics is located at 6 Cool Street in Waterville, ME 04901.