I Got Braces as an Adult and Never Looked Back [Before & After Photos]

I’m Not Exactly a Beauty Guru

So, full disclosure: I don’t really care much about my appearance. It drives my pre-teen daughter nuts, but I don’t spend hours shopping for clothes or makeup. Most of what I buy is from a thrift store. I wear what’s comfortable and affordable, and my makeup routine consists of fewer than five items.

Growing Up in Owensboro

I grew up in Owensboro, and my classmates weren’t like the ones you see in movies. No one really cared what you wore or how your hair was done. It just wasn’t that important in the late Nineties at Daviess County High School. When I watched Clueless for the first time, I thought it was all Hollywood nonsense. No one in school cared what you wore. Right?

Twenties and Thirties Hit Different

In my twenties, I started caring a little more. Okay, a lot more. I was going out to bars, dating, and trying not to look like something the cat dragged in. Then came my thirties. I was married and a mom. That’s when things really took a turn. I couldn't seem to get myself back on track, even though I was trying. When I looked at photos of myself, I just wasn’t happy. So one day, I decided to make a change.

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Getting Invisalign at Newburgh Family Dental

My teeth weren’t terrible, but I had a bad overbite and a tiny jawline. I also had TMJ that made my jaw stick when eating. I booked a consultation with Newburgh Family Dental. They were super nice, did a full screening, and explained the cost. It was more than I’d ever spent on myself, but I decided I was worth it.

They offered a CareCredit plan that included no interest if paid off within a certain time. That sealed the deal for me.

Read More: New Study Suggests We Should Resume Our Childhood Hobbies 

Why I Chose Invisalign

I went with Invisalign because I could take the trays out, and they were nearly invisible. They didn’t hurt much aside from some pressure, but did give me a lisp at first. The process starts with a 3D scan of your mouth, and then they map out your final smile. It’s actually pretty cool to see your predicted results upfront.

I wore Invisalign for over a year and ended up adding three extra months because I wasn’t totally happy with the final result. My teeth didn't feel like they were lining up right. They ordered more trays, no problem.

Unexpected Perks: Less Snacking, More Confidence

During that year, I actually lost about 50 pounds. I couldn’t mindlessly snack because I had to brush my teeth after eating before popping the trays back in, so I just stopped snacking altogether. The end result? Perfect teeth, less TMJ pain, and a huge boost in confidence.

Before, During, and After

So, again, I didn't have a bunch of crooked teeth but you can tell that the sides of my jaw didn't line up.

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

Thinking About Braces as an Adult? Do It.

If you’re an adult considering braces, whether traditional or Invisalign, I 100% recommend it. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

A Few Tips Before You Start

1. Read reviews of local orthodontists or Invisalign providers. A good experience makes all the difference.

2. Stick with a trusted provider. Don’t fall for cheaper knockoff brands. They’re not the same. In fact, those who have been duped have reported that the knockoff braces don't do anything at all.

3. Wear your retainer when you’re done. If you don’t, your teeth will move back. A co-worker’s daughter lost all her progress because she stopped wearing hers. Don’t make the same mistake.

Thinking about taking the plunge? Contact your local provider today!