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A Straightforward Guide for Adults Considering Orthodontic Treatment
Braces have come a long way, and if you’re an adult in Nashville considering orthodontic treatment, you’re not alone. More adults than ever are choosing braces to improve their smile, oral health, and overall confidence.
At Elevation Orthodontics, we specialize in adult-only orthodontic care, helping patients in East Nashville and beyond find the right treatment—without pressure, confusion, or outdated perceptions. Led by Dr. Brice Gilliam, our office is designed exclusively for adults who want results-driven care in a comfortable, modern setting.
Whether you’re getting braces for the first time or returning after past treatment, this guide covers what you need to know about the types of braces, the benefits of treatment, and what to expect from your orthodontic journey.
Types of Braces for Adults
Today’s braces are nothing like the bulky metal brackets you may remember from childhood. Advances in technology have made treatment more discreet, more comfortable, and more efficient—and at Elevation Orthodontics, we tailor every treatment plan to your goals, lifestyle, and timeline.
While we offer several modern braces options, one of the most exciting innovations we use is LightForce Braces—a fully customized digital bracket system designed for precision, comfort, and faster treatment times.
What Are LightForce Braces?
LightForce is the world’s first 3D-printed, fully customized ceramic bracket system. Unlike traditional braces, where one-size-fits-all brackets are applied to every patient, LightForce brackets are made specifically for your unique teeth and treatment plan.
Each bracket is digitally designed and 3D printed to perfectly match your tooth’s shape and placement, allowing for more accurate tooth movement, better comfort, and potentially shorter treatment time.
Why adults love LightForce:
- Discreet Appearance: Tooth-colored ceramic brackets blend in with your natural teeth.
- Personalized Fit: Custom-printed brackets offer improved comfort and precision.
- Fewer Appointments: Efficient tooth movement may reduce the number of adjustment visits.
- Streamlined Treatment: Advanced planning tools help Dr. Brice design a more predictable and faster path to your best smile.
LightForce is a great choice for adults who want the reliability of braces with a more modern, aesthetic, and tech-forward experience.
During your consultation, Dr. Brice will determine if LightForce is right for your smile goals and walk you through how it compares with other treatment options like clear aligners or traditional braces.
Benefits of Braces for Adults
Choosing braces as an adult can feel like a big decision, but it comes with even bigger rewards. Beyond the cosmetic improvements, braces can lead to long-term health benefits that make a lasting impact.
Top benefits of braces:
- Improved Alignment: Correct crowding, spacing, and crooked teeth for a more balanced smile.
- Better Oral Health: Straighter teeth are easier to clean, helping reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Reduced Jaw Pain or Tension: Braces can correct bite issues that contribute to TMJ discomfort, clenching, or headaches.
- Speech and Chewing Improvement: Proper alignment supports better functionality and speech clarity.
- Confidence Boost: A straight smile can enhance your personal and professional life, from interviews to date nights.
And the best part? It’s never too late to start. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond, adult orthodontic treatment is more common than you might think.
What to Expect During Braces Treatment
If you’re wondering what it’s really like to get braces as an adult, here’s a step-by-step look at what to expect when you begin treatment at Elevation Orthodontics:
1. Your Consultation
We start with a complimentary consultation that includes digital scans and a detailed exam. Dr. Brice will assess your smile, answer your questions, and recommend a personalized treatment plan.
2. Braces Placement
Once you’re ready to begin, we’ll schedule a visit to place your braces. The process is typically painless, and we’ll make sure you’re comfortable and fully informed about next steps.
3. Routine Adjustments
You’ll visit our East Nashville office every few weeks for gentle adjustments that help guide your teeth into alignment. Appointments are quick, and we offer flexible scheduling—including evenings and Fridays—to make it easy to stay on track.
4. Oral Care & Lifestyle Tips
We’ll provide guidance on how to keep your teeth and braces clean, what to eat (and what to avoid), and how to minimize any initial soreness or discomfort.
5. Treatment Completion + Retainers
Once your smile is where it needs to be, we’ll remove your braces and fit you for a custom retainer to protect your results for life.
The length of treatment varies, but most adult patients complete braces in 12–24 months. We’ll give you a clear timeline from the start and keep you informed every step of the way.
Why Choose Elevation Orthodontics for Adult Braces?
Braces aren’t just for kids, and your orthodontic experience shouldn’t feel like it is. At Elevation Orthodontics, we’ve created a space where adult patients feel heard, respected, and supported.
Here’s what makes us different:
- Exclusively for Adults: No pediatric patients, no distractions. Your experience is fully tailored to adult care.
- Judgment-Free Zone: Haven’t worn a retainer in years? Nervous about starting late? You’re in the right place.
- Customized, Clear Communication: We explain everything in simple terms and make sure your plan fits your life.
- Convenient East Nashville Location: Just minutes from downtown, with free parking and flexible hours.
- Led by Dr. Brice Gilliam: A skilled, compassionate provider who understands the unique needs of adult orthodontic patients.
We make it easy to say yes to treatment—and even easier to love your results.
If you’ve been thinking about getting braces in Nashville, now’s the time. Whether you want to correct shifting teeth, fix your bite, or finally invest in a smile you love, Dr. Brice and the team at Elevation Orthodontics are here to help—with a clear, customized plan and all the support you need.