Adult Orthodontics in Philadelphia – Transform Your Smile at Any Age

What Is Adult Orthodontics?

Adult orthodontics focuses on correcting tooth alignment and bite concerns after the jaw and teeth have fully developed. For adults, treatment may help with crowded teeth, gaps, shifting after previous braces, crossbite, bite imbalance, or difficulty cleaning between teeth.

At Philadelphia Orthodontics, Dr. Joshua Davis evaluates each patient’s teeth, bite, gum health, and treatment goals before recommending a personalized plan. Depending on your needs, adult treatment may include Invisalign, braces, retainers, or related orthodontic support.

Patients searching for orthodontics for adults, an adult orthodontist, or an orthodontist for adults in Philadelphia, PA can expect care designed around function, appearance, comfort, and long-term stability.

Why Adults Choose Orthodontic Treatment in Philadelphia, PA

Adults pursue orthodontic care for many reasons. Some want to address concerns they have had since childhood, while others notice new tooth movement, crowding, or bite changes over time.

Common reasons adults visit Philadelphia Orthodontics include:

• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Teeth shifting after prior orthodontic treatment
• Crossbite, overbite, underbite, or open bite concerns
• Jaw discomfort or bite-related strain
• Difficulty brushing or flossing crowded areas
• Interest in a straighter smile for personal or professional reasons

Because our office is located at 1420 Walnut Street Suite 518 in Philadelphia, PA, we are convenient for adults who live or work in Center City, attend nearby colleges, or travel into Philadelphia from communities such as Ardmore, Chester, Elkins Park, and Wayne.

Adult Orthodontic Treatment Options

Philadelphia Orthodontics offers several treatment options for adults. Dr. Davis will recommend the approach that best fits your alignment needs, bite concerns, lifestyle, and oral health.

Invisalign for Adults

Invisalign uses removable clear aligners to gradually move teeth into better alignment. Many adults prefer aligners because they are discreet and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing.

Invisalign may be appropriate for many mild to moderate cases involving spacing, crowding, or certain bite concerns. Learn more about Invisalign if you want a less noticeable approach to adult orthodontic treatment.

Traditional Braces for Adults

Braces remain an effective option for adults with more complex alignment or bite concerns. They may be recommended when teeth require controlled movement that is not ideal for removable aligners.

For patients researching orthodontist braces for adults, Philadelphia Orthodontics offers traditional braces as part of a customized treatment plan.

Gold Braces

Gold braces work similarly to traditional braces but offer a distinctive appearance some adult patients prefer. They may be a good fit for adults who want reliable orthodontic treatment with a different aesthetic option.

TMJ/TMD Therapy

Some adults experience jaw discomfort, headaches, clenching, or bite-related strain. Orthodontic evaluation can help determine whether bite alignment may be contributing to symptoms. When appropriate, Dr. Davis may discuss TMJ/TMD therapy or related treatment options.

Retainers and Night Guards

After active orthodontic treatment, retainers help maintain your results. Night guards or occlusal guards may also be recommended for patients who grind or clench their teeth. Long-term retention is an important part of protecting your adult orthodontic investment.

Signs You May Benefit from Adult Orthodontics

You may be a candidate for adult orthodontic care if you notice:

• Crowded teeth that are difficult to clean
• Gaps or spacing between teeth
• Teeth shifting after previous braces
• Bite discomfort when chewing
• Jaw tension or bite imbalance
• A crossbite or uneven bite
• Increased tooth wear
• A desire for better smile alignment

Patients often search for terms like crossbite near me or orthodontist Philadelphia when they are unsure whether their bite concern requires orthodontic care. A consultation with Dr. Davis can help determine what is causing the issue and whether orthodontic treatment is appropriate.

What to Expect During Your Adult Orthodontic Consultation

Your first visit at Philadelphia Orthodontics is designed to help you understand your options clearly. During the consultation, our team may review your goals, medical and dental history, bite alignment, and current concerns.

Your visit may include:

1. A clinical exam with Dr. Joshua Davis
2. Digital records such as X-rays, photographs, and an iTero scan
3. A review of tooth alignment, spacing, crowding, and bite function
4. Discussion of Invisalign, braces, or other treatment options
5. Estimated treatment timeline
6. Cost, insurance, and financing discussion

You can review what to bring before your appointment on our first visit information page.

How Long Does Adult Orthodontic Treatment Take?

Adult orthodontic treatment often takes 12 to 24 months, but timing varies by patient. Some minor alignment cases may take less time, while more complex bite correction can take longer.

Treatment length depends on:

• Severity of crowding or spacing
• Bite correction needs
• Whether Invisalign or braces are used
• Patient compliance with aligners or appointments
• Gum and bone health
• Need for additional dental or orthodontic care

Dr. Davis will provide a personalized estimate after your exam and diagnostic records.

Cost Factors for Adult Orthodontics in Philadelphia, PA

The cost of adult orthodontic treatment depends on your case complexity, treatment type, treatment length, diagnostic records, and retention needs. Invisalign, braces, and other orthodontic options may have different fee structures depending on the plan recommended.

Philadelphia Orthodontics helps patients review available insurance benefits and payment options. Interest-free in-house payment plans may be available, along with third-party financing through CareCredit and LendingClub. Visit our insurance and financing options page for more information.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Adult Orthodontics?

Many adults are candidates for orthodontic treatment if their teeth, gums, and supporting bone are healthy enough for tooth movement.

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Have crowded, crooked, or spaced teeth
• Have a bite concern such as crossbite, overbite, underbite, or open bite
• Want Invisalign or braces as an adult
• Previously had braces and noticed shifting
• Can maintain good oral hygiene during treatment
• Are willing to wear retainers after treatment
• Want care from an adult orthodontist in Philadelphia, PA

Who May Not Be a Good Candidate Right Away?

Some adults may need dental or periodontal care before starting orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics may need to be delayed if you have untreated gum disease, active tooth decay, certain bone support concerns, or dental issues that require treatment first.

Patients with severe jaw discrepancies may require additional evaluation before orthodontic treatment begins. In some cases, Dr. Davis may discuss whether another service, such as orthognathic surgery or other coordinated care, should be considered.

Adult Orthodontics vs. Invisalign vs. Braces

Adult orthodontics is the overall category of care for adults who need tooth movement, bite correction, or long-term alignment support. Invisalign and braces are two common ways to provide that care.

Invisalign may be preferred by adults who want removable, low-profile aligners and can wear them as directed. Braces may be better suited for patients with more complex movement needs or those who prefer a fixed option that does not require aligner wear compliance.

The right choice depends on your bite, tooth position, treatment goals, and lifestyle. Dr. Davis will explain the advantages and limitations of each option during your consultation.

Alternatives to Adult Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment is not the only option for every concern. Depending on your goals, alternatives may include:

• Retainers for minor shifting or post-treatment maintenance
• Cosmetic dentistry for certain appearance-focused concerns
• TMJ/TMD care for jaw discomfort or bite-related symptoms
• Orthognathic surgery for certain severe skeletal bite issues
• Other dental procedures when tooth or gum health must be addressed first

Philadelphia Orthodontics will recommend treatment only after evaluating your individual needs.

Why Choose Philadelphia Orthodontics?

Philadelphia Orthodontics is led by Dr. Joshua Davis, DMD, MS, an orthodontic specialist serving patients in Philadelphia, PA. Patients searching for Philadelphia orthodontics : joshua davis dmd, ms are often looking for a practice that combines modern orthodontic care with a comfortable, patient-focused experience.

Our practice uses digital technology, including 3D radiography and iTero scanning, to support diagnosis and treatment planning. Dr. Davis completed his dental and orthodontic training at Temple University School of Dentistry and remains active in professional development through dental and orthodontic societies, national conferences, and modern treatment education.

Patients can also meet Dr. Joshua Davis to learn more about his background and approach to care.

Adult Orthodontics for Philadelphia and Nearby Communities

Philadelphia Orthodontics provides adult orthodontic care from our office at 1420 Walnut Street Suite 518, Philadelphia, PA 19102. Our location is convenient for patients throughout Philadelphia, including Center City professionals, college students, and adults balancing treatment with work and family schedules.

We also welcome patients who travel from nearby communities such as Ardmore, Chester, Elkins Park, and Wayne, PA. While our office is located in Philadelphia, many adults from the surrounding area choose our practice for Invisalign, braces, bite evaluation, and long-term orthodontic care.

To explore related treatment options, visit our main orthodontic services page.