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Straight teeth aren’t just something to check off in your teenage years. It’s common for adults in Murfreesboro to choose to invest in orthodontic care, and it makes sense. Whether your teeth have shifted over time or you never had the chance to get braces growing up, today’s orthodontic treatment options are built for real life. Smiles from the Hart, led by Dr. Hart, offers a range of options that fit adult schedules, budgets, and priorities. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s feeling confident every time you smile.
Adult Braces Look a Lot Different Than They Used To
Forget the idea that braces only come in shiny metal and feel like a teenage rite of passage. Modern adult orthodontics is more flexible and discreet than ever.
Invisalign
This is one of the most popular choices among adults, and it’s easy to see why. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to shift your teeth gradually. There are no brackets, no wires, and no food restrictions. You can pop them out for meals or important meetings and put them right back in.
- Practically invisible
- No dietary restrictions
- Easier to brush and floss
- Custom-made for your smile
- Requires strong consistency—22 hours of wear per day
Invisalign requires patience and discipline. It works best if you’re committed to wearing your aligners every day, following the schedule closely, and showing up for check-ins with Dr. Hart.
Clear Braces
Clear braces work like traditional metal braces, but with one big difference—they blend in better. The brackets are made of a tooth-colored ceramic, so they’re much less noticeable. You still get the reliability of braces with a more low-key look.
- Great for more complex cases
- Less noticeable than metal
- Fixed in place, so there is no need to remember aligners
- Can be slightly more delicate than metal brackets
If you need something stronger than Invisalign but still want a discreet option, clear braces offer a nice middle ground.
Metal Braces
Yes, they’re still around, and for good reason. Metal braces are the most durable and effective option for tougher alignment issues. Some adults choose them because they want to fix things once and for all, and they don’t mind a bit of visibility if it means faster, more precise results.
- Best for complex bite corrections
- Cost-effective
- Strong and efficient
- Reliable results
These days, even metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than what you might remember from high school. If your priority is getting the job done right, this option still holds up.
What Else Should You Think About?
Choosing the right treatment as an adult is about more than just appearance. Your lifestyle, dental history, and long-term goals all factor in. That’s where Dr. Hart comes in. Every treatment plan at Smiles from the Hart starts with a personalized assessment.
Daily Routine and Commitment
Think about how much flexibility you need in your day. Invisalign gives you more freedom with food and cleaning, but requires strict wear time. Braces, on the other hand, stay on 24/7, so you don’t have to think about taking them in and out.
Oral Health Considerations
Gum health, bone density, and any existing dental work can affect what’s possible. Dr. Hart will look closely at these factors to guide you toward a choice that works with, and not against, your current dental condition.
Budget and Timeline
Cost can vary between treatments, and insurance coverage isn’t always guaranteed. If you’re working with a specific budget, the team at can walk you through payment plans or break down what’s most cost-effective long term.
Why More Adults Are Choosing Braces
There’s no shame in getting braces later in life. It’s one of the smartest moves you can make for your health. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean, reduce strain on your jaw, and lower your risk of gum disease or tooth damage.
Even minor alignment issues can lead to grinding, headaches, and premature wear on your enamel. Feeling good about your smile affects how you carry yourself, how you show up in conversations, and even how you take photos.
For many people, choosing adult orthodontics is less about cosmetic “fixes” and more about finally doing something for themselves.
What Happens After Treatment Ends
No matter which treatment you choose, the finish line doesn’t mean you’re completely done. Once your teeth are in the right position, you’ll need a retainer to keep them there. This step is non-negotiable if you want your results to last. Dr. Hart will walk you through the retainer process and make sure you understand when to wear it and how to take care of it.
Some people wear retainers only at night, while others may need a more consistent schedule for the first few months. It all depends on how your teeth respond. The important thing is consistency, and your future self will thank you.
A Clear Plan That Fits You
There’s no “right” treatment for every adult, but there is a right treatment plan for you. Dr. Hart and the team at Smiles from the Hart take the time to understand your lifestyle, goals, and preferences before recommending anything.
They won’t push you into a treatment you’re not comfortable with. The focus is on giving you options and helping you stay on track, whether that means starting with Invisalign or going the traditional braces route.
Let’s Talk About What Works for You
If you’ve been going back and forth about getting braces or Invisalign as an adult, that hesitation is totally normal. You have a lot on your plate, and the idea of fitting orthodontic treatment into everything else can feel overwhelming.
You will get honest feedback about your options, what’s realistic based on your schedule, and what kind of treatment fits your life, not someone else’s. If you’re local to Murfreesboro and want a plan that makes sense from day one, you’re in good hands at Smiles from the Hart. Dr. Hart will take the time to explain what’s possible for your specific situation during your free consultation.