Getting Orthodontic Treatment as an Adult

It’s completely normal for adults to have teeth that aren’t perfectly aligned. Many people may have needed braces as children but never had the opportunity, while others notice their teeth shifting over time due to natural changes, trauma, or habits such as teeth grinding. Life happens, and it’s never too late to take control of your oral health and smile with confidence.
At Fortitude Valley Dentist, we specialise in helping adults achieve straighter, healthier, and more confident smiles through modern orthodontic solutions tailored to fit adult lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking subtle adjustments or more comprehensive treatment, our approach prioritises comfort, convenience, and predictability, so you can achieve excellent results without disrupting your daily routine.
We understand that many adults are concerned about the visibility and comfort of orthodontic treatment. That’s why we offer Invisalign® clear aligners, a discreet and removable alternative to traditional braces, combined with advanced digital treatment planning. This ensures every step of your orthodontic journey is smooth, efficient, and tailored to your unique smile goals.
With our state-of-the-art technology, personalised care, and flexible scheduling, Fortitude Valley Dentist is committed to making adult orthodontics an achievable, enjoyable, and rewarding experience. Your path to a straighter, more confident smile can begin at any stage of life — and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Why Adults Choose Orthodontic Treatment

Why Adults Choose Orthodontic Treatment

In the past, orthodontic treatment was often associated with teenagers. But today, more adults than ever are choosing to straighten their teeth — and for good reason.

Life doesn’t stop once you turn 18, and neither should your opportunity to feel great about your smile. In fact, according to studies, one in four orthodontic patients today is an adult.

Here are some of the most common reasons adults consider orthodontic care:

1. Cosmetic Confidence

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. Misaligned or crowded teeth can sometimes affect how confidently you smile, speak, or even laugh. Orthodontic treatment helps restore your confidence by creating a more balanced, attractive appearance.

2. Oral Health Benefits

Crooked or overlapping teeth can make brushing and flossing difficult, which increases your risk of plaque buildup, gum disease, and cavities. By aligning your teeth properly, you make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and protect your long-term dental health.

3. Bite Correction and Comfort

A misaligned bite — such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite — can lead to jaw strain, headaches, and even tooth wear. Orthodontic treatment helps correct your bite, improving both comfort and functionality.

4. Professional and Social Impact

In today’s world, confidence can play a big role in your professional and personal life. A straighter smile can help you feel more self-assured during meetings, job interviews, or social interactions.

5. Modern Solutions for Busy Adults

The biggest barrier adults once faced with braces — metal brackets and wires — is now a thing of the past. Modern options like Invisalign® clear aligners make it possible to achieve incredible results without the inconvenience or visibility of traditional braces.

The Benefits of Straightening Your Teeth as an Adult

The Benefits of Straightening Your Teeth as an Adult

Straightening your teeth goes far beyond aesthetics—it’s an investment in your overall well-being.

Enhanced Oral Hygiene

Aligned teeth are easier to clean, which means less plaque, fewer cavities, and a lower risk of gum disease.

Improved Digestion and Speech

A proper bite ensures your teeth work harmoniously when chewing, improving digestion and even speech clarity.

Boosted Confidence and Mental Health

A confident smile can dramatically improve how you see yourself. Many adults report feeling more positive, outgoing, and even motivated after completing their orthodontic treatment.

Long-Term Oral Health Protection

Correcting misalignment reduces unnecessary wear on enamel and helps prevent future dental issues, saving you time and money in the long run.

Invisalign®: Orthodontics That Fit Your Lifestyle

Invisalign®: Orthodontics That Fit Your Lifestyle

At Fortitude Valley Dentist, we understand that adults want effective results without compromising their lifestyle. That’s why we proudly offer Invisalign®, the world’s leading clear aligner system.

What Is Invisalign®?

Invisalign® uses a series of custom-made, removable clear aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their ideal positions. The aligners are made from SmartTrack® material — a proprietary, flexible thermoplastic designed for precision, comfort, and control.

Why Adults Love Invisalign®

  • Virtually invisible: Perfect for professionals or anyone who wants a discreet treatment.
  • Comfortable and removable: You can eat, drink, and clean your teeth easily.
  • No metal brackets or wires: Say goodbye to food restrictions or irritation.
  • Customised and predictable results: Digital treatment planning shows your smile journey before you begin.

How Invisalign® Works

  1. Consultation and Assessment
    We’ll begin with a thorough dental examination to determine whether Invisalign® is right for you. Using 3D digital scans, we capture precise images of your teeth and bite.
  2. Personalised Digital Treatment Plan
    Using ClinCheck® software, we create a step-by-step visual roadmap of your entire treatment. You’ll see how each aligner will gradually move your teeth — and what your final smile will look like before you even start.
  3. Wearing Your Aligners
    You’ll wear each set of aligners for about 1–2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, or floss. Over time, your teeth will gently shift into their ideal alignment.
  4. Progress Monitoring
    Regular check-ins ensure your treatment stays on track. Adjustments are made if needed, and we support you every step of the way.
  5. Reveal Your New Smile
    Once your treatment is complete, we’ll provide a custom retainer to help maintain your beautiful results long-term.

Advanced Technology for Predictable, Comfortable Results

Invisalign® is backed by cutting-edge digital innovation.

ClinCheck® Software

This technology maps your treatment with extreme accuracy, giving you a virtual preview of your final smile.

SmartTrack® Material

Exclusively developed by Invisalign®, SmartTrack® ensures gentle, constant pressure for more predictable tooth movement and superior comfort compared to generic plastic aligners.

Precision Attachments

Small, tooth-coloured “attachments” may be placed on certain teeth to help guide complex movements with precision — almost invisible but highly effective.

With this advanced technology, Invisalign® offers accuracy, predictability, and comfort unmatched by traditional braces.

Invisalign® vs. Traditional Braces

Feature

Invisalign®

Traditional Braces

Appearance

Clear and virtually invisible

Metal brackets and wires

Comfort

Smooth and removable

Can cause irritation

Hygiene

Easy to clean teeth

Brushing and flossing are harder

Diet

Eat whatever you like

Avoid sticky or hard foods

Checkups

Fewer visits

More frequent adjustments

Predictability

Digital 3D plan

Manual adjustments

Best for

Busy adults and professionals

Complex orthodontic cases

For most adults, Invisalign® offers the perfect balance between convenience, effectiveness, and aesthetics.

What to Expect During Your Invisalign® Journey

We believe orthodontic care should be an enjoyable, empowering experience. Here’s what you can expect from start to finish at Fortitude Valley Dentist:

  1. Initial Consultation
    Our friendly team will assess your goals, take digital scans, and answer all your questions about treatment length, cost, and outcomes.
  2. Treatment Customisation
    Every smile is unique. We’ll personalise your aligner series based on your specific needs, ensuring efficient movement and minimal discomfort.
  3. Regular Check-Ins
    We’ll schedule short visits (usually every 6–8 weeks) to monitor progress and provide your next sets of aligners.
  4. Aftercare and Retention
    Once you complete treatment, we’ll provide a custom-made retainer to preserve your results and help you maintain your stunning new smile for life.

Life with Invisalign®

Starting Invisalign® as an adult is easier and more convenient than many people expect. Most adults adapt to wearing their aligners within just a few days, and because the trays are virtually invisible, many patients forget they’re even wearing them. This makes Invisalign® an ideal choice for professionals, parents, and anyone seeking a discreet orthodontic solution.

While Invisalign® is simple to incorporate into your daily routine, following a few best practices will help ensure the smoothest and fastest results:

1. Wear Aligners 20–22 Hours Per Day

For optimal results, aligners should be worn consistently throughout the day and night. Removing them only for meals, snacks, brushing, and flossing ensures your teeth move according to the digital treatment plan, and helps avoid delays in achieving your desired smile.

2. Clean Aligners Daily

Keeping your aligners clean prevents staining, bacteria buildup, and unpleasant odors. Simply rinse them with lukewarm water and gently brush with a soft toothbrush or mild soap. Avoid using hot water, which can warp the plastic and affect the fit.

3. Store Aligners Properly

Whenever you remove your aligners, store them in the provided case. This prevents loss, damage, or accidental contamination, keeping your treatment on track and hygienic.

4. Maintain Regular Dental Hygiene

Even with Invisalign®, regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups remain essential. Clean teeth allow aligners to fit snugly and move teeth accurately, while routine professional cleans ensure your gums and enamel stay healthy throughout treatment.

5. Tips for Everyday Life

  • Enjoy your favourite foods without restrictions — just remove your aligners while eating.
  • Stay consistent: even a few skipped hours per day can prolong treatment.
  • Keep a spare aligner case in your bag or at work for convenience.

With these simple steps, life with Invisalign® is comfortable, low-maintenance, and highly effective. Many adults find that not only does their smile improve, but the boost in confidence from a discreet treatment is immediate.

At Fortitude Valley Dentist, we provide guidance and support at every step, ensuring your Invisalign® journey is smooth, predictable, and tailored to your lifestyle.

Cost, Financing, and Value of Orthodontic Care

At Fortitude Valley Dentist, we believe everyone deserves a confident, healthy smile — without financial stress.

We offer flexible payment plans and interest-free options to make Invisalign® treatment affordable and accessible. Our team will work closely with you to design a plan that suits your budget and lifestyle.

Your investment includes:

  • Comprehensive dental assessment
  • Custom Invisalign® aligners
  • Regular monitoring appointments
  • Final retainers
  • Complimentary checkup and clean
  • Take-home whitening kit (limited-time offer)

A straighter smile isn’t just cosmetic — it’s a lasting investment in your confidence, health, and quality of life.

Complimentary Checkup and Whitening Kit

At Fortitude Valley Dentist, we believe that your journey to a straighter, healthier smile should start with a fresh and confident foundation. That’s why, when you begin your Invisalign® treatment, we provide a special complimentary package designed to enhance your overall experience and results.

What’s Included

  1. Complimentary Dental Checkup and Professional Clean
    Before your Invisalign® treatment begins, it’s essential to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. Our complimentary dental checkup and professional cleaning service:
  • Assesses your oral health and identifies any concerns that may affect orthodontic treatment
  • Removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains to give your teeth a polished, fresh start
  • Provides personalised advice on oral hygiene to maximise treatment effectiveness

This initial checkup ensures that your Invisalign® journey begins on the right foot, with healthy teeth and gums ready for optimal movement.

  1. Take-Home Whitening Kit
    We know that a straight smile looks even better when it’s bright and radiant. That’s why we include a take-home whitening kit as part of your Invisalign® package.

With this kit, you can:

  • Gently and safely whiten your teeth at home
  • Enhance the results of your orthodontic treatment
  • Achieve a stunning, confident smile that shines for every occasion

Combining teeth straightening and whitening in one journey ensures that your final smile is not just aligned but beautifully radiant.

Why This Matters

Starting your Invisalign® treatment with a clean, healthy mouth and a whitening boost:

  • Improves the overall aesthetic of your smile throughout treatment
  • Helps you feel confident from day one, not just at the end
  • Sets the stage for long-term oral health benefits, as clean teeth and gums respond better to orthodontic movement

This complimentary package reflects our commitment to patient care and our goal of making your smile transformation as smooth, convenient, and rewarding as possible.

(Terms and conditions apply. Offer available for a limited time.)

Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Orthodontics

For many adults considering orthodontic treatment, it’s natural to have questions and concerns. At Fortitude Valley Dentist, we want you to feel confident and informed before starting your journey toward a straighter, healthier smile. Here are some of the most common questions we hear about adult orthodontics:

1. Does Invisalign® Hurt?

One of the most common concerns for adults is whether Invisalign® treatment causes pain. While some mild discomfort is normal, especially when switching to a new set of aligners, most patients describe it as a gentle pressure rather than pain.

This sensation is a sign that your teeth are gradually shifting into their correct positions. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign® does not involve brackets or wires that can poke or irritate your gums and cheeks. Most adults find that after a few days, the slight pressure subsides and the aligners become comfortable to wear.

Tip: Wearing each set of aligners consistently (20–22 hours per day) helps reduce discomfort and ensures predictable results.

2. How Long Does Treatment Take for Adults?

Treatment duration depends on the complexity of your orthodontic needs. On average, Invisalign® treatment for adults ranges from 6 to 18 months, though some cases may take slightly longer.

Factors that influence treatment time include:

  • The severity of misalignment or bite issues

  • How consistently aligners are worn

  • Whether additional attachments or refinements are required

At Fortitude Valley Dentist, we use advanced ClinCheck® digital planning software, which allows you to see a step-by-step preview of your teeth’s movement and gives a realistic estimate of your treatment duration.

3. Can I Still Eat Normally?

Yes! One of the key advantages of Invisalign® over traditional braces is that the aligners are removable. You can take them out while eating or drinking anything other than water, which means no dietary restrictions.

This flexibility allows you to continue enjoying your favourite foods without worrying about damaging brackets or wires. After meals, simply brush your teeth before reinserting the aligners to maintain optimal oral hygiene and avoid staining.

4. Are Results Permanent?

Yes, the results of adult orthodontic treatment can be permanent — if you follow your dentist’s recommendations for retention. After your teeth have moved into their ideal positions, you’ll be provided with a custom-made retainer.

Wearing your retainer as instructed prevents your teeth from gradually shifting back to their original positions. Many adults wear their retainer at night for long-term maintenance, ensuring their straightened smile lasts a lifetime.

5. Can Adults Still Get Braces?

Absolutely! Adult orthodontics is more popular than ever, and there are multiple options tailored to adult lifestyles. Invisalign® is often preferred due to its discreet appearance, but traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and lingual braces (hidden behind teeth) are also effective solutions for complex cases.

At Fortitude Valley Dentist, we will assess your unique needs and recommend the treatment option that provides the best results while fitting your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

6. Bonus Tip: Why Adult Orthodontics Is Worth It

Many adults hesitate to start treatment thinking it’s “too late.” The truth is that modern orthodontics is designed with adults in mind:

  • Treatment is faster and more comfortable than ever

  • Clear aligners allow for discreet progress in professional and social settings

  • Straighter teeth improve both confidence and long-term oral health

By addressing common concerns upfront, adults can make informed decisions and feel confident taking the first step toward a healthier, more attractive smile.

Why Choose Fortitude Valley Dentist

Why Choose Fortitude Valley

Choosing the right dental team is one of the most important decisions you’ll make on your journey to a straighter, healthier smile. At Fortitude Valley Dentist, we understand that adult orthodontic treatment is not just about moving teeth — it’s about enhancing confidence, improving oral health, and transforming lives.

We pride ourselves on delivering an exceptional combination of advanced technology, personalised care, and genuine patient support. Here’s what makes us stand out as the leading choice for adults seeking Invisalign® and other orthodontic solutions in Brisbane:

Experienced Invisalign® Providers

Our team of dentists has extensive experience in treating adults with Invisalign® clear aligners. We understand the nuances of adult orthodontics — from complex bite issues to aesthetic concerns — and we create treatment plans that achieve precise, predictable results.

With our expertise, you can feel confident that your smile is in capable hands. We have successfully helped numerous adults in Fortitude Valley and surrounding areas achieve beautiful, natural-looking results with Invisalign®.

Personalised Care Tailored to You

No two smiles are the same, which is why every treatment plan at Fortitude Valley Dentist is fully customised. We take the time to understand your goals, lifestyle, and oral health needs, ensuring your treatment fits seamlessly into your life.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent managing family commitments, or someone who wants the most discreet orthodontic option, we design a plan that works around your schedule and priorities — not the other way around.

Comfort-First Approach

Your comfort is our top priority. Unlike traditional braces, modern orthodontic options such as Invisalign® are gentle on your teeth and gums. Our clinic also provides a relaxing, welcoming environment to make each visit stress-free.

From smooth, gentle procedures to attentive care during every appointment, we go above and beyond to ensure your experience is as comfortable and positive as possible. Many of our adult patients comment on how easy it is to fit treatment into their busy lives without disruption or discomfort.

State-of-the-Art Technology

We utilise the latest in dental technology to deliver accurate, predictable, and efficient treatment:

  • Digital Scans: Fast, precise, and comfortable impressions without messy moulds.
  • 3D Imaging: See a detailed, three-dimensional view of your teeth and bite.
  • ClinCheck® Software: Advanced digital planning lets you preview the entire Invisalign® journey before treatment begins.

This technology ensures that your treatment is highly precise, efficient, and tailored to your unique needs — resulting in straighter teeth and a confident smile in less time.

Flexible Scheduling for Busy Adults

We know that adult life is busy. Between work, family, and social commitments, finding time for appointments can be challenging. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling options, including evenings and weekends, so your orthodontic treatment is convenient, stress-free, and fits effortlessly into your lifestyle.

Transparent Pricing and Honest Communication

At Fortitude Valley Dentist, there are no hidden fees or surprises. From your initial consultation to the final smile reveal, we provide clear, upfront pricing for all treatment options. We’ll explain the cost of Invisalign®, payment plans, and any additional services, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Transforming Lives, One Smile at a Time

We don’t just straighten teeth — we help transform lives. A confident smile can impact your personal and professional life, boosting self-esteem, improving oral health, and enhancing overall well-being.

When you choose Fortitude Valley Dentist for your adult orthodontic treatment, you’re not just getting a dental service — you’re partnering with a team that values your goals, supports your journey, and celebrates your results.

Ready to Start Your Invisalign® Journey?

Your smile has the power to change how you feel every day — at work, in photos, and in every interaction. Whether you’re aiming for subtle adjustments or a complete transformation, Invisalign® for adults can help you achieve your goals comfortably and discreetly.

Contact Fortitude Valley Dentist today at (07) 3544 7777 to schedule your consultation or learn more about our complimentary checkup and whitening kit offer.

 It’s never too late to love your smile. Let’s make it happen together.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

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