By: Kelowna Dentist Dr. Shauna Palmer:
A Holistic Look at Braces in Kelowna
At Health & Beauty Dentistry with Dr. Shauna Palmer, we believe a straight, healthy smile does more than boost confidence — it supports better long-term health, airway function, and overall comfort. Many people still think braces are meant only for teenagers, but the reality is much broader. With today’s integrative, whole-body approach, braces can be an option for many ages and stages of life.
So, are dental braces truly for everyone and every age? Let’s take a closer look.
Can Anyone Get Braces?
The Short Answer: Yes — When the Conditions Are Right
A question Dr. Palmer hears often is, “Am I too old for braces?” The encouraging news is that healthy teeth can move at almost any age. Children, teens, adults, and even older adults can all benefit from orthodontic treatment when their teeth, gums, and supporting bone are in good condition.
Here’s how different groups typically benefit:
- Children & Pre-teens: Early assessments help guide proper jaw and facial development, which often leads to healthier long-term outcomes.
- Teenagers: This is the most common treatment period because the jaw is still growing, allowing teeth to move efficiently.
- Adults: More adults than ever are choosing braces to improve bite function, reduce tooth wear, or correct long-standing misalignment. Treatment may take a little longer, but the results can be just as successful when oral health is well-managed.
Age alone isn’t the deciding factor — your oral health foundation is what truly matters.
Why Oral Health Matters More Than Age
Braces work by gently guiding teeth through the bone. That means gum health, jaw function, and bone stability all play important roles in determining the right treatment approach.
Dr. Palmer’s integrative, whole-body assessment looks beyond straight teeth and includes:
- Jaw alignment and TMJ (jaw joint) function
- Bite balance and how the teeth function together
- Airway support and breathing patterns
- Craniofacial development and posture
- Your overall oral–systemic health
By considering these deeper factors, orthodontic care becomes more than cosmetic. It becomes part of a bigger picture — one that supports breathing, comfort, stability, and long-term wellness.
What Orthodontic Treatment Looks Like at Different Ages
Children and Early Teens
Early orthodontic guidance can encourage healthy jaw growth, support airway development, and help prevent more complex concerns down the road.
Teenagers
Once most adult teeth are in place, braces can efficiently guide alignment. Because teens are still growing, this stage often responds quickly to treatment.
Adults
Adults often seek treatment to improve function, comfort, or long-term dental health. Even if braces take a little longer at this stage, the benefits — better bite, balanced wear, improved confidence — are well worth it.
Modern Orthodontic Options for All Ages
Braces are no longer just metal brackets. Depending on your needs and your lifestyle, you may be a candidate for:
- Clear aligners (ideal for mild to moderate concerns)
- Traditional wire-based braces (best for more complex movements)
- Functional appliances that support jaw growth and airway development
- Integrative treatment plans that combine orthodontics with TMJ or airway care
Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, Dr. Palmer carefully evaluates which method best supports your health, comfort, and long-term dental stability.
Are Braces Worth It at Any Age?
Absolutely — when recommended as part of a comprehensive, holistic treatment plan.
At Health & Beauty Dentistry, orthodontic care always considers:
- TMJ and jaw joint comfort
- Breathing and airway function
- Long-term bite stability
- Facial balance and development
- Whole-body wellness
Straight teeth are the visible outcome — but improved well-being is the deeper benefit.
So, are dental braces for everyone and every age?
In many situations, yes. With a thoughtful evaluation and an integrative approach, braces can support healthier living at almost any stage of life.
Whether you’re exploring braces for your child, a teenager in your family, or for yourself as an adult, the first step is a personalized assessment that looks at more than just alignment. It looks at how your teeth, jaw, airway, and overall health work together.
For people living in Kelowna, West Kelowna, and the entire Okanagan Valley — we provide straight, healthy, whole-body-supported smiles, that can start at any age.
