Adult Braces in Chapel Hill, NC

Considering adult braces in Chapel Hill, NC? Clifton & Mauney offers braces for adults who want to improve their smile, correct shifting teeth, address bite issues, or explore orthodontic treatment later in life.

It’s not too late to straighten your teeth or improve your bite. Many adults choose braces because their teeth have shifted after previous orthodontic treatment, they never had braces as a child, or they want to correct crowding, spacing, or bite concerns that affect their confidence and oral health.

Depending on your needs, you may be a candidate for metal braces, clear ceramic braces, Damon braces, or another orthodontic option. Our team will evaluate your teeth, bite, and goals, then walk you through your treatment choices so you can make a confident decision.

Why adults choose braces

Adults choose braces for many reasons. Some want a straighter smile. Others are dealing with bite problems, shifting teeth, or relapse after wearing braces earlier in life.

Adult braces can help address:

Crooked teeth
Crowded teeth
Gaps between teeth
Overbite
Underbite
Crossbite
Open bite
Teeth that have shifted after previous braces
Uneven tooth wear
Difficulty cleaning between teeth
Bite-related chewing issues
Smile confidence concerns

Braces for adults are not only cosmetic. A healthier bite and better tooth alignment may also make it easier to chew, brush, floss, and maintain long-term dental health. According to the American Dental Association, orthodontic treatment helps create a healthier bite, making it easier to bite, chew, and speak.¹

If you’re not sure whether your symptoms are related to orthodontic alignment, an evaluation can help.

Who are braces for?

Clifton & Mauney offers several orthodontic treatment options for adults in Chapel Hill, NC. The right choice depends on your smile goals, bite concerns, treatment complexity, timeline, and preference for appearance.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are a reliable option for many adult patients, especially those with moderate to complex crowding, spacing, or bite concerns. They use brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into better alignment.

Metal braces may be a good option if you want a durable, effective treatment that can address a wide range of orthodontic issues.

Damon braces

Damon braces are another adult braces option available at Clifton & Mauney. These braces are designed to move teeth efficiently while supporting a comfortable treatment experience.

If you are researching Damon braces in Chapel Hill, our team can explain how they compare with traditional metal braces and clear ceramic braces.

Clear ceramic braces

Clear ceramic braces work similarly to metal braces, but they use tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend in more naturally with your smile. Many adults choose clear braces because they want the effectiveness of braces with a more discreet look.

Clear ceramic braces may be a good fit if you want braces but prefer a less noticeable option for work, social events, or daily life.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners are not braces, but they may be an option for some adults with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns. Aligners use a series of removable trays to gradually move the teeth.

If you are comparing braces with Invisalign or other clear aligners, our team can explain which option may be better for your bite, smile goals, and lifestyle. The American Association of Orthodontists notes that adults today have many treatment options, including clear aligners, ceramic braces, and other less visible appliances.²

Metal braces
Clear ceramic braces
Damon braces
Clear aligners

Option	Metal braces	Clear ceramic braces	Damon braces	Clear aligners
Option	Option	/year	$3999 /year	$3999 /year	$3999 /year
May be best for	Moderate to complex alignment or bite concerns	Adults who want a less noticeable braces option	Adults interested in an efficient braces option	Mild to moderate alignment concerns
Visibility level	Most visible	Less visible than metal braces	Varies by appliance type	Very discreet
Adult considerations	Durable, effective, and appropriate for many adult cases	May appeal to professionals or adults concerned about appearance	Can be discussed during consultation based on treatment needs	Removable, but requires strong compliance and may not be ideal for every bite issue
	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now

Who is a good candidate for adult braces?

You may be a good candidate for adult braces if you have concerns about tooth alignment, bite function, or teeth that have shifted over time. Some adults also seek orthodontic treatment before or after other dental work, such as crowns, implants, veneers, or restorative treatment. In these cases, braces may be part of a broader plan to improve tooth position, bite function, or long-term oral health.

The only way to know whether braces are appropriate for your smile is to complete an orthodontic evaluation. During your visit, our team can review your teeth, bite, dental history, and goals before recommending the best treatment option.

How much do adult braces cost in Chapel Hill, NC?

The cost of adult braces in Chapel Hill, NC, depends on your treatment needs. Every smile is different, so the exact cost can only be determined after an orthodontic consultation.

Adult braces cost may depend on:

The type of braces you choose
The complexity of your tooth movement
Whether bite correction is needed
Estimated treatment length
Insurance coverage
Payment or financing arrangements
Whether treatment is coordinated with other dental work

Average braces cost range of $3,000–$7,000. At Clifton & Mauney, our team can help you understand your estimated treatment cost, review insurance benefits, and discuss payment options before you begin. We can provide a personalized estimate after your consultation.

Why choose Clifton & Mauney for adult braces?

Choosing an adult orthodontist in Chapel Hill, NC is an important decision. You want a team that understands adult treatment goals, explains options clearly, and creates a plan that fits your lifestyle.

At Clifton & Mauney, adult braces treatment is personalized to your smile, bite, and long-term oral health. Our team can help adults who are starting orthodontic treatment for the first time, returning after previous braces, or comparing braces with clear aligners.

Clifton & Mauney offers:

Adult braces in Chapel Hill, NC
Metal braces, clear ceramic braces, Damon braces, and clear aligner options
Personalized treatment planning
Modern imaging and digital scanning technology
A convenient, modern office
Care for adults with shifting teeth, bite concerns, or orthodontic relapse
A long-standing local presence in the NC Triangle
A team experienced in orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults

Dr. Lenise Clifton’s orthodontic background and the team’s experience allow Clifton & Mauney to provide thoughtful treatment planning for adult patients with a wide range of orthodontic needs.

Meet The Team

Real results from real people

Seeing real orthodontic results can help you feel more confident about starting treatment. Adult braces can improve tooth alignment, bite function, and smile appearance over time.

We were running late due to my work so I called and asked if we could still come and they were very accommodating. My daughter got right in and everyone was very nice. Always a welcome when we come in and Lisa greets my daughter by name.

Staff is very friendly and professional. Always greeted by a smile and receive a verbal visit summary by staff before leaving. The staff is great to work with!! We keep coming back...third son in orthodontics and daughter is considering the option.

Very efficiently run practice. Very personable staff. Drs Clifton and Mauney are warm, honest, experienced and very knowledgeable. Our 3 children have been coming here since they were young (18 mo), and now our oldest is 21yr. Just wish they accommodated adults--my husband and I would also be patients!

We love Clifton/Mauney for their caring staff and excellent service. We have never had a bad experience, and the staff does their best to accommodate our every need.

Proudly serving Chapel Hill, Orange County, and Durham County

Clifton & Mauney provides adult braces and orthodontic care for patients in Chapel Hill, NC, and surrounding communities. Our local office makes it convenient for adults to schedule orthodontic visits close to home, work, school, or family routines.

We welcome adult patients from:

Chapel Hill
Carrboro
Durham
Hillsborough
Orange County
Durham County
The Research Triangle area
Nearby communities throughout central North Carolina

Whether you are searching for adult braces near Durham, NC, adult braces near Hillsborough, NC, or an adult orthodontist in Chapel Hill, our team is here to help you explore your options.

Clifton & Mauney Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry

77 Vilcom Center Dr, Suite 310
Chapel Hill, NC US 27514
Phone: 919.933.1007
Mon – Thu 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Fri Closed

Schedule an adult braces consultation in Chapel Hill, NC

Ready to find out whether braces are right for your smile? Clifton & Mauney offers adult braces consultations in Chapel Hill, NC, for patients who want to improve alignment, correct shifting teeth, address bite issues, or compare treatment options.

During your consultation, our team will evaluate your teeth and bite, answer your questions, and explain which options may be right for you. Depending on your needs, treatment may include metal braces, clear ceramic braces, Damon braces, clear aligners, or another orthodontic plan.

If you have been waiting to improve your smile, now is a great time to take the next step.

Braces FAQs

How long do adult braces usually take?

Adult braces treatment depends on the complexity of your case, the type of braces used, and how much tooth or bite movement is needed. Some adults may need shorter treatment, while more complex cases can take longer. Your orthodontist can provide a personalized timeline after your evaluation.

Do adult braces hurt?

Adult braces can cause pressure or soreness, especially after they are first placed or adjusted. This discomfort is usually temporary and often improves within a few days. Our team can explain what to expect and how to manage soreness during treatment.

How often will I need appointments with adult braces?

Most adults with braces need regular orthodontic visits so the team can monitor progress and make adjustments. The exact schedule depends on your treatment plan and the type of braces you choose.

Can I get braces if I have crowns, fillings, or veneers?

In many cases, yes. Adults with crowns, fillings, or veneers may still be candidates for braces. Your orthodontist will review your dental history and determine how existing dental work may affect your treatment plan.

Can I get braces if I have missing teeth or dental implants?

Possibly. Missing teeth or dental implants do not automatically rule out braces, but they can affect treatment planning. Dental implants do not move like natural teeth, so your orthodontist will need to evaluate your bite and coordinate treatment carefully.

Can I get braces if I have gum disease?

Active gum disease usually needs to be treated before braces begin. Healthy gums and supporting bone are important for safe orthodontic tooth movement. If you have a history of gum disease, your orthodontist may coordinate with your dentist or periodontist before starting treatment.

Will adult braces affect my work or social life?

Adult braces may take some adjustment, but most patients continue working, socializing, and following their normal routines during treatment. If appearance is a concern, clear ceramic braces or clear aligners may be options to discuss during your consultation.

What foods should adults avoid with braces?

Adults with braces should avoid foods that can damage brackets or wires, including very sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy foods. Our team will give you specific instructions so you can protect your braces and keep treatment on track.

How do I keep my teeth clean with adult braces?

Brushing and flossing take extra care with braces. You may need special tools, such as floss threaders, interdental brushes, or a water flosser, to clean around brackets and wires. Good oral hygiene is especially important during adult braces treatment.

What should I do if a bracket or wire breaks?

If a bracket or wire breaks, contact Clifton & Mauney for guidance. Do not try to fix it yourself unless the team gives you specific instructions. Orthodontic wax may help reduce irritation until your appointment.

Will I need rubber bands with adult braces?

Some adults need rubber bands to help correct bite alignment. If they are part of your treatment plan, our team will show you how to wear them and explain how often they should be changed.

Will I need a retainer after adult braces?

Yes, most patients need a retainer after braces. Retainers help maintain your results and reduce the risk of teeth shifting after treatment. Your orthodontist will explain how often to wear your retainer once your braces come off.

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