Can I get braces after 40?

Yes. There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. The main requirement is a healthy periodontium. Teeth can be moved at any age if the bone is intact.

Aligners or braces: which is better?

It depends on the complexity of the case. Aligners suit mild to moderate misalignments and are nearly invisible. Braces are more effective for complex bite issues. The decision is made together with the orthodontist.

Does the GKV cover orthodontics for adults?

Only in exceptional cases involving severe skeletal anomalies combined with surgery. Otherwise, the patient pays out of pocket or through a Zahnzusatzversicherung.

Orthodontics for Adults: Aligners and Braces After 30

Olga is not alone. According to the German Society of Orthodontics (DGKFO), one in five orthodontic patients in Germany is over 18. The trend is growing: clear aligners have made treatment virtually invisible, and the social stigma of "adult braces" has largely disappeared.

The key requirement for starting treatment as an adult: a healthy periodontium. Before braces or aligners are placed, any caries must be treated, tartar removed, and periodontal disease addressed if present.

Treatment options for adults

Clear aligners

Clear trays (Invisalign, ClearCorrect, SureSmile, etc.) are practically invisible on the teeth. Every 1-2 weeks the patient switches to the next tray in the plan. Aligners are removed for eating and brushing.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic brackets are colour-matched to the teeth and less noticeable than metal ones. They are fixed to the outer surface and work on the same principle.

Lingual braces

Attached to the inner surface of the teeth, completely invisible from the outside. The most expensive option, requiring advanced specialist skills.

Treatment duration

Mild cases (aligners): 6-12 months.

Moderate cases: 12-18 months.

Complex cases (combined treatment): 18-30 months.

After active treatment, wearing a retainer is essential to maintain the result.

GKV coverage for adults

For adult patients (over 18), the GKV covers orthodontic treatment only in exceptional cases: severe skeletal anomalies requiring a combination of orthodontics and surgery. In all other cases the patient pays the full cost.

A good Zahnzusatzversicherung may cover adult orthodontics. Important: the insurance must be taken out before treatment begins, and coverage limits should be checked.

Orthodontics for adults: aligners and braces after 30