Adult orthodontics in West Covina

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What is adult orthodontics?

Adult orthodontics refers to orthodontic care tailored specifically for grown-ups. At One Smile Orthodontics, we understand that adults often want straighter teeth without the look or feel of traditional braces. That’s why we offer modern options like clear aligners and ceramic braces designed for both comfort and discretion. We also know adult patients have busy lives, so we focus on efficiency, aesthetics, and personalized care. Dr. Kim’s approach is rooted in artistry and clinical precision to deliver results that not only look good, but feel good too. If you’ve been waiting for the right time, this is it.

The benefits of adult orthodontics

Aesthetic options

We offer discreet treatments like clear aligners and ceramic braces so you can improve your smile without drawing attention to your orthodontics.

Improved oral health

Straight teeth make brushing and flossing easier, which can reduce your risk of decay, gum disease, and jaw strain over time.

Personalized experience

Dr. Kim takes a hands-on, design-forward approach to adult treatment, making sure every step reflects your lifestyle and goals.

Which treatment is right for you?

Smiling woman holding a clear dental aligner near her open mouth.

Clear Aligners

A woman in a black and white striped shirt.

Damon Braces

Cost

Cost

$3,400 - $7,550
$2,950 - $6,550

Visibility

Slightly visible
Visible

Appliance Type

Removable
Bonded to teeth

Discomfort

More comfortable than braces
Some soreness

Speech

Mild lisp
Some speech changes

Best For

Mild to severe cases
Mild to severe cases

Food Restrictions

No limitations
Some limitations

Appointments Interval

10-14 weeks
6-10weeks

Our adult orthodontic treatments

Clear aligners

Clear aligner therapy is a subtle, removable solution for busy adults who want to straighten their teeth without brackets or wires. These custom-fit trays apply gentle pressure to move your teeth over time, and you can remove them to eat, brush, and floss as usual. One Smile Orthodontics offers free consultations and custom plans tailored to your schedule and smile goals. Patients love aligners for their comfort and flexibility, especially when aesthetics matter for work or social settings.

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Braces

We also offer traditional and ceramic braces for adults who want powerful, predictable results. Braces can address more complex orthodontic concerns, and today’s options are more streamlined and comfortable than ever before. Ceramic braces blend in with your teeth for a less noticeable look while still delivering the precision you need. Dr. Kim focuses on the artistry behind every bracket placement to ensure your smile turns out as beautiful as it is functional.

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Damon braces

Damon Braces are a modern orthodontic option that use self-ligating brackets to gently move teeth into place without the need for traditional elastic bands. This system allows for a more comfortable experience with fewer adjustments and faster treatment times. Available in both metal and clear options, Damon Braces offer a discreet and efficient way to achieve a beautifully aligned smile.

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The adult orthodontics process

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1

Complimentary consultation

Your journey starts with a free consultation at One Smile Orthodontics. Dr. Kim will take the time to understand your goals, evaluate your bite, and walk you through treatment options tailored to your lifestyle. We’ll also review your digital scans and answer any questions you have about timing, comfort, or cost.

2

Custom treatment planning

Once you’re ready to begin, we’ll design a personalized treatment plan using 3D imaging and advanced diagnostic tools. Whether you’re choosing clear aligners or braces, this step ensures your care is precise, efficient, and designed to fit seamlessly into your day-to-day routine.

3

Active treatment phase

You’ll return to our office for regular check-ins to make sure everything is progressing as planned. For aligners, this might include updating your trays. For braces, it means adjustments and monitoring. Our team makes each visit easy and upbeat, keeping you informed and motivated every step of the way.

4

Retention and long-term support

Once your treatment is complete, we’ll provide you with retainers to keep your smile in place. We’ll also schedule follow-ups to monitor stability and make any refinements if needed. Your smile is a long-term investment—and we’re here to support it long after the final tray or bracket comes off.

Frequently asked questions

Find answers to common questions from our clients.

Not at all! Adult orthodontics is more common than ever, and there’s no age limit to improving your smile. Whether you’re in your 30s, 50s, or beyond, we’ll customize a treatment that fits your needs.

Not necessarily. While adult treatment can sometimes take a little longer than adolescent treatment due to bone density, many adult patients finish in about 12 to 24 months. Dr. Kim will outline an exact timeline based on your case.

Yes! If your teeth have shifted over time, we can help you get back on track. Many adults return to treatment later in life, and options like clear aligners make it a low-hassle process.

Real smiles.
Real stories.

If you are an adult patient who is considering a ortho treatment that you've been thinking about for your entire life, I highly recommend Dr. Kim. I was initially nervous about the process but Dr.Kim was very attentive and took time to come up with the plan that will address my concerns so I decided to start the treatment. My two main concerns were crowded lower anterior teeth and narrow upper jaw. Before starting the treatment, Dr. Kim clearly explained the treatment plan and timeline, which helped alleviate my concerns. Since I didn't want to wear the palate expander, Dr. Kim came up with alternative solution that can be done with Invisalign. Even as a first time ortho patient, I felt treatment plan was well thought out and precisely moving my teeth without causing excessive pain. I'm currently done with my initial treatment and waiting for refinements sets but I'm already very happy with the results so far. One Smile Orthodontics truly lives up to its name.

Yubin S.

I don't normally leave reviews, but after visiting Dr. Namgu Kim I feel compelled to share it.

I went for a consultation about possibly getting braces or Invisalign, and as someone who always had a lot of anxiety around dental visits, I was honestly nervous walking in. But the moment I met Dr. Kim, I felt at ease. He has a reassuring presence and a genuine way of listening that makes you feel cared for as a patient -- not rushed, not pressured, just understood.

Dr. Kim took the time to thoroughly examine my teeth, explain what he was seeing, and walk me through my options in a way that was clear and easy to understand. He pointed out details that other dentists had overlooked and laid out a step-by-step plan that made me feel confident about what comes next. He focused on what would genuinely serve my needs and comfort level. As someone with dental anxiety, that meant a lot. For the first time, I felt like I was in the hands of a specialist who really prioritized my well-being.

If you're considering orthodontic treatment -- Invisalign, braces, or even just a professional opinion -- I cannot recommend Dr. Namgu Kim highly enough. His expertise is exceptional, his communication is clear, and his compassion is unmatched. I walked out feeling informed, supported, and surprisingly excited about the next steps. Thank you!

Nick L.