From Happy Gilmore 2 to the resurgence of Y2K style, the past has been making a serious comeback. This wave of nostalgia has even entered orthodontics, with metal braces suddenly becoming a must-have accessory again.
Once considered a rite of passage for teenagers, today a growing number of adults, especially those in their 20s and 30s, are choosing metal braces proudly over clear aligners. In fact, The Washington Post recently published a piece highlighting the rise of adults who want to show off their shiny stainless-steel smiles instead of hiding them.
At Jeffrey Kwong Orthodontics, my team and I love that our El Dorado Hills and Folsom dental braces patients are embracing this confident trend. Whether you’re interested in traditional silver metal braces or stylish gold braces, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.
Here are 9 things to know about the return of metal braces (and how you can make them your own).
1. Adult Braces are On the Rise
Over the past decade, the number of adult orthodontic patients has increased dramatically. A 2025 American Association of Orthodontists survey found that an estimated 1.91 million adults in the U.S. are currently receiving treatment from its members (up from 1.64 million in 2022).
Why is this? Well, there are a variety of reasons adults seek orthodontic treatment, including:
- Fine-tuning their smile now that they’re older/li>
- Fixing relapsed teeth after forgetting to wear their retainer/li>
- Not having the opportunity to get braces when they were younger
While adult orthodontics isn’t new, what is different today is the growing popularity of metal braces for adults. At our El Dorado Hills office, I’ve had patients request adult braces instead of opting for Spark™ Aligners or Invisalign®.
The fact that grown-ups are embracing the precision, reliability, and even the style of metal dental braces proves that braces aren’t just for teens anymore.
2. Metal Braces are Sometimes Viewed as a Status Symbol
Instead of being something to hide, many people now see metal dental braces as a badge of self-care, a symbol that they can afford to take care of themselves, and a sign of confidence.
One of the people interviewed in The Washington Post story said that he didn’t feel the need to hide the fact that he was straightening his teeth by getting clear aligners. He said he chose metal braces because they’re a bold way to show off his pride in his journey of self-improvement.
That sentiment captures exactly why I love seeing patients embrace this trend!
3. Today’s Metal Braces are Sleeker and More Comfortable
Forget the bulky brackets from decades ago. Modern stainless steel braces are smaller, smoother, and more comfortable. The brackets are paired with shape-memory nickel-titanium wires (though the type of material changes depending on your stage of treatment) to guide teeth into place with fewer adjustments and less pain.
No matter what type of braces you choose, in the hands of an experienced orthodontist, the appliance will straighten your teeth with accuracy and comfort.
4. Braces are More Convenient Than Clear Aligners for Some Patients
Another reason some of our El Dorado Hills and Folsom dental braces patients skip clear aligners is that they feel braces are more low-maintenance. While aligners require about 22 hours of daily wear and must be taken in and out to eat, drink, and brush and floss, braces stay in place and work continuously.
This can be an advantage for patients with busy schedules who don’t want to add one more thing to their to-do list or those who struggle to keep track of removable trays.
Considering jumping on the hardware trend? Check out our braces before and after photos to see how treatment can transform your smile.
Visit Our Smile Gallery5. Braces are Customizable With Elastics
If you love the timeless look, silver metal braces remain the go-to. They’re what most people picture when they think about orthodontics. Even more importantly, you can personalize your smile throughout treatment with colorful elastics.
This makes the appliance both functional and fun. Change up your braces colors for holidays, in honor of your favorite sports teams, or to reflect the season.
6. Gold Braces are a Stylish Twist
Want to elevate your personal style? Gold braces are just as effective as traditional silver, but they come coated in a subtle golden finish. Some patients choose gold dental braces because they have a luxe look and aren’t as common as their silver counterparts.
And the best part? The cost of gold braces is comparable to other options, so you don’t have to break the bank for a little extra shine (Pssst…they’re not 10-18K gold like the fillings of back in the day; gold is actually too soft).
7. Braces are a Smart Investment
When you choose braces, you’re making an investment that lasts a lifetime. Straight teeth aren’t just about confidence (though that is a major bonus); they improve oral health, make brushing and flossing easier, and can even prevent jaw pain or uneven wear, chipping and cracking of teeth.
Whether you go with metal braces or another type, the results speak for themselves. Just check out our braces before and after transformations!
8. Avoid Fake Fashion Braces
I won’t link to the endless fake braces options you can buy online because I don’t want to draw any more attention to them than necessary. While it certainly illustrates the skyrocketing appeal of traditional metal braces, these faux brackets and wires are dangerous.
The American Association of Orthodontists released a May 2024 report highlighting the risks of DIY fashion braces, which include poisoning, choking, infections, damaged teeth, worsening misalignment, and more.
If you need a reminder of the importance of seeing a certified specialist in orthodontics for braces or clear aligners and steering clear of direct-to-consumer devices, read these posts:
9. You Have Options at Jeffrey Kwong Orthodontics
At Jeffrey Kwong Orthodontics, my team and I offer a variety of different types of braces, including:
- Stainless steel braces (the classic)
- Gold braces (stylish yet subtle)
- Clear braces (low-profile and less noticeable)
- Spark Aligners for patients who want a virtually invisible, removable option
No matter your style, comfort level, or budget, I’ll help you find the best fit for your smile goals and aesthetic.
Ready to Rock Your Metal Braces?
Join our El Dorado Hills and Folsom dental braces patients who are showing off their hardware with pride. Whether you’re ready to get started or you’re just curious about your braces options, my team and I are here to help.
At Jeffrey Kwong Orthodontics, we make the process fun, stress-free, and effective for patients of all ages, including adults!
Book your free consultation today and see how braces can transform your smile.
