Gapped, rotated, and overcrowded teeth are more than an aesthetic problem. Alignment issues can affect your dental health and oral functions negatively. Whether you missed your chance for braces as a teen or your teeth have shifted, it’s never too late to invest in the benefits of a straight smile. Brackets and wires aren’t your only option. You may be a candidate for Invisalign. There’s no age limit for clear aligners, but there are a few things you should know.
There’s No Age Limit for Straight Teeth
Misaligned teeth are more difficult to clean effectively, increasing your risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Not to mention, you may suffer from jaw pain and other complications.
Fixing your bite and alignment will make it easier to keep your teeth clean and stop jaw problems. With your oral health and overall wellness connected, you can invest in a healthy mouth and body with Invisalign.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign differs from traditional metal braces. A series of aligners are fabricated to be worn over your teeth for at least 22 hours per day. Each aligner applies gentle pressure to specific teeth to move them in small increments. You’ll wear each set of aligners for 1 to 2 weeks, as instructed by your orthodontist. This provides a comfortable and discreet solution to fix many alignment and bite concerns.
Older Adults and Invisalign
Your age doesn’t matter when it comes to your candidacy for clear aligners. However, older adults can have untreated dental problems, like cavities and gum disease. Your mouth must be healthy before any orthodontic treatment. It’s not unusual to require a little prep work, like a dental filling, gum disease treatment, or a cleaning.
The average treatment with Invisalign takes 12 to 18 months, but many factors affect the timeline, including your age. Teens often have shorter treatment times because they are still growing and developing, so their teeth move more easily. Older adults may experience slower tooth movements, which can extend their timeline.
Benefit from the Clear Choice
Invisalign is a perfect solution for adults who don’t want to compromise their appearance to improve their smile. Invisalign is virtually undetectable when worn over your teeth. Each aligner is custom-fit to ensure comfort and precise tooth movements.
Since your aligners are not affixed to your teeth, there are no dietary restrictions. However, you must take your aligners out before having anything except water. You’ll also spend less time in the orthodontist’s chair because you won’t need appointments for adjustments. You’ll still need to check in with your orthodontist every few weeks.
About Dr. Sean Willcutts
Dr. Willcutts earned his dental degree at the Boston University Goldman School of Dentistry and completed a three-year residency in orthodontics. He is a board-certified orthodontist, who specializes in Invisalign. Request an appointment through his website or contact our office to speak with a member of his dental team.