Dental alignment issues such as underbites, overbites, crossbites, and open bites can lead to a range of unpleasant consequences such as uneven dental wear, teeth grinding, hygiene difficulties, and even neck, back, head, and jaw pain. While many adults live with misaligned teeth, some of them may wonder if they are too old for orthodontic treatment. Here’s a brief guide to how Invisalign works and why it can be an excellent option for adult patients of all ages.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign is a modern alternative to traditional braces that realigns teeth using a sequence of customized clear aligners. These devices are designed to fit snugly over the teeth while exerting the constant pressure necessary to gradually shift them into healthier positions. Each aligner must be worn for about two weeks before it is swapped for the next one in the sequence, and the patient must thoroughly clean their teeth before reinserting their appliances to prevent treatment-delaying dental stains and tooth decay.
Can Invisalign Treat Older Adults?
While orthodontic treatment is typically associated with adolescents and younger adults, Invisalign can be great for adults of any age. Many older people didn’t have their misalignments addressed with braces in their youths, and many others find that their teeth begin drifting out of alignment in the years after their initial orthodontic treatments. In cases of minor dental misalignments, Invisalign may be a comfortable and discreet way for older people to achieve more gorgeous smiles.
Is Invisalign Different for Older Adults?
While Invisalign works for older adults in the same way that it does for younger people, certain factors can make the process slightly different. Older Invisalign patients may experience:
- Longer treatment times: The oral structures of older adults are more solidified than those of younger ones, which means that it typically takes longer to address their alignment issues.
- Preliminary treatments: Older adults can be more likely to have tooth decay and gum disease, and these issues will have to be resolved before Invisalign treatment can begin.
- Oral hygiene concerns: Some older adults have issues like arthritis that can make proper oral hygiene difficult. These individuals may benefit from using specialized tools such as electric toothbrushes or water flossers to make their oral care easier.
Don’t let concerns about your age stand in the way of achieving a gorgeously straight smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you find out if Invisalign can be an excellent treatment for you.
About the Author
Dr. Aliana Henkin earned her dental degree at Rutgers School of Dental Medicine and was a member of the Gamma Pi Delta Prosthodontic Honor Society. She is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association and the New Jersey Dental Association. Her office in Springfield offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign services. To schedule your Invisalign consultation, contact her office online or dial (973) 949-0925.