Invisalign® and Age
In recent years Invisalign® has become a popular teeth straightening option for individuals with malocclusion problems. Invisalign can correct many of the same issues as traditional orthodontics, but it offers several unique benefits over braces. Invisalign uses clear aligners to correct the position of the teeth and jaw more comfortably and conveniently than braces.
When people are considering Invisalign treatment, they often wonder if the procedure is right for someone their age. Here, dentists from Staten Island Aesthetic & Implant Dentist, in Staten Island, NY, discuss Invisalign and age, and whether or not this teeth straightening method is an appropriate treatment option at the different stages of our patients’ lives.
Invisalign and Children
There is no minimum age at which a patient is considered an ideal candidate for Invisalign treatment. However, generally speaking, orthodontics are not recommended until a child has reached at least the age of seven, and often later.
As a child grows, their teeth and jaw can continue to shift, and adult teeth will grow in as baby teeth are lost. Any of these changes could affect the results of orthodontic treatment, which is why most patients do not undergo treatment for malocclusion problems until their pre-teen or teen years.
If a child is deemed an appropriate candidate for orthodontic treatment, Invisalign could be an option. However, it is important to note that Invisalign aligners are removable. Getting a child to wear their aligners for the minimum 20–22 hours a day that is necessary for treatment to be a success could be difficult, so most children are better suited for traditional braces.
Invisalign and Teens
Most people begin orthodontic treatment during their teen years. As long as a teenager is responsible enough to wear their aligners as directed, and is willing to take care of their aligners, they should be ideal candidates for Invisalign. Most teens prefer Invisalign over braces because the aligners are virtually invisible, which makes treatment discreet. It is also much easier to care for the teeth with Invisalign than it is with braces, since aligners can be removed while a person brushes and flosses. Finally, most people find Invisalign far more comfortable than braces, since there are no metal wires and brackets to scrape against the soft tissues of the mouth.
Invisalign and Adults
Although malocclusion problems are often corrected during the teen years, many adults come to our Staten Island practice to request orthodontic treatment. Adults may need treatment for issues that were never corrected during their youth, or for issues that have re-emerged following earlier braces treatment. Adults tend to be excellent candidates for Invisalign. As with teens, adults often prefer Invisalign for its discreet appearance, as well as the convenience that comes with removable aligners.
Invisalign and Seniors
Just as there is no minimum age at which a person becomes an Invisalign candidate, there is no maximum age for Invisalign treatment. If a person is in their 60s or 70s when they decide they are ready to get a straighter smile, Invisalign may be an excellent option.
Get in Touch
If crooked teeth or a misaligned bite are compromising the health, function, or beauty of your smile, you may be an ideal candidate for Invisalign treatment. To learn more about this popular teeth straightening method, send us a message online, or call (718) 705-4434 and request an appointment at Staten Island Aesthetic & Implant Dentist.