As an adult, you might assume that Invisalign clear aligners are out of the question. Whether you wore metal braces as a teenager or not, the hope of seeing a straighter smile without having to wear traditional brackets and wires isn’t a possibility, or is it? Many older individuals ask, “Am I too old for Invisalign” when meeting with their dentist. Fortunately, age is just a number when it comes to orthodontics. Read on to discover how you can still achieve a healthier, straighter smile with more subtle treatment.
What You Should Realize
You should first realize that being “too old” for Invisalign is a myth. Older adults can still see results with clear aligners just like teenagers and younger individuals. The only aspect that will be different is that it may take longer to complete treatment. The reason is that although each patient is different, the older you are, the more established and “set” your teeth are within their current location. This doesn’t mean they won’t shift because they certainly will, but you may be required to wear your aligners longer than someone who is in their 20s or 30s.
Why Seniors Make Ideal Invisalign Patients
There are many reasons why Invisalign for seniors is a good idea, such as:
- Older patients like yourself are more committed to the process, as you’ve likely discovered the difficulties that can come with misaligned teeth.
- Seniors considering Invisalign often do not take their health for granted. Younger patients may not recognize the true importance of good oral health whereas, older individuals know tooth loss, cavities, gum disease, and other problematic situations can take a toll on one’s smile and overall health year after year.
- They’re more likely to listen to the dentist and stick to the program according to the instructions provided. Because these trays require patients to wear them 20-22 hours each day for optimal movement, older adults will adhere to the recommendations and do what is necessary to reach their goals.
- Older individuals will be more apt to practice better oral hygiene to ensure they achieve their results. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to avoid decay and gum disease while undergoing Invisalign. While teenagers and younger adults might assume it’s not a big deal, seniors will take the additional time to make sure teeth and gums remain healthy throughout treatment.
Invisalign offers patients of all ages the opportunity to embrace healthier, straighter teeth. It’s never too late to get started, so make sure to speak to your dentist to find out what you can do to realign your smile for good.
About the Practice
At Smile More Dentistry, our team is committed to providing patients with high-quality orthodontic care. Using Invisalign clear aligners, individuals of all ages can achieve the smiles of their dreams using this subtle and discreet method of treatment. Capable of generating results without compromising daily appearances, this orthodontic solution is a great alternative to traditional, metal braces. If you are an older adult who is interested in pursuing Invisalign, visit our website or call (845) 675-1512.