With patients of all ages wanting to improve their smile, whether Invisalign makes sense at different times in life is a question we are often asked.
The medical answer is that the decision is about oral health and bone density, more than age itself. Patients in their 80s have been successfully treated with Invisalign, treatment in mid life is quite normal.
There is a special system for young children, called Phase 1, or first aligners. They are designed to develop young jaws, make room for existing teeth and incoming teeth, or help to solve pre-existing bite problems.
Teenagers and those on their 20s may make up a good share of Invisalign patients but age in itself is not a barrier. The decision you and a skilled orthodontist will make is whether they are the best choice for you.
Factors To Consider
Your orthodontist will check to see that bone density is not a problem, along with considering and discussing any other medical factors.
Orthodontics is primarily about correcting malocclusion, although wider aspects of your oral health need to be considered, for the present time and with a view to the future.
Invisalign is an adaptable system, made for the individual. A young person’s teeth are not as firmly fixed in position, so they may need to wear aligners for a shorter time, providing they stick to the system.
Removable aligners are valuable but should be worn most of the day. Older patients can find keeping to this discipline easier than their younger counterparts, bringing a quicker conclusion to treatment.
Shared Benefits
The aesthetic advantages of clear, removable aligners apply at any age. They have changed the attitude to wearing braces, addressing concerns ranging from peer group perception, to business and social needs.
Being designed to treat a range of issues makes them suitable at all ages, from crowding, to unsuitable spacing, or narrow dental arches.
The ability to remove them makes life easier for growing children, when they brush, or floss. This is still an advantage for all of us, as is the level of comfort and avoidance of rubbing brackets, or poking wires.
We are one of London’s leading providers of Invisalign treatment, which has allowed us to support patients of all ages. This is not in itself a concern, our main wish is to ensure that you make the best, personal choice.
