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Am I Too Old for Invisalign? Everything You Need to Know About Teeth Straightening As An Adult

03/07/2024

The position of your teeth can make you feel self-conscious about your smile. If your teeth are crooked, overcrowded, or gappy, you may also experience dental problems. Teeth straightening can fix these issues, improving the aesthetics and health of your smile. 

Braces and aligners are common on teenage smiles but less frequently seen on adults. This might lead you to believe that treatments like Invisalign are unsuitable once you hit your 20s. 

On the contrary, Invisalign can treat adults. So, why do fewer adults receive treatments, and what do you need to know as an adult seeking Invisalign treatment? 

In this article, we’ll examine teeth straightening as an adult, discuss the considerations, and explain why it’s not too late! 

Invisalign Is Not Just for Teens!

Although it’s true teenagers form the largest group that receives teeth straightening, treatment is not exclusive to people around this age. 

There are several practical reasons for straightening teeth between the ages of 12 and 13, but that doesn’t mean treatment doesn’t work in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or beyond. 

As a young teenager’s permanent teeth appear and their jaw develops, we start to see how their smile will look for life. Treatment at this age reduces the potential long-term health risks associated with misaligned teeth, like cavities, uneven tooth wear, jaw pain, and speech and chewing problems. 

This is also often a good time to straighten teeth because younger teens are often less self-conscious. The treatment is also less likely to impact exams or significant life changes like moving to university. 

As an adult, the most significant barrier to treatment is often feeling self-conscious. Invisalign’s clear aligner system is so discreet you won’t have to worry about how it looks. It’s virtually invisible. 

How Does Invisalign Work?

Teeth straightening treatments use constant force to move your teeth —whether you choose Invisalign or a fixed system. The difference is that Invisalign uses a series of clear removable aligners, while fixed braces use brackets and a wire attached to your teeth. 

Invisalign offers a subtle and convenient solution. During your treatment, you’ll change aligners every two weeks. Each aligner is custom-made to fit your smile and move your teeth closer to their perfect position. 

Why Choose Invisalign?

Invisalign is almost invisible. It’s also very discreet because it’s shaped perfectly to fit your teeth. This makes it perfect for anyone who doesn’t want to draw attention to their teeth straightening treatment. 

You can take your aligner out whenever needed. This means you won’t have to worry about food getting trapped in your appliance, and keeping your teeth and aligners clean is easier. 

Invisalign is predictable. If you stick to the treatment plan and wear your aligner for at least 22 hours every day, you’ll get the smile you’ve always wanted. 

Who Can Have Invisalign?

Invisalign suits anyone with mild to moderate crowding, spacing, or bite alignment issues. There is no age limit, and every aligner is made specifically for the wearer. For the desired outcome, you’ll need to commit to the treatment plan and wear your aligner as instructed. 

In more advanced cases where the necessary tooth movements are too great, fixed braces can help. 

We’ll advise you on your suitability for Invisalign during your initial consultation. 

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

Every smile is different, and the duration of your custom treatment will depend on how much we need to move your teeth. Treatment lengths can vary from six months to two years. We’ll advise you on the expected length of treatment at your initial consultation. 

Invisalign in Canary Wharf

Invisalign is a subtle and effective teeth-straightening treatment that’s ideal for adults. The comfortable, removable aligners are barely noticeable and don’t require any lifestyle changes. Contact us today to book your initial Invisalign consultation.