Am I a Candidate for Invisalign®?

It’s a classic problem faced by people everywhere: you want to correct your smile, but you don’t want to wear metal braces. Thanks to the advent of clear aligner therapy and Invisalign®, you don’t have to choose. This revolutionary invisible option is a great option for most people but not everyone.

At Supertooth Dental Group in Chevy Chase, Maryland, our team counsels hundreds of patients on choosing the right orthodontic treatment to get the brilliant results and optimal oral health you want and need. Here’s his expert advice for those wondering whether Invisalign is right for them.

Are you the right age?

There’s no age requirement for Invisalign, but your age may play a role in whether or not it’s the best treatment for you. Here’s why.

In some cases, children benefit greatly from orthodontic care early in their development, around age 7-9. However, not all alignment problems should be treated this early. Our team practices a conservative treatment philosophy and examines your child’s teeth and bite.  He will let you know whether early orthodontic treatment, called phase I, is needed at this point or if it’s better to take a wait-and-see approach.

Think you’re too old for Invisalign? There’s no age that’s beyond the scope of these advanced clear aligners. Adults are seeking orthodontic care in unprecedented numbers, so join the throngs of grown-ups getting treatment for their crooked teeth.

Do you have a problem that Invisalign can fix?

Invisalign can fix a long list of common malocclusion problems, including crossbite, overbite, underbite, and open bite. This progressive treatment can also address gapped teeth and overcrowded teeth. The clear trays snap over your teeth, applying gentle but consistent pressure that moves your teeth into a healthier position over time. Come see Supertooth Dental Group for a complimentary consultation to see if Invisalign is right for you!

Are you able and willing?

Invisalign is a removable orthodontic device that needs to be worn at least 20-22 hours a day. Some children (and even some adults) don’t have the self-discipline to maintain that schedule responsibly. 

Children capable of understanding the treatment requirement may be good candidates, but those who may be prone to forgetting to wear their trays or those who lose or break them would probably be better served by braces. 

Likewise, adults who face mental challenges that might prevent them from following the Invisalign schedule diligently may get more benefit from fixed braces.

Do you need a discreet option?

Of course, most people say they would prefer to wear invisible aligners rather than metal braces, but some may actually need them. Our team treats many patients whose occupations put them in the public eye, where appearance is part of their job description. 

But whether or not metal braces would hinder your work, you may feel more comfortable interacting with others without the barrier of visible braces. In these cases, Invisalign may be right for you.

There are many reasons to consider Invisalign clear aligners. The only way to know for sure if you’re a good candidate for this innovative approach to teeth straightening is to see Supertooth Dental Group for a thorough orthodontic evaluation. To schedule an appointment, call us or book online today.