Are your teeth giving you grief as you age? Have you wished there was a pain-free and hassle-free way of correcting minor imperfections in your smile without resorting to traditional braces? Invisalign might be the ideal solution.
This innovative orthodontic system combines cutting-edge technology with clear, removable aligners to gradually transform your smile without earning yourself an unsightly metal mouth. But is it right for you? Read on to learn the Invisalign pros and cons for older adults!
Invisalign treatment process
Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that helps close gaps and straightens teeth without needing traditional metal braces. This revolutionary treatment can help individuals achieve the beautiful, healthy smile they desire in a much shorter time than traditional braces.
During the Invisalign treatment process, patients will typically begin by having a consultation with their orthodontist. During this appointment, the orthodontist will assess the condition of the patient’s teeth and discuss any issues that need to be addressed while they are in treatment.
Following the initial consultation, patients will receive custom-made aligners that they will wear for most of the day. Every two weeks, the patient will need to switch to a new set of aligners designed to move their teeth in stages until the desired alignment is achieved. Patients may also be asked to wear retainers at night or at specific times throughout the day to help keep the teeth aligned after treatment. But, don’t worry, all this effort is worth it.
Invisalign pros for older adults
For older adults considering orthodontic treatment, Invisalign presents a highly effective, discreet, and comfortable way to achieve perfect alignment. Some of its advantages are:
1. Less noticeable
If you are an aging adult who is contemplating getting braces, the visibility of metal braces can be a huge source of discomfort. Fortunately, Invisalign offers an inconspicuous solution as these aligners are clear plastic and cannot be seen by others. With this treatment option, you can straighten your teeth without anybody even knowing about it!
2. Comfortable
Another advantage of Invisalign over metal braces is that they are more comfortable to wear. Metal braces can rub against your cheeks and gums, irritating them. Invisalign aligners, however, are made of smooth plastic, making them much more comfortable to wear.
3. Faster treatment
If you’re an older adult, you may not want to have to wear braces for a long time. With Invisalign, treatment is typically much faster than with metal braces. Invisalign aligners are also removable, so you can take them out for special occasions if necessary.
4. You can still eat whatever you want
With metal braces, there are certain foods that you must avoid to prevent damage to the brackets and wires. With Invisalign, you can eat whatever you want, as there are no brackets or wires to worry about. However, you still should brush and floss regularly to maintain good oral hygiene.
5. Brush and floss normally
Another advantage of Invisalign over metal braces is that you can brush and floss your teeth normally. With metal braces, it is not easy to reach all of your teeth properly when brushing and flossing. This can lead to plaque buildup and an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
6. Long-lasting results
Invisalign produces long-lasting results with minimal maintenance once treatment is complete. Traditional braces require more checkups and adjustments, which may not be practical for some older adults.
7. Non-invasive treatment
Many older patients find that Invisalign is a non-invasive and discreet way to get the straight teeth they desire without having to undergo major surgery or other invasive treatments.
Invisalign cons for older adults
While Invisalign is generally safe and effective for patients of all ages, there are some potential cons that older adults should be aware of before considering this treatment.
1. Cost
One of the main disadvantages of Invisalign is its cost. While cheaper than traditional braces in many cases, it still may be more expensive for some patients than other treatments such as retainers or removable aligners.
2. Time
Invisalign can take more time to achieve the desired results than other treatments, although this varies from patient to patient. Generally, treatment times can last between 12 and 24 months and may require weekly visits to the orthodontist during that period.
3. Maintenance
Finally, while Invisalign has minimal maintenance requirements once treatment is over, it does require greater discipline on the part of the user in terms of wearing their aligners as directed and keeping them clean.
Final Thoughts: Invisalign Pros and Cons for Older Adults
At Embrace Orthodontics, we understand that older adults can benefit significantly from having Invisalign. This incredible treatment offers better results than traditional braces, with the added bonus of being nearly invisible during wear.
If you’re an older adult considering orthodontic care, make sure to book a free appointment with us at Embrace Orthodontics so that our highly qualified orthodontists can assess your needs and recommend the best course of action for you! We are committed to providing superior services at unbeatable prices so you can have a beautiful smile at any age.