Invisalign is one of the most sought-after treatment options for adults and teens alike. Why is this orthodontic approach so popular? Its discreet and comfortable design is the reason that so many people prefer Invisalign to fixed braces. Although adult and teen treatment are similar and both can improve dental health, there are several differences between the treatment processes for kids and adults. Our team at Williams Family and Cosmetic Dentistry can help you decide whether Invisalign is right for you or your child. For patients and families in Brandon, FL, our team can determine if Invisalign can treat their specific orthodontic issue.
How Invisalign® Works For Adults & Teens
Invisalign for teens and adults utilizes custom, clear plastic aligners to move teeth into more desirable positions. Clear aligners are worn over a specific period of time until the patient wears the following tray in the series. The clear aligners can treat various dental issues:
- Mild or severe crowding of teeth.
- Large or small spaces or “gaps” between teeth.
- Malocclusions (mild or moderate bites).
- Crooked teeth.
- Rotated teeth.
- Relapsed teeth (teeth have shifted from a previous orthodontic treatment).
Because Invisalign aligners are removable and almost invisible, patients may find more comfort than traditional metal braces.
Invisalign® For Teens
Teenagers can often grow more teeth than children, and they can benefit from more advanced treatment. In some cases, teens can take advantage of their growth to treat certain problems at a greater rate. As well, the clear, removable aligners provide several advantages for active teens:
- Teenagers can remove the aligners during sports or school events for a comfortable fit.
- Parents and children can maintain regular dental hygiene routines.
- There are fewer foods that you cannot have during Invisalign treatment.
For teens to get the best results out of Invisalign, it’s vital that they remember to take their aligners out before meals and snacks, and put their aligners back in after.
Invisalign® For Adults
Adult patients may worry about their age as a factor in Invisalign treatment, but adults are often eligible for Invisalign. Adults may benefit from Invisalign treatment because their teeth have become misaligned over time or because they want to have a better smile as an adult.
Adults can also enjoy the discreet nature of Invisalign. Adults can wear their aligners for social and professional events and still get the orthodontic work they need done. As well, adults enjoy the flexibility of Invisalign over traditional braces for the same reasons that teens do. It also makes maintaining optimal dental hygiene easy because aligners can be removed at the end of every day. It’s important for adult patients to know that Invisalign requires a consistent wear schedule for the best orthodontic results. Our team at Williams Family and Cosmetic Dentistry can give you an idea of whether Invisalign can be right for you or if we can refer you to the nearest Invisalign provider. For many adult patients, the aesthetic quality of the aligners is often the first factor they consider.
Distinguishing Factors Of Teen & Adult Treatment
While there is very little difference in the mechanics of the aligner itself, lifestyle changes can sometimes affect how a patient’s care is managed. For example, a teen patient may need extra support to remember to wear them. A hectic school schedule, extra-curricular commitments, or social events, all of which teens face regularly, can interfere with their ability to wear the aligners for the appropriate amount of time.
Conversely, adult patients usually require very little prompting to maintain proper wear times; however, they may struggle to do this when they are at work, away on business, or on a night out. Regardless of age, each of these groups benefits by following these daily routines:
- Wearing the aligners the appropriate amount of time daily.
- Removing the aligners for meals and beverages other than plain water.
- Keeping up with proper teeth brushing and flossing routines.
- Attending regular appointments with your orthodontic provider.
It cannot be emphasized enough: consistent care is the key to successful treatment results!
Considerations Of Treatment Complexity & The Patient's Objectives
While both adults and teens can be good candidates for Invisalign, they each have varying reasons for seeking treatment. For a teen patient, the focus is usually on treating a developing case of misalignment so their teeth will be straight by the time they reach adulthood.
An adult patient, however, often has different objectives. Invisalign could be an option after many years of having their teeth move, wear, fall out, or be restored. In some of these adult cases, Invisalign might be a piece of a larger treatment plan involving cosmetic dentistry and restorative care. Regardless of your age, we’ll carefully evaluate the needs of each individual and develop an appropriate treatment plan that will meet your orthodontic and aesthetic goals!
The Advantages Shared By Adults & Teens
Why Is This Treatment Option So Popular?
Many advantages of Invisalign are the same for teens and adults:
- Nearly invisible aligners.
- Ability to take the aligners out for meals and oral care.
- Increased comfort over traditional braces.
- Fewer dietary restrictions.
- A customized treatment experience.
This is why Invisalign is a popular orthodontic choice!
Contact Williams Family & Cosmetic Dentistry To Inquire About Invisalign®
At Williams Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we realize that no two smiles are alike. Whether you are in Brandon, FL, and looking into orthodontic treatment for your teenager, or if you are an adult looking into this treatment yourself, our team is here to help you understand your options and feel comfortable with your treatment plan.
Each patient will be given an individualized assessment in conjunction with our team to determine if this is the proper treatment for you. We will also take the time to explain what treatment will entail, and create an aligner treatment plan that fits your needs. It is for these reasons that we have become a trusted option for patients seeking orthodontic treatment in the Brandon, FL area.
For more information about whether you or your family member might be a candidate for Invisalign, please contact our office and schedule a consultation with our team today.