Invisalign aligner technology is suitable for most people but it’s important to understand who is a good candidate. Like any treatment, it isn’t suitable for everyone. Some people may need to straighten their teeth differently, while others may be less suited for orthodontic treatment.
If any contraindications are present, we can suggest alternative treatments and solutions.
General Eligibility
If you are to be an ideal candidate for Invisalign treatment, you will need to meet certain criteria, including:
- You shouldn’t have any serious orthodontic issues that may require more advanced treatments.
- You must be willing to follow our Invisalign dentist’s instructions closely. Adhering to the guidelines will help ensure better treatment results.
- If you have any dental problems like active gum disease or untreated tooth decay, you may need restorative treatment before you can have Invisalign.
- Problems with your jaw joints or existing restorations like dental implants or dental bridges may affect your suitability for treatment. However, we might be able to work around these issues.
- Your teeth must be generally strong and healthy and able to move safely.
Age Requirements
There are no upper age restrictions provided you can meet other eligibility criteria and have reasonable dental and general health. Many seniors now choose to have Invisalign treatment, especially as it can be a nice retirement present.
Usually, Invisalign is prescribed for adult patients, but there is a system specially designed for teens, Invisalign Teen, which can be suitable for older children, provided they follow the guidelines.
Invisalign First is designed for younger children requiring phase 1 or early orthodontic treatment. Its purpose is to help develop young jaws, creating enough room for incoming permanent teeth to erupt normally.
Dental Issues Treatable with Invisalign
Advanced Invisalign technology can now treat different types of uneven bite. These include:
It can also treat more complex issues using attachments that are fixed onto teeth before or during treatment and which help provide aligners with additional leverage. The attachments help the aligners grip onto teeth more accurately, resulting in more precise tooth movements.
Invisalign can treat minor problems quickly and effectively, as well as more complicated issues. However, some problems may require fixed braces to correct them more effectively.
Evaluating Your Suitability for Invisalign
Your treatment journey begins with a consultation at our dental practice. Our certified Invisalign provider will assess your teeth and jaws and discuss this treatment with you further.
This appointment aims to understand your treatment goals. It allows you to learn more about what’s involved and ask any questions. We can discuss the results you can expect if you follow the treatment plan properly.
Our dentist can provide an estimate of probable costs, but the final estimate can only be given after we carry out diagnostic scanning and imaging tests.
Digital Scanning and Imaging
Invisalign uses the latest digital scanning and imaging technology to create your custom treatment plan. Our Invisalign dentist will digitally scan your teeth, creating an accurate digital 3-D model that is used to create your treatment plan.
Invisalign’s proprietary software lets our dentist plan how each tooth moves. The predicted results are then viewable by you as digital images.
Once we have created your treatment plan, we can walk you through it and discuss what to expect in greater detail.
“ Great experience, they were very thorough about my scan and what to expect with the timeline of the invisalign. Staff is very friendly. Camera man made me laugh through the process. I definitely recommend. “
Yvette Merced Invisalign Patient
Discussing What Is Required During Treatment
Invisalign is very easy to use, but it is vital to understand what is required during your treatment. Although you don’t need to change your diet as you remove your aligners for mealtimes, you must follow a good oral care routine.
In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, you must brush your teeth after every meal and clean your aligners before replacing them. Failing to clean your teeth or aligners will increase your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Excellent compliance is vital, so be prepared to wear your aligners all the time and at least 22 hours daily. We would prefer that you only remove them for meals and oral care.
You will need regular appointments during your treatment, usually every 6 to 8 weeks. Even though these appointments are short, they are vital, so you must attend.
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As you can see, Invisalign is straightforward to use, but if you think you will have difficulty complying with the treatment plan or have lax oral care, it may not be the right treatment for you. Our expert orthodontist Dr. Simons will diagnose you and recommend the most effective and suitable orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions about Inivsalign aligners or want to book a consultation, contact Brooklyn Invisalign Center at (718) 375-3757.