Who Can Get Invisalign®?
If you or your child have crooked, misaligned or widely-spaced teeth, traditional braces might not be the only treatment option. Invisalign clear aligners are a more comfortable and discreet alternative to braces that can help with a wide range of orthodontic issues, though they’re not suitable for everyone.
Your dentist can tell you whether Invisalign is a good fit for your needs and your lifestyle. Read this guide to find out who can get Invisalign ‘invisible’ aligners and book a consultation with our dentists in Mosman today.
What can Invisalign fix?
Invisalign aligners can treat most of the same orthodontic concerns that braces can, including:
- Overbite
- Open bite
- Crooked teeth
- Crowding
- Gaps between teeth
More complex conditions such as underbite or crossbite can sometimes be treated with Invisalign, though this can depend on their severity and the expertise of your dentist. If you have a more complex case that requires more intensive adjustment, your dentist may recommend discreet brace options instead.
What age is Invisalign suitable for?
Invisalign was originally developed for older teenagers and adults who desired a less intrusive option for straightening teeth than braces. As with other orthodontic treatments, Invisalign can offer more predictable results for teens and young adults whose teeth and jaws are still developing and easier to guide into their desired position, but the treatment can also be successful for older adults.
Invisalign also offers options for younger teens and children from as young as 6 years. Your child’s dentist will discuss the best options for their situation.
Other considerations for Invisalign treatment
Besides age and orthodontic issues, other factors can affect your eligibility for Invisalign treatment. These include:
- Oral health: You must commit to maintaining healthy teeth and gums and having regular dental check-ups during the course of your Invisalign treatment, as poor oral health can interrupt the process.
- Bone density: Your treatment may take longer or be less predictable if you have a denser jawbone.
- Compliance: Removable aligners require more commitment than fixed braces, as you need to wear them for at least 20 hours a day.
- Existing dental work: If you have crowns, veneers or other tooth restorations, these may impact on the success of the treatment.
Alternatives to Invisalign aligners
If your dentist tells you that you’re not a candidate for Invisalign treatment, or you want to know your other options, you may be suitable for:
- Braces: Options such as tooth-coloured ceramic braces and lingual braces that attach behind the teeth are less visible than standard metal braces.
- Crowns: If you only need to straighten one or several teeth, placing a crown over the top could be more convenient than using aligners.
- Veneers: Porcelain veneers and composite veneers can change the appearance of slightly crooked or misaligned teeth, though these are not suitable for more complex cases.
Discuss Invisalign in Mosman today
If you’re thinking about getting Invisalign aligners or want to discuss other options for teeth straightening, get in touch with our friendly team at Mosman 3D Dental to schedule a consultation with our Invisalign dentist. Call us today on (02) 9969 8610 or book online.