As you survey your smile in the mirror, are you asking yourself, “Am I too old for Invisalign?” You no longer want to see crooked teeth staring back at you each morning before work, but you’re worried metal braces may be the only way to achieve your desired look. Fortunately, no matter your age, clear aligners can shift your teeth and produce results that allow for better oral health and a more pleasing aesthetic. Here are 3 reasons Invisalign for seniors is a clear possibility.
You Are Financially Stable
As an older adult, there is a good chance you are more financially stable than someone who has recently graduated high school or college. Although teens and younger individuals may prefer the look of Invisalign, the truth is that traditional braces are less expensive, which can be a better option for someone who has mounting student loans, rent, a mortgage, or is simply awaiting their first real paycheck. You may be at a time in your life when many of the financial factors that were once a burden are no longer an issue, allowing you to pursue this method of orthodontic treatment more confidently and comfortably.
You Understand the Importance of Optimal Oral Health
Keeping teeth and gums clean while wearing Invisalign is key. Unfortunately, younger generations can take their natural teeth for granted, assuming they’ll always be there and believing they’ll never face any “real” problems. Maintaining optimal oral hygiene while wearing Invisalign clear aligners is essential to minimizing the risk for tooth decay and/or gum disease. Older adults like yourself tend to better understand this, especially if you’ve dealt with the difficulties of poor oral health and its effects on your smile. As a result, you’ll be more likely to stay on top of your brushing, flossing, and rinsing while wearing Invisalign.
You Are More Committed to the Process
Patients must wear Invisalign trays for 20-22 hours each day for 1-2 weeks at a time. It is strongly recommended that aligners be removed when eating, drinking, or preparing to clean them. Because you understand the financial investment that comes with this type of orthodontic solution, there’s a good chance you’ll be more committed to the process. What many younger individuals do not realize is that although Invisalign is a more flexible option, it comes with added responsibility. If remembering to take trays out before eating is a problem, it will only delay treatment because of the damage caused to the aligner. However, older adults tend to follow instructions and be more apt to stick with the process to see quicker results.
Don’t be fooled into thinking you’re too old for Invisalign. Meeting with your dentist to discuss your preferences and goals for straighter teeth will have you seeing a new and improved smile in no time at all.
About the Practice
At Long Family Dental, our team of dental experts has been caring for the residents of Midlothian for more than 40 years. A family-owned business, Dr. Robert Long and Dr. Chris Long are carrying on the work of their father, Dr. Henry Long, who originally established the practice. Joined by Dr. Wes Fichera, the three work closely together to help straighten and improve smiles of all ages. If Invisalign is the desired orthodontic treatment, visit our website or call us to find out if you are eligible to start treatment.