As appealing as Invisalign sounds, you may think you’re too late to enjoy it. The treatment often comes across as something only teens and young adults can get for their smiles. It surely wouldn’t work for folks in their middle and senior years, right? That said, a patient can never be too old for Invisalign and its patented aligners. If you’d like to learn why that’s the case, just review this summary from your local Temple dentist.
It’s Never Too Late for Invisalign
To be fair, many young adults do get Invisalign; they’re a big demographic for the procedure. Still, seniors and older folks are just as eligible for clear aligner work.
The truth is that teeth can always “straighten out” with enough pressure. Whether you’re young, old, or somewhere in between, this fact about your body doesn’t change. That means Invisalign trays could shift your pearly whites with their micro-movements! Really, all you’d need to do is wear them long enough each day.
How Invisalign Can Benefit Seniors
Of course, Invisalign isn’t just effective for seniors; it actively benefits this age group. Older patients who get the treatment would enjoy perks like:
Improved Oral Health
Crooked teeth tend to wear down easily, trigger jaw and facial pain, and prompt challenges with chewing. A misaligned grin is also at high risk of cavities, as it’ll gather more bacteria that cause tooth decay. The good news is that Invisalign prevents (and treats) these issues by aligning your teeth. From there, you’re bound to have a cleaner and stronger smile!
Better Quality of Life
Crooked teeth can make you feel awkward as you mingle with friends, family, and peers. Luckily, Invisalign straightens your grin and lets you avoid a sour mood. Knowing it’s aligned your smile should boost your confidence, leading to a higher quality of life. That elevated attitude could even lead to better outcomes in your career, home life, and so on.
Remember to Weigh Your Options
Despite the above, please carefully assess if Invisalign is right for you. The treatment works regardless of age but comes with conditions for older folks.
Firstly, the Invisalign process is rougher for seniors than adolescents. Older teeth aren’t as malleable as younger ones, so moving them takes longer and can cause more aches. Sticking to a steady aligner wear time would be even more essential.
Next, Invisalign for older adults can be more costly. The treatment is less common for seniors than kids, so your insurance plan may not cover it. That could cause you to pay an out-of-pocket cost ranging from $4000 to $8000.
There’s no such thing as “too old for Invisalign,” so don’t let age hold you back. Talk to your local dentist about your treatment options soon!
About the Author
Dr. Richard Fossum is a dedicated dentist based in Temple, TX. Since earning his DDS from the UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry, he’s spent decades in the field honing his skills in dental work. That experience has made him an expert in preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, as well as emergency oral care. Dr. Fossum also takes pride in being a certified Invisalign provider! Today, he practices at his self-titled clinic and is reachable on his website and by phone at (254)-778-3900.