What age do you have to be to get Invisalign?
How old is too old for Invisalign?
Can kids get Invisalign?
These are some of the many questions surrounding Invisalign. It can be unclear who can get Invisalign and if there’s an age limit for Invisalign.
If you’re asking questions about the minimum age for Invisalign, we’re glad you’re here. We’ll be shedding light on Invisalign for kids and answering questions like “How old do you have to be to get Invisalign?”
Join us as we talk about teeth straightening for kids and the Invisalign age range.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a tooth straightening alternative to traditional metal braces. It’s a popular straightening option because it’s invisible and removable.
Invisalign works by slowly moving your teeth into alignment through the use of plastic mouthpieces you place over your teeth called “trays.”
Your orthodontist will take a 3-D scan of your mouth, create an Invisalign plan, and begin giving you trays. Every two weeks, you’ll return to your orthodontist to get new trays. Your treatment length can last from a few months to a few years, depending on your situation.
It’s advised that you wear your trays for 20-22 hours each day for the best results. However, you can remove them when eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth.
Many adults in their 20s, 30s, and even 40+ are known to receive Invisalign as a treatment. But what about younger kids and teens?
When Should Kids See an Orthodontist?
Even though most people think only pre-teens and teens should see an orthodontist, the American Association of Orthodontics recommends kids see an orthodontist as early as age seven.
At age seven, many adult teeth have begun to erupt (come in), and an orthodontist can see all the permanent teeth that have yet to come in. If everything looks good, then the orthodontist won’t need to do anything. However, if there are any issues in the mouth, the orthodontist can begin phase 1 orthodontics.
Phase 1 Orthodontics
Phase 1 orthodontics, or interceptive orthodontics, is an early form of orthodontic treatment. It allows the orthodontist to make changes or prepare the mouth for later growth stages. This initial phase usually lasts 9-12 months, and treatment is patient-specific.
Orthodontists often use phase 1 treatment to address issues that are time-sensitive such as controlling jaw growth and preventing premature wear on the teeth.
Phase 1 seeks to create better mouth conditions for future adult teeth coming in and is a way to prepare for phase 2 orthodontics.
Phase 2 Orthodontics
Phase 2 orthodontics begins in early adolescent or adolescent years. This is the phase that usually comes to mind when people think about braces or Invisalign.
During phase 2, teeth are aligned for aesthetics, function, and stability. Like phase 1, phase 2 is customized for each patient and will vary in treatment length. However, the average length of this phase is 18-24 months.
Now that you better understand Invisalign and the phases of orthodontics treatment for kids, let’s answer some specific questions about Invisalign.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get Invisalign?
People commonly want to know, “At what age can you get Invisalign?”
The Invisalign age range is vast. The lower age limit for Invisalign is usually seven years old, but the upper limit is very flexible. Invisalign is usually more restricted by tooth health and mouth conditions than age.
Regardless of your age, it’s best to talk with your orthodontist about Invisalign. They can give you a professional opinion about what’s right for you.
Can Kids Get Invisalign?
Another frequent question is whether or not kids can get Invisalign. The short answer is yes.
Orthodontists can use Invisalign in phase 1 for kids age seven and older to fix preliminary issues before adult teeth fully erupt. Then, they may choose to use it again in phase 2.
However, Invisalign isn’t the only tool available for phase 1 treatment. You should first talk to your orthodontist about your child’s teeth. Your child’s orthodontist may think that a different phase 1 tool is better for your child’s situation.
How Old is Too Old for Invisalign?
You’re never too old for Invisalign. Invisalign is an excellent option for older adults in their 20s, 30s, or later.
Your overall oral health will play a role, though. The older you are, the more likely you are to have tooth decay or other potential tooth issues. These may hinder your ability to receive Invisalign as a treatment option.
Your dentist and orthodontist can help you understand your oral condition and if Invisalign is a viable straightening option for you.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost for Kids?
The price of Invisalign for kids and adults is the same. A complete Invisalign treatment can range from $3,000-$6,500, depending on the process’s length.
Your overall Invisalign price will be more expensive if you receive Invisalign phase 1 treatment as a kid and then again in phase 2 as an adolescent. However, the price for a single Invisalign treatment is similar for kids and adults.
The Best Teeth Straightening for Kids in Richmond, VA
Orthodontic care isn’t something that needs to wait until your children are pre-teens or teens. It’s best to get your kids in to see an orthodontist around the age of seven. By this time, an orthodontist can do an initial evaluation of your child’s teeth and begin phase 1 orthodontic treatment if necessary.
During phase 1 or phase 2 treatment, an orthodontist may choose to use Invisalign. However, age is rarely a factor in determining when Invisalign is an appropriate method. Rather, each person is different, and alignment procedures are personalized.
“How old do you have to be to get Invisalign?” may be a common question, but it’s an easy question for a professional to answer.
At Bates Orthodontics, we’re ready to give expert advice to you and your children regarding orthodontic treatment. We like to take a more conservative approach to orthodontics because we value doing what’s right over what’s profitable. Our orthodontist will take time to talk with you, understand what’s going on, and provide a professional opinion with no strings attached.
Book your free consultation today to talk with us about any of your orthodontic questions or concerns. Our staff is available and ready to help you better understand the early childhood orthodontic treatment that’s right for your child.