Knowing exactly who is a good candidate for Invisalign – the “invisible braces” – will give you a better sense of whether this popular treatment is right for you.
As a wire-free, nearly invisible alternative to braces, many orthodontics patients want to know how to be a candidate for Invisalign.
So, let’s take a closer look at Invisalign suitability and answer some of the most common questions orthodontists get, like:
- Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?
- How do I know if Invisalign is right for me?
- How do you qualify for Invisalign?
- Does Invisalign work for everyone?
With the right knowledge and help from your orthodontist, you’ll be on your way to that straight smile you’ve always dreamed of!
What Is Invisalign?
Before we answer the question “Does Invisalign work for everyone?”, let’s give you a basic understanding of the process.
Invisalign is a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that fit over your teeth to gradually move them in the right direction. These plastic trays should be worn every day and only removed when you’re eating or brushing your teeth.
Invisalign treatment often lasts about one year, but the timeframe can vary from six to 18 months or longer, depending on how fast your teeth move and the corrections your orthodontist is making.
Issues Invisalign Can Help Correct
Invisalign is a powerful alignment tool that can treat several orthodontic issues.
Here are some of the most common issues that Invisalign can help correct.
Gaps Or Spaces In Between Teeth
When teeth shift or move in general, gaps can form between them. Invisalign is a great option for closing these gaps to create a more even smile.
Overbites (Overjets) And Underbites
An overbite (or what dentists call an overjet) is when your upper teeth are too far forward over your lower ones. Underbites, on the other hand, occur when the lower teeth are more prominent than the upper ones. For both issues, Invisalign can be a great solution.
Crooked or Rotated Teeth
Your teeth can sometimes look off-center or crooked. If you’d like to shift your teeth back into place and straighten them, Invisalign offers a fast and effective method – without relying on traditional metal braces.
Teeth That Appear Too Crowded
Crowding occurs when teeth are too close together. If you’re unhappy about how crowded your teeth look, Invisalign can help line them up.
Now that you know more about what issues Invisalign can fix, let’s look at some of the most common questions people have, like “How do you qualify for Invisalign?”
Who Is A Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Like traditional metal braces, Invisalign trays work by putting pressure on your teeth so they move into the right position. One of the main differences is that Invisalign aligners consist of smooth, comfortable plastic rather than metal.
People who don’t love their smile often wonder how to be a candidate for Invisalign, and how an orthodontist determines Invisalign’s suitability for treatment.
So, how do I know if Invisalign is right for me?
The following criteria will help you decide if Invisalign is right for you:
- Healthy gums and teeth: Ideally, you don’t have any existing health issues, such as oral cancer or severe periodontal disease. If you have problems with gum disease or even mild gingivitis, this can complicate your treatment or make it less effective.
- Your motivation: If you’re not highly motivated or interested in following your orthodontist’s recommendations, Invisalign might not be best for you because it requires virtually 24-hour wear, meticulous brushing, and strong oral hygiene.
- No serious structural issues: Large gaps between teeth or severely rotated teeth can be challenging to move with Invisalign. Your orthodontist may choose to first fix these issues with traditional braces and then switch you over to Invisalign to finish treatment.
If you’re still unsure if you can get Invisalign or not, you can always consult with an orthodontist.
Does Invisalign Work for Everyone?
Invisalign has risen in popularity over the years, leaving many people wondering, am I a good candidate for Invisalign?
Ultimately, most teens and adults will be good candidates for Invisalign. Orthodontists may even use Invisalign in children around the age of 7 or 8 if they need early orthodontic treatment.
However, the older you get, the more your tooth, gum, and bone health will play a role in whether you can get Invisalign (or another alignment method). Anyone with severe dental issues or underlying medical conditions that impact jaw growth may not be the best candidate.
But overall, anyone ages 8-88 (or older) could qualify for Invisalign treatment.
How Do I Know If Invisalign Is Right for Me?
The best way to learn who is a good candidate for Invisalign is to speak with an orthodontist.
A trained professional can offer a clear diagnosis and determine if Invisalign can move your teeth into an ideal position, leaving you with a more beautiful smile you’re excited to show off.
You should also consider talking to a dentist before undergoing treatment. They can offer suggestions for improving your oral hygiene so your teeth can be healthy, no matter what treatment you choose!
Now that you know who is a good candidate for Invisalign, it’s time to speak with an orthodontist and see how this treatment can change your smile!
Learn How to Be a Candidate for Invisalign with Bates Orthodontics
Invisalign offers a variety of benefits for anyone looking for an alternative to metal braces.
So, how do you know who is a good candidate for Invisalign?
While most people will see great results, learning how to be a candidate for Invisalign will ensure your orthodontic treatment goes as smoothly as possible.
Some factors that will affect Invisalign suitability include your:
- Oral health
- Age
- Expected duration of treatment
- Severity of dental issues
- Motivation and personal lifestyle
And if you don’t know if Invisalign is right for you, contact a trained orthodontist today?
At Bates Orthodontics, we believe everyone deserves a smile they can be proud of! That’s why our team is committed to patients of all ages achieving the smile they’ve always wanted. Whether you’re a parent looking for orthodontic solutions for a child or you’re an adult who wants a straighter smile for yourself, we’d love to meet with you and provide you with the perfect smile.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation so you can stop wondering “Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?” We’ll discuss your alignment options and work with you to help you create a smile you love!
