Have you dreamed of straighter teeth for decades? Was orthodontic care something your family couldn’t afford when you were young? Is the idea of old-school metal braces as an adult something you just can’t wrap your head around? Guess what–it’s never too late to get straighter teeth. Clear retainer systems like Invisalign have revolutionized orthodontic care for grown-ups–so much so that one-quarter of orthodontic patients are now adults. The best news is we can complete the entire Invisalign treatment right in your family dentist’s office–no orthodontist visits are required.
The development of transparent aligner systems like Invisalign is a major reason for the rise in popularity of orthodontic care among adults. With removable aligners, getting the smile of your dreams is easier than ever. However, in addition to new treatment methods, adults are taking the plunge for several other reasons. The AARP has studied motivations for adults and seniors choosing orthodontic care.
Disposable income: Let’s face it: orthodontic care can be expensive. When the kids are out of the nest, many adults find they have the time and disposable income to take care of themselves. Your dental insurance may not fully cover aligners. However, it’s a cosmetic improvement that’s well worth the cost for many patients.
Selfie culture: With the advent of social media, our society has become even more focused on appearances. In the age of the selfie, everyone wants a gorgeous smile. From Invisalign to in-office whitening, your family dentist is an excellent resource for boosting your confidence and improving your smile.
Fixing lifelong problems: Many adults grew up in families who couldn’t afford to address orthodontic issues. We often see patients who have been uncomfortable with their smiles for decades and realize they can finally do something about it.
Adults may have oral health-related issues because of misaligned teeth. Straightening our teeth can relieve overcrowding or help with chewing or speech problems.
Today’s seniors are just saying no to dentures. Older adults want to preserve their natural teeth. Addressing alignment problems with Invisalign or adult braces can help us keep our teeth healthy.
Why Is Invisalign a Good Choice for Adults?“I’d love to finally get my teeth straightened, but I’m not sure I could handle braces.”
After years of hearing comments like this from adult patients, Invisalign is the solution. Another reason for the rise in orthodontic care among adults is the convenience of clear aligners like Invisalign. Invisalign lets you achieve straighter teeth without the inconvenience of traditional braces. The aligners are clear and discreet, and you can take them out while you eat.
Another advantage is that adult patients don’t have to sit in an orthodontist’s office with preteens, deal with scheduling orthodontist visits or the headache of finding a provider. Your trusted family dentist can take care of everything right in her office.
You don’t need an orthodontist to get straighter teeth with Invisalign. Your family dentist covers the entire treatment, from developing a plan to supplying new aligners (made directly by Invisalign) every two weeks.
Your family dentist is an excellent first resource if you’re considering orthodontic care, even if you don’t choose Invisalign. The first step is an X-ray of your bite. Then, you and your dentist develop a plan for correcting your bite using Invisalign’s unique software program. Your dentist uses that design to create a series of clear aligners that gently and gradually move your teeth into place. Invisalign trays are made of comfortable clear plastic with no metal brackets or wires. Another significant advantage is removing your aligners to eat, drink, brush and floss. Most patients wear Invisalign for 22 hours a day for best results. You change aligners every two weeks as your teeth gradually shift into place. You’ll see your dentist every six weeks to check your progress. Most patients take around a year to achieve the desired results. Studies show Invisalign doesn’t take longer than traditional braces and may sometimes work faster.
Invisalign costs around the same amount as traditional braces, usually $3000 to $5000 for the complete treatment. Some insurance plans may cover part of the costs, so it always pays to check your policy. Patients can use pre-tax funds from their Flexible Savings Account or Health Savings Account for Invisalign, or your dentist can create a payment plan.
Be warned: AARP and other organizations warn against cheaper DIY aligner systems advertised online. These products are not custom-designed for your mouth and can cause significant oral health problems, TMJ, gum infections or tooth loss.
Adult orthodontic care is more accessible, more convenient and more appealing than ever. That’s why grown-ups around the country are taking the leap. It’s time to take action to achieve the smile of your dreams. The dentists at Greenhill Family Dental Care are fully trained in Invisalign and love achieving gorgeous results for adult patients. What are you waiting for?
