Invisalign London aligners have become increasingly popular among adults seeking teeth straightening orthodontic treatment. Many adults may feel that they have missed the opportunity for orthodontic intervention during their younger years and now believe they can’t achieve the straighter smiles they desire. Some patients may have undergone teeth straightening treatment in their younger years, but as time passed, they may have found that their teeth have returned to being misaligned, and they now desire a discreet realignment solution. These aligners offer precisely that.
Adults can benefit from clear aligners in addressing various orthodontic concerns, including gaps between their teeth, overcrowding, mild to moderate misalignment, and certain bite issues. The aligners are tailor-made for the individual to fit comfortably and snugly over the teeth, utilising SmartTrack material to do so. They exert gentle pressure to move the patient’s teeth gradually towards the desired final positions. This discreet treatment option allows adults to maintain their professional appearance and can help them to feel more confident throughout the process.
It’s important to note that age should not be a limiting factor for undergoing this type of realigning treatment. As long as the patient has good oral health and their teeth and gums are in a stable condition, they can opt for clear aligners at any age. In fact, it may even be possible to undergo treatment with these transparent aligners having had veneers or crowns fitted previously. For patients in these circumstances, a discussion with their dentist is a must to find out whether they are a suitable candidate for aligners.
Are clear aligners only for adults?
One common misconception is that removable aligners are only suitable for adult patients. However, these clear aligners can be used for children and teenagers as well, provided they have all their permanent teeth. In general, it is recommended that patients considering treatment with transparent aligners should be at least 12 or 13 years old to begin their treatment. By this age, most of their adult teeth should have erupted, allowing for comprehensive orthodontic treatment to begin. Their dentist would be able to advise on whether this is not the case for them.
The advantage of starting this form of orthodontic treatment during adolescence is that the jaw is still growing and, therefore, still malleable; this can make it easier to correct various bite issues and overcrowding. Clear aligners can gently guide the patient’s teeth into the proper positions, ensuring better alignment and an improved bite; this can, in turn, improve oral health because as the teeth become straighter, it can become easier to keep them clean and healthy. Moreover, the clear and removable nature of these braces can boost confidence, especially during the sensitivity of the formative adolescent years, giving teens something to smile about.
For parents seeking to help their teenagers find appropriate dental care for their orthodontic needs, it may be reassuring to know that there are multiple options for undergoing teeth straightening treatment. Some teens may require help to comply with the instructions for undergoing treatment with clear aligners. A level of discipline is required when it comes to ensuring the aligners are worn for the recommended time each day and cleaned and cared for correctly. For some teens with hobbies such as playing a musical instrument or engaging in a contact sport, removable aligners are an attractive prospect as this may offer them the versatility of removal during music or sporting practice (as long as they are still consistently worn for the 20-22 hour recommended daily timeframe).
What about complex orthodontic problems?
In recent years, Invisalign aligners have gained significant popularity as an effective and discreet alternative to traditional braces. While Invisalign aligners are suitable for a broad range of orthodontic cases, there are some instances in which more severe or complex issues may require alternative treatments. For example, individuals with significant jaw discrepancies, severe crowding, or skeletal malformations may require a different approach, such as traditional braces. However, for many common orthodontic concerns, clear aligners can provide effective results.
It’s essential to consult a qualified dental practitioner to determine whether these removable aligners are the right choice for a specific case. A comprehensive evaluation of the teeth and jaw structure is necessary to help the dentist assess the suitability of this type of treatment for the individual patient and discuss any alternatives if required.
