smile blog

A small gap between your front teeth. An over-crowded smile. A minor cross-bite.These imperfections may be hurting your self-esteem and personal confidence. You’re ready to make a change and finally straighten your teeth. But if you’re over 40, it’s natural to wonder, “Is it too late for me to get Invisalign, and if it’s not, will Invisalign be worth the trouble and cost?”Read on for “straight talk” from our orthodontist and the truth about getting Invisalign after 40.

Age is just a number.

When it comes to getting Invisalign, age is truly just a number. There is no upper age limit for Invisalign. Our orthodontists frequently treat patients in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. Some of these patients had traditional metal braces when they were younger but their teeth have shifted over the years. Other patients did not have braces when they were younger and have always dreamt about straighter teeth.Whether or not you had braces in your youth, getting braces after 40 may be a non-starter. Metal braces can be uncomfortable, awkward and downright embarrassing. Invisalign is a discreet and effective alternative to braces that can help you achieve your dream smile at any age.

Straighter teeth boost personal and professional confidence.

Imagine your life with straight teeth. Would you smile freely and laugh more often? Would you walk into the CEO’s office with confidence? You do not have to live your life with an embarrassing overbite or tooth gap. When you invest in Invisalign treatment, you are not just investing in a straighter smile. You’re investing in a new, more confident version of you.

Your oral health will benefit, too.

Crooked or uneven teeth can be more difficult to clean. Food is also more likely to become trapped in hard-to-reach nooks and crannies, increasing the risk for tartar build-up and gum disease. Straighter teeth are easier to floss and brush, reducing the risk for serious oral health problems that could lead to tooth loss as you age. In the long run, it may be better for your oral health to move your teeth into their proper position than to risk gum disease and tooth loss.

Invisalign is safe and effective for patients over 40.

Before getting Invisalign, it’s natural to worry about experiencing discomfort during the process. While some soreness is normal when you change out aligners, keep in mind that each aligner moves your teeth an extremely small and precise amount. These movements are carefully controlled each week in accordance with your treatment plan. In fact, some patients who previously had braces in their youth comment that Invisalign is a far more discreet and comfortable alternative.If you have already met with an orthodontist but still have concerns about whether Invisalign is safe for straightening your teeth, our orthodontist in can provide a second opinion at no cost. Since the bones of an adult have stopped growing, more complex structural changes to your jaw and bite may be beyond Invisalign’s scope. For mild to moderate straightening and alignment needs, Invisalign is generally an effective option. Every patient is different, however, so it is important you speak with your orthodontist about your concerns and specific needs.For more information about what to expect when getting Invisalign after 40, including whether you are a good candidate, contact Docbraces for a personal consultation. Remember, when it comes to straighter teeth, age is truly just a number.