Is There an Ideal Age to Get Invisalign Treatment?

Invisalign® is a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign uses removable clear plastic aligners to provide subtle and consistent pressure that encourages the teeth and jaw to shift to their intended position. Invisalign corrects nearly all the same malocclusion problems as braces but without metal brackets or wires.

People considering Invisalign treatment at Fairfax Family Dental Care often ask our dentists if there is an ideal age to get Invisalign treatment. Here, we discuss how age may be a factor in Invisalign treatment and at what age our Fairfax, VA, patients may best benefit from this teeth straightening treatment.

Is There a Minimum Age for Invisalign Treatment?

There is no set minimum age for Invisalign treatment. However, most dentists do not recommend any type of orthodontic treatment in children under the age of seven. Ideally, permanent teeth should be in, and the jaw should be fully mature before starting braces treatment. Most orthodontic issues are apparent around the age of seven, although it can vary slightly for each person.

While children may start orthodontic treatment as young as seven, Invisalign may not be ideal for younger patients. Invisalign is usually recommended for teenagers and adults since they are responsible and mature enough to wear Invisalign aligners and care for them exactly as instructed.

Is There a Maximum Age for Invisalign Treatment?

Just as there is no minimum age for Invisalign treatment, there is no maximum age limit. Many of our Fairfax patients undergo Invisalign treatment in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. Invisalign is an effective treatment option for malocclusion problems, and many adults prefer Invisalign over traditional braces because the aligners are discreet. Because Invisalign aligners are removable, it makes caring for the teeth easy, which is another benefit over braces.

Although there is no age limit for Invisalign treatment, adults should understand that they may require a longer treatment timeline than younger patients. This is true of all orthodontic treatments. The jaws and teeth of adults are more rigid than those of children and teenagers, so they may not respond as quickly to Invisalign or other orthodontic techniques.

Is There an Ideal Age to Get Invisalign Treatment?

Many people ask our dentists about the ideal age to get Invisalign treatment. Invisalign can be effective for patients of any age, provided they are prepared to follow all treatment guidelines. So, rather than considering a patient’s age specifically, it is more important to consider the patient’s maturity and level of responsibility. 

Invisalign aligners are removable, which makes them convenient for oral care. However, patients must wear aligners at least 22 hours a day for Invisalign treatment to be effective. Ideal Invisalign patients are mature enough to wear aligners as directed and keep track of the aligners when they aren’t being worn so they don’t get lost or damaged.

Contact Fairfax Family Dental Care

Invisalign is a viable orthodontic technique for patients of all ages, provided they are committed to following treatment guidelines. If you want to learn more about Invisalign and if it can help you discreetly and conveniently straighten your smile, contact our dental practice and schedule an appointment.