Invisalign®: Better for Adults or Teens?

Invisalign® has been a game-changer in orthodontic treatments, offering a more discreet and comfortable solution for teeth alignment. While people may wonder if Invisalign is a more effective treatment for teens or adults, there are multiple factors to determine whether a patient is a candidate for Invisalign.

Invisalign for adults

One of the significant benefits of Invisalign is its discreet nature that results from the aligner or trays not needing brackets or wires. Adults can undergo orthodontic treatment without worrying about the visible metal braces, which can affect their confidence in the workplace.

Convenience is another applicable factor that makes Invisalign suitable for adults. Patients can easily remove the aligners, allowing their teeth to be gradually straightened without compromising everyday activities, such as eating, speaking, attending meetings, or participating in sports. However, it is worth noting that orthodontists recommend wearing the aligners for at least 20 hours a day, only removing them to eat or complete one's oral hygiene routine. While patients' oral hygiene will not need to change, they must clean their aligners daily, preferably every time they remove them, to prevent bacteria build-up.

However, adults can expect some drawbacks when using Invisalign. One complicated aspect of Invisalign is compliance with the rules of the treatment plan. Patients must wear the Invisalign aligners for around 20 to 22 hours per day to ensure the treatment finishes on schedule. Some may experience discomfort in the gums and teeth due to the tighter fit of the next set of aligners in the series.

Invisalign for teens

Most do not get out of their teen years without wanting or needing some teeth straightening treatment. This is why the Invisalign company developed a system solely for them called Invisalign Teen. It is possible to customize this system to the patient's smile, which is especially ideal for those with lingering baby (primary) teeth.

Additionally, while the system does not have brackets or wires, it will have a blue dot on the back of the aligners, designed to dissolve over time. The purpose of the dots is to ensure teens wear the aligners for the right amount of time. Suppose the blue dot lasts past a week of first receiving the aligners. This is a sign the teen is not wearing the aligners as directed, which can make treatment take longer and be less effective. In this case, the teen may need to revisit other orthodontic appliances.

Other than needing to receive a new set of aligners every two weeks, Invisalign Teen is just as convenient as the system for adults. Patients can remove the aligners when eating, drinking, and cleaning their teeth. For active teens who play high-contact sports requiring a mouthguard, the aligners provide a snug fit so that teens can choose to place the appliance over the aligners (preferable) or remove the Invisalign system altogether. Following extra tips such as these will ensure the patient continues progressing appropriately through their plan.