Invisalign is a great alternative to braces for people with mild to moderate misalignment, like overcrowding, gaps, and bite issues. Many teens and adults choose Invisalign over braces because they’re easier to clean and eat with, and are practically invisible. But they’re not right for everyone, and getting an orthodontic evaluation can help you find out if they’d fit your lifestyle.
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Checklist: Do I qualify for Invisalign?
Only an orthodontist can tell you for sure, but you may be a good candidate for Invisalign if:
- You have mild to moderate crowding
- You have mild spacing or gaps between teeth
- You have minor bite concerns (such as a mild overbite or crossbite)
- You previously had braces, and your teeth have shifted
- You have healthy gums and no untreated cavities
- You have all (or nearly all) permanent teeth erupted (for teen/adult treatment)
- You are willing to wear aligners 20–22 hours per day
- You are comfortable using attachments or elastics if prescribed
- You can attend regular orthodontic follow-up appointments
Ready to find out if you qualify? Schedule your consultation for Invisalign in Chapel Hill with Dr. Clifton.
Who needs Invisalign? The most common problems it can fix
Clear aligners like Invisalign can fix crowded teeth, but can also help correct other issues.
1. Crowded teeth
Mild to moderate crowding is one of the most common reasons patients choose Invisalign. When teeth overlap, cleaning becomes more difficult and increases the risk of cavities and gum issues.
2. Spacing and gaps
Small to moderate gaps between teeth can be corrected with Invisalign. Spacing issues are more than just cosmetic, too, since they can affect bite stability.
3. Relapse after braces
If your teeth shifted because you stopped wearing your retainer, your orthodontist may recommend Invisalign as a retreatment option.
4. Cosmetic alignment improvements
Some patients just want straighter front teeth. Invisalign is a great cosmetic choice for mild tooth straightening because the aligners are nearly invisible.
5. Mild bite corrections
Invisalign can correct some bite issues, like mild to moderate overbites, underbites, and crossbites. However, complex issues may require a more intensive treatment.
Our guide on when to see an orthodontist can help you recognize if it’s time to get a clear aligner consultation.
Invisalign limitations: When Invisalign may not work well
Some people may benefit from more traditional braces or another treatment. Invisalign is best for mild corrections and may not be ideal for people with:
- Severe jaw discrepancies
- Significant skeletal bite problems
- Teeth requiring large vertical movements
- Severely rotated teeth
- Impacted teeth
- Cases requiring surgical orthodontics
- Active periodontal (gum) disease
During your consultation, we’ll determine which option offers the most predictable and healthy long-term result.
Who isn’t eligible for Invisalign?
Invisalign is widely used among adults and teens, and can even be used for kids as young as 6. However, Invisalign might not be the right option for you if:
- You cannot commit to wearing aligners 20–22 hours per day
- You frequently forget removable appliances
- You have untreated cavities or active gum disease
- You struggle with consistent oral hygiene
- You require major bite correction
- You are unable to attend follow-up visits
Even if your orthodontic corrections are eligible for Invisalign, if you don’t think you’d consistently wear your aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day, braces may be the better option for your treatment. Invisalign isn’t the only option to traditional braces, though. Talk to us about braces alternatives for kids, teens, and adults at your next visit to Clifton & Mauney.
Invisalign requirements
Unlike braces, Invisalign is completely removable, which means the maintenance for them is completely different. Patients using Invisalign must keep their maintenance in mind:
Wear aligners 20–22 hours per day
Aligners should only be removed for:
- Eating
- Drinking anything besides water
- Brushing and flossing
Inconsistent wear can delay progress and can even reverse tooth movement.
Aligner hygiene
Patients must clean their aligners daily. Poor cleaning habits can lead to:
- Staining
- Plaque buildup
- Gum inflammation
- Odor
Switching aligners on schedule
Most patients change to a new set of aligners every week or every other week, depending on their treatment plan. Delaying new aligner sets can delay progress.
Follow-up visits
Routine visits let your orthodontist monitor tooth tracking, bite development, attachment effectiveness, and overall progress.
What makes Invisalign fail?
Invisalign treatment fails, most commonly, when patients don’t wear their aligners consistently or for the right amount of time every day. Patients who don’t keep their aligners and teeth clean can also experience Invisalign failure. Treatment can also fail when patients lose their aligners, don’t replace them, or skip their appointments.
Can you get Invisalign at any age? Kids, teens, adults
Kids
Invisalign First is a Phase 1 orthodontic treatment that can be used for children 6–10. Phase 1—or interceptive—treatment helps correct issues before they get worse, potentially saving money and time. Invisalign First can be a good option for kids who can practice good dental hygiene and have sensory issues with brackets or wires.
Teens
Invisalign is a great option for adolescents and teens who are able to practice good dental hygiene, keep track of their aligners, and stay on track with their orthodontic appointments. Many student athletes and band members also love Invisalign because they can take them out for practice or games and not worry about them getting in the way or breaking.
Adults
Even adults over 50 can find success with Invisalign. You can straighten your teeth well into adulthood, even if you have long-standing dental issues or stopped wearing your retainer. The best part for many adult patients is that Invisalign is discreet enough to pair with any outfit—and straighter teeth can boost your self-esteem.
Schedule an orthodontic consultation with Clifton & Mauney
Find out if Invisalign could be right for you or your child’s smile. Dr. Clifton is Chapel Hill’s trusted board-certified orthodontist who can customize your treatment for your specific needs. Come visit us at our office off of Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Vilcom Center near Duke Primary Timberlyne.
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