Thinking about straightening your teeth but worried you might be too old for orthodontic treatment? Think again! Today, more teens and adults are choosing to correct misalignment issues. And the good news is that orthodontic treatment is just as effective for adults as it is for younger patients. As long as your teeth are healthy, they can be moved. At Bent Tree Dental, Dr. Rick Miller has helped many adults take the driver’s seat in their smile transformation journey. He offers advanced options like Invisalign® clear aligners, which are an excellent choice for patients of all ages. In fact, one of our patients was 90 years old when she chose Invisalign—and the results were beautiful! Even Dr. Miller used Invisalign as an adult, so he truly understands the benefits from both a dentist’s and a patient’s perspective.
Curious how Invisalign stacks up against traditional braces? Understanding the pros and cons of braces can help you see how the two options differ.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Braces
Many patients choose traditional metal braces because they’re a reliable and effective way to correct misalignment, overcrowding, and malocclusion. However, they do come with drawbacks. One of the biggest concerns is appearance—metal braces are highly visible and can make patients feel self-conscious. Beyond aesthetics, the feel of braces can be uncomfortable. The brackets and wires are bulky and can irritate the inside of the mouth, causing soreness or even small cuts on the lips, cheeks, and tongue.
Metal braces also come with dietary restrictions. Patients need to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage the braces or get stuck in them. And because food particles can easily become trapped around the brackets and wires, thorough cleaning after eating is essential. This can make daily brushing and flossing more challenging and time-consuming.
In addition to these challenges, metal braces require frequent orthodontic visits for tightening and adjustments. For patients with busy schedules, these regular appointments can be inconvenient. Luckily, Dr. Miller offers excellent alternatives to braces.
The Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment: A Guide to Invisalign
Many patients visit us with orthodontic needs but don’t want to commit to traditional metal braces. The bulky feel and noticeable appearance often make braces an unappealing option. That’s where Invisalign® comes in. This modern alternative uses smooth, high-quality plastic aligners that are nearly invisible, making it ideal for patients who want a discreet way to straighten their teeth.
But Invisalign isn’t just subtle—it’s highly effective. Each set of aligners is custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth and apply gentle, consistent pressure to guide them into better alignment. You’ll switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks. Each set is designed to move your teeth a little closer to their ideal position.
That precision starts from day one. Dr. Rick Miller begins every Invisalign treatment with precise planning. He uses a special 3D scanner to capture detailed images of your teeth and jaw. These scans allow him to map out the exact movements of each tooth, ensuring a treatment plan that’s as accurate as it is effective. While treatment time varies, many patients complete their Invisalign journey in 12 to 18 months.
One of Invisalign’s biggest advantages? No metal, no wires, and fewer office visits. Since there’s nothing to tighten or adjust, your appointments are quick and infrequent. Plus, the aligners are removable, which makes eating and oral hygiene much easier. You don’t have to worry about a restrictive diet or avoiding certain foods. Just remember: for the best results, wear your aligners for 22.5 hours per day. Skipping time can delay your progress.
If you’re unsure if Invisalign is right for you, we encourage you to visit our office for a thorough assessment!
Begin Your Treatment With Dr. Rick Miller Today!
Age doesn’t have to be a barrier to accessing high-quality orthodontic treatment like Invisalign. You can reap the advantages of these clear aligners, regardless of age!
Invisalign offers a range of benefits that make it an appealing alternative to traditional metal braces, especially for adults. The clear aligners are subtle, comfortable, and easy to remove, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions. Cleaning your teeth is simpler, too, with no brackets or wires to work around. With Invisalign, you’ll follow a clear, customized treatment plan made to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. If you’re ready to align your smile, schedule a free consultation today.
