Are you considering straightening your teeth but are hesitant about traditional metal braces? Many adults and teens feel self-conscious about wearing visible braces, especially in professional or social settings. If you’re looking for a discreet way to achieve a beautiful smile, Invisalign might be the solution you’ve been searching for. This innovative clear aligner system has transformed millions of smiles worldwide, offering a virtually invisible path to straighter teeth.
At David Eskow, DDS Family Practice, our experienced team helps patients throughout Olney and surrounding areas determine if Invisalign is right for them. We understand every smile is unique, and we take pride in providing personalized orthodontic solutions that fit your lifestyle and goals. Let’s explore the key indicators that make someone an ideal candidate for this revolutionary treatment.
You Have Mild to Moderate Orthodontic Issues
Invisalign effectively treats many dental alignment problems. The clear aligner system works exceptionally well for patients with mild to moderate concerns, including the following:
Crowded Teeth
When you don’t have enough space in your jaw for all your teeth to fit properly, it can make cleaning difficult and increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Invisalign slowly shifts teeth into alignment, creating the space needed for a healthy, attractive smile.
Gaps Between Teeth
Whether small spaces or larger diastemas, these issues react well to Invisalign treatment. The custom-made aligners apply gentle, consistent pressure to bring teeth together, closing unwanted spaces while maintaining proper bite alignment.
Common Bite Issues Invisalign Can Address
Overbites, underbites, and crossbites can often be corrected with Invisalign technology. While severe cases may require traditional orthodontics or surgical intervention, many bite irregularities fall within Invisalign’s treatment capabilities. Open bites, where the top and bottom teeth do not connect when the mouth is shut, are treated in many cases.
The key is having realistic expectations about what Invisalign can achieve. During your consultation at our practice, we’ll thoroughly evaluate your needs and decide if clear aligners can deliver the results you desire.
Your Commitment to Wearing Aligners 20-22 Hours Daily
Success with Invisalign depends heavily on patient compliance. Unlike traditional braces that work continuously, Invisalign aligners must be worn at all times to achieve optimal results. You’ll need to wear them for 20-22 hours each day, removing them only for eating, drinking anything besides water, and oral hygiene.
This requirement demands discipline and dedication. If you’re someone who follows routines well and can commit to wearing your aligners as prescribed, you’re likely an excellent Invisalign candidate. The treatment typically involves changing to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, slowly moving your teeth into their preferred positions.
Consider your lifestyle and daily habits honestly. Can you remember to put your aligners back in after meals? Will you resist the temptation to leave them out for extended periods of time? Your answers will help decide if Invisalign aligns with your lifestyle and personality.
You Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Excellent oral hygiene is crucial for successful Invisalign treatment. Because aligners fit snugly against your teeth, any bacteria or food particles trapped underneath can increase your risk of cavities and gum disease. Good candidates for Invisalign already have established oral care routines or are willing to improve their habits.
You’ll need to brush your teeth after every meal before reinserting your aligners. This keeps food particles from being trapped and reduces the risk of staining both your teeth and the clear aligners. Flossing daily remains essential, as clean teeth and healthy gums respond better to orthodontic movement.
The following are the daily care requirements:
- Brush teeth after all meals and snacks
- Clean with warm water and a soft toothbrush
- Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic aligners
- Store them in their case when not wearing them
- Maintain regular dental cleanings throughout treatment
Patients who already prioritize their oral health typically adapt quickly to these requirements. If you’re committed to maintaining pristine oral hygiene throughout your treatment, Invisalign can work beautifully for you.
Your Age and Jaw Development Status
While Invisalign works well for both teenagers and adults, certain age-related factors affect candidacy. For younger patients, jaw development plays a crucial role in determining the suitability of treatment. Most orthodontists recommend waiting until all permanent teeth have erupted, typically around age 12 to 13, before beginning Invisalign treatment.
Invisalign Teen features include compliance indicators and replacement aligners designed for growing patients. These blue dots fade with wear, helping parents and providers ensure teens wear their aligners as prescribed. The system also accommodates erupting teeth, making it suitable for adolescents whose smiles are still developing.
Adults of any age can be excellent Invisalign candidates, provided they have healthy teeth and gums. Many adults prefer Invisalign because it doesn’t interfere with their professional appearance or lifestyle. Whether you’re 25 or 65, if your teeth and supporting structures are healthy, age alone won’t disqualify you from treatment.
The practice serves patients across all age groups, tailoring treatment plans to meet the individual needs and circumstances of each patient. We’ll assess your specific situation to determine the most appropriate timing and approach for your Invisalign journey.
Choose David Eskow, DDS, Family Practice for Your Invisalign Journey
Determining your candidacy for Invisalign involves multiple factors, including the complexity of your orthodontic needs and your commitment to the treatment requirements. At David Eskow, DDS Family Practice, we combine advanced technology with personalized care to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Our team takes the time to understand your goals, your oral health, and create a treatment plan tailored to your lifestyle.
As a 2022, 2023, and 2025 Washingtonian Top Dentist, we bring expertise and compassion to every patient interaction. We’ll guide you through each step of your Invisalign journey, from initial consultation through your final reveal of your new smile. Ready to discover if Invisalign is right for you? Call us at (301) 774-2000 or contact us online to schedule your consultation today.