What Adults Need to Know About Invisalign

Straightening your teeth can improve more than just your smile. It can also make daily care easier and support long-term oral health. If you’re considering clear aligners, such as Invisalign, you’ve likely come across plenty of opinions about how it works, how long it takes, and whether it’s the right choice. Some of that information is helpful, but plenty of myths can make the decision more complicated than it needs to be.

Dr. Dudley at Dudley Smiles has helped many adults achieve great results with Invisalign. Our team in Issaquah can’t wait to help you as well.

Invisalign Is Not Just for Teens

Many people assume Invisalign is mainly for younger patients, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, a significant portion of Invisalign patients are adults.

Invisalign offers the opportunity to improve your smile without the noticeable look of metal braces. Whether you’ve always wanted straighter teeth or you’re dealing with shifting that’s happened over time, it’s never too late to start treatment. Adults are often ideal candidates because they tend to be more disciplined about wearing aligners as directed, which helps keep treatment on track.

How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

You may have heard that Invisalign works faster than traditional braces, but is that always the case? The truth is, it depends.

Factors That Influence Treatment Time

• Complexity of Your Case – Minor adjustments may take as little as six months, while more severe misalignment could take 18-24 months.

• Consistency with Wear – Aligners should be worn 20-22 hours a day for the best results. The more diligent you are, the more efficiently treatment progresses.

• Aligner Changes – Dr. Dudley will provide a treatment plan with scheduled aligner changes, typically every 1-2 weeks.

For many adults, Invisalign treatment falls within the same general time frame as traditional braces. However, its removability and aesthetic benefits make it a preferred choice, even if the timeline is comparable.

Common Myths About Invisalign

There is a lot of misinformation about Invisalign. Let Dudley Smiles clear up a few of the most common myths so you can make an informed decision.

Myth #1: Invisalign Costs More Than Braces

Many people assume Invisalign is significantly more expensive than traditional braces, but the reality is that costs are often quite similar. The total price depends on factors like treatment length and complexity, but many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign the same way they would cover metal braces. Payment plans and financing options can also help make treatment more affordable.

Myth #2: You Have to Wear Invisalign Aligners 24/7

While aligners need to be worn most of the day, they’re designed to be removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing your teeth. The idea is wearing them for the recommended 20-22 hours daily, ensuring that your teeth continue shifting as planned.

Myth #3: Invisalign Only Works for Minor Cases

Invisalign has advanced significantly over the years and can now treat a wide range of cases, including overbites, underbites, crossbites, and gaps. If you have a more complex issue, attachments, elastics, and additional aligners may be used to enhance treatment effectiveness.

Adjusting to Invisalign as an Adult

Adapting to Invisalign is usually straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Mild Discomfort – As with any orthodontic treatment, expect slight pressure when switching to a new aligner. This means your teeth are moving!

• Oral Hygiene Routine – Because aligners are removable, maintaining good oral hygiene is easier than with braces. However, you’ll need to brush and floss after every meal to prevent food from getting trapped between your teeth and aligners.

• Speech Adjustments – Some people notice a slight lisp when they first start wearing aligners. However, this usually resolves within a few days as you get used to them.

Additional Benefits of Invisalign for Adults

Beyond aesthetics and convenience, Invisalign offers several other benefits:

• No Food Restrictions – Unlike braces, which require you to avoid sticky or hard foods, you can enjoy all your favorite meals without worry. Just remove your aligners before eating and clean your teeth before putting them back in.

• Easier Oral Care – Since no brackets or wires exist, brushing and flossing are much simpler.

• Fewer Office Visits – Invisalign requires fewer in-person adjustments than traditional braces and appointments are also shorter in duration. This combination makes it a great choice for busy schedules. 

Here’s Your Next Step If You’re Thinking About Invisalign

If you’re considering Invisalign, the best way to determine if it’s right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dudley. During your visit at our Issaquah office, you’ll get a customized treatment plan.

Straightening your teeth doesn’t have to be a hassle. Invisalign makes it possible to improve your smile while still living life on your terms. Contact Dudley Smiles to get started today!