Can your teeth be straightened at any age?

Is there an age limit on straightening your teeth? Is there an age when you're just too old—or too young—to get a smile you love? Regarding both traditional and modern methods, you might have some questions about whether teeth straightening is an option at your or your child’s current age.

First things first, we’ve got some good news: There are teeth-straightening options that treat kids as young as 6 and adults age 50 and over,¹ and Invisalign^® treatment is one of the most modern and accessible ways to do it.

Can kids use Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign clear aligners are suitable for adults, teens, and yes, even kids! In fact, Invisalign offers a unique teeth-straightening system called Invisalign First™ treatment that’s designed specifically for children. Kids as young as 6 years old can use Invisalign First as a “phase one” of their teeth-straightening journey.

Invisalign clear aligners are different to the traditional metal braces. They are made of a flexible, comfortable SmartTrack™ material that is virtually invisible when worn. And because they are customized for each individual patient, they fit snugly and comfortably in any mouth—no matter how big or small.

Here's what makes Invisalign treatment unique: As a child's teeth grow, Invisalign clear aligners are also made to fit at every stage of growth. The journey can begin with a 3D scan of the teeth, where a simulated outcome is generated for both the dentist, orthodontist, or doctor and the patient in just a few minutes. Then, they’ll receive a series of customized clear aligners that are made to fit for that particular stage of treatment.

So why would kids even need Invisalign treatment? It’s a common question, but it gives kids a head start on getting straighter teeth for their formative years (hello, much-needed confidence!).

Can teenagers use Invisalign treatment?

Yes: Teens can certainly use Invisalign treatment to straighten their teeth. In fact, teens are awesome candidates for Invisalign treatment, as the aligners are almost invisible, so the treatment doesn’t interfere with their appearance or busy schedules. The aligners are also removable, so teens can easily take them out at home, at school, or at extracurricular activities or when they need a bite to eat.

Another big advantage of Invisalign treatment for teens: Invisalign aligners are more comfortable than traditional metal braces.² With Invisalign treatment, there are no brackets or wires to scrape against the inside of the mouth, which can cause cuts, sores, and a lot of discomfort.

Teen smiles come in many shapes and sizes—and they present a range of issues as their mouths and teeth are still developing. Good news: Invisalign clear aligners can treat a wide range of dental issues, including overbites, underbites, gaps in the teeth, crowded teeth, small fixes, and more.

What’s more, Invisalign treatment is perfect for teens who find themselves on the field or court several days a week: Because the aligners are removeable, there's no risk of them getting caught on clothing or sports equipment, and they are removable so much less likely to be damaged during contact sports than traditional metal braces. That means less time being worried about braces wires breaking, and more time focusing on the game in front of them.

Can adults use Invisalign treatment?

Contrary to what the braces stigma would have you believe, you can certainly straighten your teeth after high school. Even if you have long-standing dental issues like crowded teeth, underbites, overbites, or gaps, Invisalign treatment can give you the smile you deserve.

In fact, Invisalign treatment is a great orthodontic solution for adults, as the aligners are designed to be as discreet as possible. Invisalign aligners are practically invisible when worn, so nobody will even know that you are undergoing treatment unless you tell them. (And if you’re considering fixing your teeth, the last thing you need is a new reason to be insecure about your smile.)

The benefits to straightening your teeth as an adult run the gamut, from physical to emotional.

Physically, having straighter teeth can make it easier for you to brush and floss them properly. This is important as it helps to keep your teeth healthy and free from cavities and other dental problems as you get older. Also, having straighter teeth can also help to alleviate any pain or discomfort that you may be experiencing in your jaw or mouth, as misaligned teeth can often put pressure on certain areas.

Emotionally, having straighter teeth can do wonders for your self-confidence. If you have always been conscious of your crooked teeth but never made the move to do anything about it, Invisalign treatment can help you to finally achieve the smile that you have always wanted—in the most discreet way possible. This can lead to a life-changing boost in your self-esteem and a genuine improvement in your quality of life, every single day.

Invisalign aligners can treat kids and adults.

Whether you are a kid as young as 6 with developing teeth, a teenager who wants to avoid bulky metal braces, or an adult who has always wanted to achieve straighter teeth, Invisalign treatment can help you find your dream smile.

To find out more about Invisalign treatment and whether it is the right treatment for you, book a consultation with an Invisalign-trained doctor today. They will be able to assess your individual needs and give you more information about the treatment process. If you’d like to find an Invisalign doctor near you, check out Invisalign’s Find a Doctor tool.