Invisalign Dentist Answers: Who Is a Candidate for Clear Aligners? [Video Q&A]

Who is a candidate for clear aligners? This is one of the most common questions we hear from patients looking for an Invisalign dentist. We’re always excited to share that clear aligner systems can now address a wider range of orthodontic concerns. This includes many mild-to-moderate alignment and bite issues, such as crooked teeth, crowding, and overbites.

When one of our orthodontists sees you for a free consultation, they can assess the condition of your smile in order to determine if clear aligners will work for you.

Invisalign Dentist Shares the Benefits of Clear Aligners

We recommend Invisalign® for patients who are a little more self-conscious about their social life and want to make sure their orthodontic treatment isn’t as noticeable when they smile. With Invisalign, a patient wears a clear tray that fits over the teeth. You may have tooth-colored attachments on your teeth, but when you smile and talk at a social distance, the other person can rarely tell you have any orthodontic treatment.

Another benefit is the ability to remove the aligners to clean your teeth really well. You can also take them out for a short time if you’re going out to dinner or doing something similar, then put them back in when you’re done. That’s not something you can do with braces.

What we always have to keep in mind is that if something can be taken out, it can sometimes be left out longer than it should be. That is why patient commitment is so important. Invisalign works best when aligners are worn as directed, usually 20–22 hours per day.

Who Are Good Candidates for Clear Aligners?

Many patients want to know if they’re a candidate for Invisalign. Now more than ever, we can treat many cases with Invisalign.

Clear aligners are best for correcting mild to moderate orthodontic issues. For instance, they can help correct crowding or spacing between teeth. Patients with mild bite issues, like an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite, may be candidates for Invisalign. This treatment works best for patients who can follow instructions on proper wear. Older teens and adults who can reliably wear aligners 20–22 hours per day and keep them clean will see more predictable results, as outlined in their treatment plan.

Lastly, patients who want a discreet option may find that clear aligners suit them especially well. People who prefer nearly invisible treatment rather than metal braces, especially professionals and image‑conscious teens, should consider this option.

To know for certain if clear aligners are right for you, see an orthodontist for a personalized Invisalign evaluation. We can look at how the bite fits together and see whether anything may be going on that would require treatment before starting Invisalign.

When Invisalign® Isn’t the Best Option

While Invisalign continues to evolve to work for more complex cases, some patients are still not ideal candidates. Those with more advanced issues, such as very severe crowding or bite issues, may need metal braces for the best result.

Patients with untreated cavities, gum disease, or other oral health concerns may need dental care before starting Invisalign. Healthy teeth and gums help make orthodontic treatment safer and more predictable. Younger children who may struggle to wear aligners consistently are often better suited for braces or another orthodontic option. Because aligners are removable, many younger kids struggle to keep them in and care for them properly.

If Invisalign is right for you, or another option would work better, the next step is to speak with an Invisalign dentist at one of our seven locations across Western New York. We don’t charge for any visits until the start of treatment. So it costs nothing to learn whether clear aligners can work for your smile.

Book a Free Consultation With an Invisalign Dentist

Many patients are candidates for Invisalign orthodontic treatment, but the best option depends on your bite, alignment needs, and your ability to wear the aligners as directed. For the most severe cases, traditional braces might better fit your needs. If you have questions for an Invisalign dentist, our doctors at Orthodontists Associates of WNY are happy to provide clear answers.

We don’t charge for any visits until the start of treatment. This means you won’t need to commit to any upfront costs to learn whether clear aligners are right for you. Schedule your free consultation at a location near you.