What Are the Differences Between Traditional Braces and Aligners?

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What’s the Best Age to Start Clear Aligners? The Truth Might Surprise You

If you’re wondering whether you—or your child—are the right age to begin clear aligner treatment, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions we get is: “How old do I have to be to start clear aligners?” The short answer: There’s no age limit. Whether you’re 12 or 82, clear aligners can be a highly effective solution for straightening teeth—as long as certain conditions are met.

The Ideal Age to Start Aligners

Clear aligners like Invisalign become a viable option once a patient has all of their adult teeth, which typically occurs between ages 11 and 13. At this stage, digital orthodontic treatment can begin with precision and predictability. Many teens and pre-teens benefit from aligners because they offer:

• A discreet look

• Fewer food restrictions

• Easier hygiene compared to metal braces

• Shorter and more comfortable follow-up visits

Parents often appreciate how aligners integrate smoothly into school, sports, and social life.

But Here’s the Game-Changer:  There’s No Upper Age Limit

Clear aligners aren’t just for kids or teenagers. In fact, patients well into their 70s and 80s have successfully used aligners to correct:

• Crowded or shifting teeth

• Gaps between teeth

• Relapsed orthodontic issues

• Bite alignment (when related to tooth positioning)

As long as your teeth, gums, and bone structure are healthy, you’re likely a candidate for digital orthodontic treatment.

Teeth vs. Bones: What Aligners Can—and Can’t—Fix

Clear aligners are designed to move teeth, not jawbones. That’s an important distinction.

🦷 Aligners Can Treat:

• Tooth crowding or spacing

• Mild to moderate bite issues caused by tooth misalignment

• Cosmetic straightening for adults and teens

🦴 Aligners Cannot Correct:

• Skeletal jaw discrepancies

• Underdeveloped jaws

• Facial bone alignment problems

Jaw alignment issues are typically addressed with orthopedic appliances in early childhood, often starting around age 6. These devices guide facial growth and must be used while bones are still developing. Once you’ve reached adulthood, treatment focuses on the teeth, not the skeletal structure—making aligners an ideal solution if the bones are already set and you simply want straighter teeth.

Why Adults and Seniors Are Choosing Aligners

In the past, many adults avoided orthodontic treatment due to the stigma of wearing braces later in life. But now, with clear aligners offering:

• Nearly invisible trays

• Removable convenience

• Custom-fit comfort

• Digital treatment planning

…more adults than ever are investing in their smile at any age. It’s never too late to feel confident.

The Bottom Line: Aligners Work at Any Age—If You’re a Good Fit

As long as:

• Your adult teeth are fully erupted

• Your oral health is stable (no untreated gum disease or bone loss)

• You’re committed to wearing the aligners 20–22 hours a day

…then clear aligners can give you the beautiful, straight smile you’ve always wanted—whether you’re 13 or 83.

🦷 Ready to See What Aligners Can Do for You?

Dr. Bak Nguyen has over 25 years of experience in orthodontics and smile design, helping thousands of patients achieve their goals using the latest clear aligner technology.

Book a free virtual consultation to learn more about your case, its treatment time and cost with Dr Bak Nguyen (the real one).

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