Why adults choose aligners, and how adult aligner treatment differs in general, is covered in the Invisalign for adults guide at MapleRidgeClearAligners.com. This page is about what happens when an adult sits down for an evaluation at myORTHODONTIST Maple Ridge, and the checks we run before recommending anything.
The short answer
Teeth move through bone remodelling, which continues throughout life, and adults in their 60s and 70s are treated routinely. Movement is somewhat slower than in a teenager and the plan is more conservative, but the biology works at any age. The most common thing adults tell us at an evaluation is that they wish they had come sooner.
What we check first
- Gum and bone health. Active gum disease has to be treated and stable before teeth move. If you have a history of gum problems, we coordinate with your dentist or periodontist first.
- Existing dental work. Crowns, bridges and veneers are planned around, and implants do not move, so the plan works with them.
- Your bite and tooth wear. Chipping, flattened teeth or difficulty chewing often point to a bite problem worth correcting, not only crowding.
- Jaw joints. Clicking, pain or morning headaches are assessed before treatment begins. See TMJ and jaw pain.
- Sleep and breathing. Snoring or daytime tiredness can matter to the plan, so we ask about them.
Working with your dentist
Many adults come to us because their dentist wants teeth moved before crowns, implants or veneers. You do not need a referral, but when restorative work lies ahead we plan with your dentist so the teeth end up where that work needs them, and we keep your dentist informed throughout.
The options we may recommend
Limited treatment of the front teeth when the bite is stable, which is shorter and costs less; comprehensive aligner treatment when the bite needs correcting; braces or a combination for movements aligners do less predictably; and, for a significant jaw discrepancy, orthodontics combined with jaw surgery. The full range is on the adult orthodontics page.
Fitting treatment around work
Check-ins are spaced several weeks apart and most are short, with remote monitoring in between and early and late appointment slots available. Aligners come out for meals, including business lunches, as long as the daily total stays above 20 hours.
Cost and retention
The fee depends on the diagnosis and scope, and limited cases cost less than comprehensive ones. It is quoted in writing, insurance is billed directly, and interest-free monthly plans are available. Some employer plans cover adults, and health spending accounts and the medical expense tax credit may apply; see cost and insurance. Retention is lifelong: nightly retainers, often with a fixed wire behind the lower front teeth.
It is not too late to ask
A complimentary adult evaluation at myORTHODONTIST Maple Ridge: gums, bite and dental work assessed, with the full fee in writing. No referral needed.