Let’s face it,  when we look good we feel good (whatever that means to you). Some of us exercise, get Botox, or just wear our comfy jeans. However,  getting braces is a whole other can of worms!  Many women who are over 40,  are making the decision to start the journey! 

Would you get Invisalign aligners if you were over 20, 30, or 40? Or, is it too late?

Aren’t braces for kids? 

Will I be the only one in the orthodontist office who is my age?

Is it too complicated and time-consuming?

NO, IT’S NOT!!!  (Before and after photos below)

At the age of 42,  I decided to get braces (specifically, Invisalign aligners). Actually, I was 38 when I first looked into it but did not follow through until I was 42.

Initially,  I was going to get metal braces, but I chickened out at the thought of metal and endless pain.

My sister, who got traditional braces when she was 10, said it was excruciating, so I took her word for it.  

So, at 42 I started the process of getting my Invisalign clear aligners. 

I did not know what to expect,  or how much pain was involved,  but I knew I wanted to do this and it had to be easier than those metal torture devices!!!

Since having Invisalign for the past 10 months, I have learned a thing or two about this whole process.

Below,  I will be sharing 10 tips that will help make the process of getting Invisalign aligners a little smoother and less terrifying:

1. You will not be the only adult there

I was surprised to see how many adults were at the ortho’s office. I guess I was not the only person in the world who wanted to straighten their smile, Ha! Don’t be intimidated by your age, and take the next step and get a consultation.

2. Check with your dental insurance your Aligners/Braces could be FREE!!

My insurance paid for HALF of my Invisalign aligners. Always check in with your insurance carrier to see how much they may cover before starting the process.

2. Orthodontists specialize in installing braces

An orthodontist specializes in installing braces and understanding the structure of the mouth. They can determine if there are issues with the movement of your teeth, and fix the problem as soon as it arises. They will check for tooth decay and determine whether your teeth are healthy enough for braces. You deserve a doctor who is an expert and who can remedy the problem if there is an issue. Someone who works on Invisalign on the side,  may not have the expertise you are looking for. Your smile is worth it!

3. You won’t have as many appointments

You won’t be seeing your ortho as much as you would with traditional braces, since all the movement of your teeth is mapped out during the initial visit. The best part- no wire tightening is needed.

4. The aligners will take about 6-8 weeks to arrive

Making costume aligners that meet your specific needs takes time. After your initial visit,  where your teeth get scanned, you have to wait 6-8 weeks for your ortho to receive them. Customization takes time. Be patient!

5.There will be SOME pain

Remember your teeth are shifting so there will be some pain. Depending on your level of tolerance, it may hurt more for some than others. Just know it is part of the process and it will soon end. Focus on your end goal. If you have questions or concerns,  call your ortho. 

6. Don’t take your aligners OUT

Having a foreign object in your mouth can be really annoying! Knowing you can remove them whenever you want,  takes discipline. So no matter how weird this piece of plastic feels in your mouth, keep them in! Change won’t happen without consistency. 

7. The timeline is different for everyone

Remember,  your case is unique to you and your mouth, so don’t compare yourself to anyone when it comes to your timeline. My teeth are scheduled to take about 12 months to straighten, your teeth may take longer or shorter. 

Below please see my before and almost done photos (I have about 2 months to go). My Invisalign experience was completely worth it and I would recommend anyone who has thought about it, to take the plunge.

I will post updated photos as soon as my Journey is complete!

If you have any questions, please send me a comment. I will be sure to reply!

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