Adult Orthodontics: Why It’s Never Too Late for Invisalign®

Today, 1 in 3 orthodontic patients are adults, whether it’s to correct long-standing issues or to fix teeth that have shifted over time. A properly aligned smile isn't just about how you look; it’s about how your mouth functions. Straighter teeth are easier to clean and less prone to uneven wear.

At our practice in Santa Monica, Dr. Jason Ray, DDS, helps adults achieve and reclaim their best smiles with Invisalign®. Invisalign lets you correct misalignments without enduring the pain or appearance of metal brackets and wires. 

The health benefits of straight teeth

While many people seek orthodontics for cosmetic reasons, there are significant health advantages to aligning your bite. Crowded or crooked teeth create tight spaces that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss. This increases the risk of cavities and gum disease. When your teeth don't meet correctly, it can also put extra stress on your jaw joints, leading to headaches or TMJ pain.

As long as your gums and bone structure are healthy, your teeth can be moved at any age. Aligning your teeth helps preserve your natural smile as you get older by reducing the risk of tooth fractures and gum recession.

The magic of Invisalign

Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift your teeth into the correct position. This system offers several benefits that traditional braces can't match. Because the aligners are virtually invisible, most people won't even notice you're wearing them. This is especially helpful for professionals who spend a lot of time in meetings or on video calls.

• You can remove the aligners to eat, so there are no food restrictions.
• Brushing and flossing stay easy since there are no wires to navigate.
• The smooth plastic material doesn't irritate your cheeks or gums.
• Office visits are generally shorter and less frequent than with metal braces.

The average treatment time for Invisalign is often comparable to, or even shorter than, that of traditional braces, depending on the complexity of the case.

What to expect during treatment

Your treatment begins with a digital scan of your mouth at our Santa Monica office. We use this to create a 3D map of your treatment. You'll see a preview of how your teeth will move and what your final smile will look like before you even start. Each set of aligners is worn for about one to two weeks before you move on to the next set in the series.

Consistency is the most important factor in your success. You'll need to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day to keep your progress on track. 

Most of our adult patients find this easy to manage. It’s a small investment of time for a lifetime of confidence. To learn whether Invisalign is right for you, book a consultation with Dr. Ray. Call the Santa Monica office at 424-322-6950, or request an appointment online.