53 year old wonders if it would be worth it.

By windywyo on 20 Feb 2012

I recently changed dentists and of course they want to do all kinds of stuff to "help", replace old crowns etc. I was also told that as you age your teeth tend to crowd as your face narrows with age. hmmm. also that it appears as though i am grinding my teeth as i sleep. So they suggested i try the invisalign, that it would help with many of the "issues". I am not sure I am up for a year of what i have been reading. Any thoughts from anyone close to my age that has had it done.

Comments (5)

mskitkat56 30 Apr 2013

I personally wouldn't get Invisalign unless the appearance of your teeth bothers you. A night guard will prevent the teeth grinding. I agree with getting a consultation from an orthodontist who can advise you of all your options.

Abbey01 30 Apr 2013

Hi windywyo, I'm only 43 but have a similar situation: my teeth have been getting more crowded in the front, plus I have been grinding my teeth at night, and in their crowded configuration I'm actually starting to grind away the enamel. I'm doing Invisalign to correct the bite so my teeth won't be coming together in such a destructive way. You should consider getting a second opinion, and I would suggest talking to an orthodontist (not just a dentist) who can give a better opinion on if or how your teeth should be adjusted. I was able to find an orthodontist who gave free estimates. This gave me more confidence in my decision, instead of just talking to my regular dentist, who seemed to be just telling everyone to do Invisalign. One thing to consider is to just get a night guard to protect your teeth from the night grinding. A custom-fitted one costs a few hundred dollars and you only wear it at night. That will stop any damage you're doing in your sleep; then there's no rush to make a decision about realignment. Invisalign is a huge investment of time and effort; don't let anyone push you into it! Best of luck.

jabedn 10 Apr 2012

I will be starting Invisalign on May 31st, I am very excited, just wish it was sooner.

FlyingSuz 1 Apr 2012

I'm almost 57 and just got Invisalign. Had braces as a kid but teeth had shifted badly. Like you had observed more crowding of late. Saw this not just in my mouth but in others as they aged. I figure that with Invisalign I can fix the current problem and control the "deterioration" (structural collapse might be a better term) that would otherwise occur. I think it's a worthwhile investment (obviously) in my health and appearance. The alternative was just let nature take its course---no thanks. My teeth are healthy and I expect that with any kind of luck, I'm looking at 3+ decades---and then kaput...looking good to the end ;)