Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

While every smile is unique, our experience at Bright Valley Dental has shown that the best outcomes share common foundations. Here’s what we look for.

1. You Have a “Mature” Approach to Your Health

When we say “mature,” we don’t mean your age. We’re talking about mindset. The single most important factor for Invisalign success is consistency.

• Invisalign works through consistent, gentle pressure. To keep your treatment on track, the aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours per day. This requires a level of personal discipline that many teenagers (and even some adults) find challenging.

• If you’re someone who values routine, follows through on commitments, and is proactive about your health, you already possess the #1 trait of a perfect candidate. This is why we see phenomenal results with motivated professionals, parents, and teens alike at our Elgin, IL office.

2. Your Bite Issue is More Than Just “Crooked Teeth”

Many people think Invisalign only fixes crowding. The truth is, its capabilities have expanded dramatically. You might be a candidate if you have:

• Crowding: The classic sign, teeth overlapping due to lack of space.
• Spacing (Gaps): Whether from genetics or tooth shifting after an extraction.
• Overbite: When your upper front teeth overlap significantly with your lower front teeth.
• Underbite: When your lower teeth protrude past your upper teeth.
• Crossbite: When some of your upper teeth bite inside your lower teeth.
• Open Bite: When your front teeth don’t touch when your back teeth are closed.

The Key Differentiator at Bright Valley Dental: Dr. Varma’s advanced postdoctoral training in orthodontics means he can diagnose and treat complex bite issues that other general dentists might refer out. He uses state-of-the-art iTero digital scanning to create a precise 3D model of your mouth, allowing him to plan your tooth movements with incredible accuracy from day one.

3. You’re a “Lifestyle Chameleon” Who Values Discretion 

This is a huge advantage that traditional braces can’t match. Invisalign is virtually invisible, allowing you to live your life without a pause.

• For the Professional: Confidently lead meetings and interact with clients without your orthodontic treatment being a focal point.

• For the Special Occasion: Walk down the aisle, give a graduation speech, or take professional headshots with a clear, confident smile.

• For the Foodie & Athlete: The aligners are removable. Enjoy a caramel apple, eat popcorn, or play a contact sport without restrictions. Simply take them out, enjoy your activity, and brush your teeth before re-inserting.

• Mówimy po polsku & Hablamos Espanol: We believe clear communication is vital. Our ability to discuss your treatment in your preferred language ensures you are fully comfortable and informed every step of the way.

4. You Prioritize Oral Hygiene (Or Want to Make it Easier)

Let’s be honest, brushing and flossing with braces is a chore. Wires and brackets create countless hiding spots for plaque, increasing the risk of decay and gum inflammation.

• The Invisalign Advantage: Because you remove your aligners to eat and drink, you can brush and floss exactly as you normally would. This makes maintaining impeccable oral hygiene throughout your treatment straightforward, protecting your teeth and gums while you straighten them.

5. You’re Motivated by a “Preventative Mindset”

Straightening your teeth isn’t just cosmetic. It’s a powerful long-term health investment.

• Prevent Wear and Tear: Crooked teeth and a misaligned bite can cause uneven wear, leading to chipped teeth and enamel erosion.

• Easier Cleaning: Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing your lifelong risk of cavities and periodontal disease.

• Solve Functional Issues: A proper bite can alleviate jaw pain (TMJ/TMD), reduce headaches, and improve chewing function.