Is Invisalign Teen Ideal for Your Child?

Orthodontics is such a popular dental treatment among teens and young adults that it has practically become a rite of passage. It’s no wonder over 3.5 million kids start wearing braces each year. Orthodontic treatments continue to evolve, with modern options being more subtle and effective. Invisalign is one popular option among most teens. It provides increased flexibility as the patient can remove the plastic trays. Its relative invisibility makes it an excellent option for kids with self-esteem issues and those that are self-conscious about how they look. Additionally, it can correct a variety of dental issues, ranging from cosmetically mild to serious malocclusions.

However, most parents grew up wearing traditional braces to acquire straight teeth and may be skeptical about this revolutionary treatment. This guide attempts to answer a few common questions that most parents have about Invisalign treatment.

Is Invisalign Teen as Effective as Metal Braces?

In orthodontics, all aligners work using the same principle to correct the malocclusion. The braces apply gentle pressure on the teeth, gradually pushing them to the correct positions. Invisalign Teen utilizes custom, clear plastic plates that fit over the teeth.

Your child may have to wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day, changing the set every two weeks. Switching to new clear plates works in the same manner as an orthodontist tightening the wires and brackets. Invisalign Teen is specifically designed for teenagers, making the trays comfortable and effective for your child’s orthodontic treatment.

Is Your Child Old Enough?

One of the most common questions at our Central Florida Orthodontic offices is whether there is an age limit to braces treatment. Early orthodontic treatment is highly recommended across the board, with your first appointment not later than your child’s seventh birthday.

However, most orthodontists will hold off treatment until your child loses all their primary teeth. You can wear the Invisalign for teeth even when all adult teeth are yet to be fully formed. The orthodontists at Best Orthodontics can inspect your child’s teeth and inform you if it is the right time to start treatment.

Is Your Child Responsible Enough for Invisalign?

Wearing any orthodontic device comes with a great deal of responsibility, especially for dental hygiene. Your child may need to brush and floss their teeth properly to remove any food particles that hide between the plates. As a parent, you may have to follow up on their oral hygiene practices to ensure that they follow them as requested.

The beauty of Invisalign Teen is that your child can remove the trays while eating, brushing, or even playing their favorite instrument. However, they’ll need to remember to put them back in to keep up with the 20-22 hour daily rule. If your child is often misplacing their items and forgetting their assignment, perhaps they are not responsible enough to keep track of their Invisalign aligners. You know your child and their habits best. Follow your gut feeling in determining if Invisalign is the right treatment for them.

Get Your Teen Invisalign

Invisalign Teen is an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces treatment. If you are still unsure if the clear aligners are the right choice for your child, reach out to Best Smiles Orthodontics. Our orthodontists will inspect your child’s teeth to determine if they are an ideal candidate.