Invisalign for Teens: Am I a Good Candidate?

There are various options for those who want to straighten their teeth. Invisalign® for teens is a popular option for this age group, as it is less obvious than traditional metal braces. Invisalign consists of clear trays that fit over the top and bottom rows of teeth. This straightening method has many benefits. However, not everyone is a good candidate. To determine whether Invisalign is right for you, you should understand the types of patients who would best benefit from this treatment.

How Invisalign works

Unlike traditional braces, which attach to the teeth and are moved by connecting wires, the clear aligners of Invisalign for teens and adults are removable and move the teeth in a different direction. The orthodontist will take X-rays of the teeth and mouth and design the aligners to fit each patient’s specific needs.

The aligners should feel tight while the patient wears them, as this pressure moves the teeth into the desired position. The aligners will be replaced every two weeks once the orthodontist determines that the teeth are ready for a tighter fit. The correction occurs slowly, and reaching the desired position may take six to 18 months.

Good candidates for Invisalign for teens

Although Invisalign for teens is popular, it may not be the right choice for everyone. During a consultation, an experienced orthodontist can determine if the patient is a good candidate.

Individuals with mild to moderate misalignments

Invisalign is better suited for those with moderate misalignments or mild bite issues. However, clear aligners are not as effective for those with severely misaligned teeth because of how they move the teeth and how they can be removed. For these patients, metal or ceramic braces may be better options.

Motivated patients

A good candidate for Invisalign is someone who is motivated to have straight teeth and a great smile. Wearing aligners takes more self-motivation than other straightening methods. Although they are supposed to be worn most of the time, the patient can remove them for eating, brushing, or flossing. If a teenager takes them out more frequently than that, perhaps because they do not want to wear them to a school dance or a party, the results will take longer or may not occur at all.

Responsible people

Because patients can remove their clear aligners, they can be lost or forgotten easily. An ideal candidate is a responsible person who can keep track of the aligners, remembering to wear them as much as possible. Someone who is forgetful or loses things frequently may want to consider alternate options.