Truths and Myths About Invisalign for Teens

Invisalign® for teens can offer adolescents a more comfortable and discreet option for straightening their teeth. For years, traditional metal braces were one of the only options for effectively treating a crooked smile. Even though Invisalign has provided an alternative for decades, some people may not be familiar with who it is for and how it works.

Common myths about Invisalign treatment

Understanding the facts about using clear aligner trays can help patients determine which approach is right for their unique needs. In addition, teens and their parents can discuss any questions with an orthodontist to help develop a treatment plan that will work for them.

Myth: Only adults can use Invisalign

Originally, when Invisalign was first developed, it was only offered to adults who wanted straighter teeth without traditional braces. However, technological advances, products, and design have allowed this company to expand its patient range, including options for teenagers and even children with alignment issues. In fact, Invisalign for teens has continued to increase in popularity over the past few years.

Myth: Invisalign treatment is faster than using regular braces

How long a teen’s treatment lasts depends on a variety of factors:

• Age
• Overall oral health
• The extent of alignment issues
• Compliance with wearing the trays
• Ability to maintain regular appointments

In some cases, Invisalign treatment may be faster than wearing braces. In others, it will take roughly the same amount of time. Patients who do not wear the trays for long enough periods may find their treatment takes longer than it would with braces. Only an orthodontist can give an accurate time window for the expected treatment duration.

While the overall time may not differ much, many patients find that when choosing Invisalign for teens, they notice visible results much faster. This can be a confidence booster for many people and helps encourage continued proper use and care.

Myth: Invisalign for teens is only effective for minor tooth alignment issues

While clear aligner trays can effectively address minor gaps or slightly crooked teeth, they can also treat more serious issues, including overbites and underbites, crossbites, larger gaps, and even open bites. However, the teen and their parent will need a professional evaluation with an orthodontist to determine whether Invisalign® for teens can improve their unique smile. Some more serious cases may require braces or at least some type of orthodontic or other dental work before treatment.

Myth: Invisalign trays only have to be worn at night

Although clear aligner trays are completely removable, people must wear them most of the time. Orthodontists recommend wearing them for at least 22 hours daily. For most people, this leaves just enough time to remove them for eating and toothbrushing and not much else. Retainers, which will be issued after treatment is complete, may need to be worn for longer periods at first, but they can eventually be worn only at night.