Why You Should Consider Invisalign for Teens

If your son or daughter is concerned about crooked teeth or a bad bite, you may want to consider Invisalign® for teens. This is an alternative to metal or ceramic braces, and it has numerous benefits, especially for those who are self-conscious about how they look. There are various reasons why Invisalign may be the right choice, but not everyone is a good candidate.

Reasons to consider Invisalign for teens

Invisalign has become very popular among many age groups due to its numerous benefits. It should be a consideration if your teenager has misalignments, an overcrowded mouth, an underbite or overbite, gaps between the teeth, or overlapping teeth.

Less embarrassing

One of the reasons why Invisalign for teens is popular is because the clear aligners are much more subtle than having traditional braces. Teenagers often feel pressure to look as good as possible, and braces can be awkward. The almost-invisible trays help teens fix their teeth and bite without the embarrassment that comes with other straightening methods.

The aligners are also taken out for eating, drinking, and cleaning. This means that no food will get stuck like it can with braces. If the teenager has to give a speech in class, the aligners can also be taken out if wearing them causes some slurring or mumbling.

Less discomfort

Traditional braces straighten the teeth via a wire that is tightened regularly to pull the teeth together, and this is often painful. With Invisalign, the aligners are custom-fit to apply pressure on the teeth. Although the trays may feel tight, especially when transitioning to the new ones, there is less discomfort than with braces.

Easier to practice good oral hygiene

Because the trays can be taken out, this makes it much easier to brush, floss, and receive professional cleanings. Although the trays require some special cleaning, it is quick and easy. With braces, the teeth around the brackets can get stained, leaving a whiter spot in the middle once the braces are removed. This is not an issue with Invisalign for teens.

Less-than-ideal candidates

During a consultation, the dentist will discuss what it takes to wear Invisalign. There are some red flags that indicate Invisalign may not be the right straightening method. Because of the way the teeth are moved, Invisalign may not be the most effective for severely misaligned teeth. Invisalign and other methods also do not work if there is a dental issue. Any decay or gum disease must be treated before straightening can begin.

Although the trays are removable, an individual should wear the aligners 20 to 22 hours a day for ideal results. If a teenager is only going to wear them occasionally, or forget to wear them at all, this may not be a good option. The ideal candidate should also be responsible and not lose them.