Why You Should Consider Invisalign for Teens

If your child 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 that has numerous benefits, especially for those who are self-conscious about their appearance. 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. Invisalign developed a special system for teens due to their still developing bone structure, hence its name, Invisalign for Teens. Parents should consider these aligners for teens with 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 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 more discreetly than other straightening methods.

The orthodontist will also advise patients to remove the aligners for eating, drinking, and cleaning. This means that no food will get stuck like it can with braces. Likewise, if the teenager has to give a speech in class, they can remove the aligners if wearing them causes slurring or mumbling.

Less discomfort

Traditional braces straighten the teeth via a wire that an orthodontist regularly tightens to pull the teeth together. The tightening process can cause minor soreness for a day or two after the appointment, leading to some patient discomfort. 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

Since patients can remove the trays at leisure, brushing, flossing, and receiving professional cleanings are much easier. 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 after removing the braces. This is not an issue with Invisalign for teens.

Reasons a patient may not be a candidate for Invisalign

During a consultation, the orthodontist will discuss with the teen and their parent everything that goes into wearing Invisalign. Invisalign may not be the right straightening method for a specific teen. For example, because of how the teeth move during the process, Invisalign may not be the most effective for severely misaligned teeth. Invisalign also may not work if there is a dental issue. The orthodontist will recommend treatment for any decay or gum disease before straightening can begin.

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