Is Invisalign Right for My Teen?

Few things can boost confidence like a straighter smile. However, that’s not the only benefit of orthodontic treatment: correcting bite and alignment issues makes eating easier, helps protect teeth from damage, and reduces the risk of other serious dental issues.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment for your teen, you’ve come to the right place: we offer metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign clear aligners!

Is Invisalign a Good Choice for Teenagers?

There are pros and cons to Invisalign for teens.

For example, teens love that Invisalign aligners are made of smooth, clear plastic so they don’t disrupt their appearance or irritate their cheeks. And unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners removed when eating so it doesn’t have food restrictions (besides no chewing gum).

On the other hand, Invisalign requires teens to: keep track of their aligners throughout the treatment process; follow through with their wear time of 20-22 hours a day; take them out when eating and drinking anything other than water; and properly clean their teeth and aligners in the morning, after eating, and at night.

Does Invisalign Hurt?

Some of our teen patients with Invisalign report feeling some discomfort when wearing the aligners, especially on the first day or two. This is normal, as the aligner works to gradually push the teeth into their optimal positions. We recommend using over-the-counter pain medication or an ice pack to ease soreness. If your child feels severe pain at any time while wearing their Invisalign aligners, please call us immediately!

What Is the Process for Getting Invisalign?

The first step in determining whether Invisalign is right for your teen is to schedule a consultation with our team. We’ll discuss your teen’s oral health history and lifestyle, their goals for their smile, and your budget. If we all agree that Invisalign is the best option, we’ll move forward by taking dental impressions. Then, your child’s aligners can be custom-created. Your teen will wear them for about two weeks before switching to the next set in their treatment plan. Average treatment time is 12 to 18 months. This can be extended due to a few different factors, such as poor oral hygiene, dental disease, and insufficient wear time.

To learn more about Invisalign for your teen, please schedule a consultation for them at Tots to Teens Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. Contact us today!

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Categorised in: Orthodontics