Is Your Teenager Ready For Invisalign?

When it comes to correcting a misshapen smile, there is now more than a single option. Teenagers, as you may already have noticed, are very appearance-conscious. If it's time to consider some orthodontic treatment for your teen, they may balk at having traditional braces installed. A lot of attention has become focused on aligner braces, also known as Invisalign. To help you determine whether or not aligners are a good option for your teen, read on.

The Differences in Traditional Braces and Invisalign

Traditional braces involve the placement of brackets on the fronts of teeth and wires being attached to those brackets that can be gradually tightened over time. As the wires are tightened, they pull the teeth and jaw bones into alignment over the course of several months. Your teen, however, may also be interested in the Invisalign option.

Invisalign devices are removable and appear as trays or covers for your teeth. Made of clear but tough plastic material, these trays fit over your teeth and are virtually invisible, unlike traditional braces. Also unlike regular braces, Invisalign devices can be removed for a couple of hours a day for cleaning and eating. Every few weeks, a new tray replaces the old tray. This option may not be appropriate for all teens, however.

Signs of Readiness

The following points should be considered when making the Invisalign decision for a teen:

1. The child must have lost all of their baby teeth. Children lose their baby teeth at various times and some young teenagers or preteens may not quite be there yet. They must also have all permanent teeth fully grown in before they can be fitted for an Invisalign device.
2. The child must be mature enough to wear the devices for the amount of time that is prescribed. Failure to abide by the usage guidelines could extend the treatment time by multiple months.
3. The child should be responsible enough to keep up with the devices. There is always a chance that your teen could remove the tray and lose it. While it can often be replaced inexpensively, the time lost with the creation of a new device could set back the treatment schedule.

Benefits of an Invisalign Device

• An improved smile appearance over traditional braces.
• Easier cleaning procedures – your teen brushes and flosses as usual.
• No visits to the office for tightening and maintenance since a new tray is shipped automatically every few weeks.
• More comfortable to the wearer and easier to adjust to than traditional braces.

Ask your dental treatment professional about Invisalign aligners for your teen today.