Invisalign Teen: Straightening Your Teen’s Smile with Confidence

Orthodontic treatment may be recommended if your teen has crooked teeth, a misaligned bite, crowding, rotated, or gapped teeth. Traditionally, orthodontics used metal braces and rubber bands designed to shift the teeth into an aligned position gradually. With technical advancements, Invisalign was introduced, taking the world of dentistry by storm. Your teen can achieve a beautiful, straight smile without brackets or wires with Invisalign.

A Closer Look at the Invisalign Aligner System

Invisalign is a brand name for thin, clear aligners manufactured using a flexible thermoplastic material known as SmartTrack. They are commonly referred to as “clear braces” because they allow adolescents and adults to get the orthodontic treatment they want while remaining inconspicuous.

While Invisalign aligners are not entirely transparent, their translucent hue and snug construction make them considerably less noticeable than the metal braces and wires associated with traditional braces.

There are both benefits and drawbacks to using the Invisalign aligner system to straighten your teen’s teeth.

Pros:

• More excellent Aesthetics: One of the top reasons teens prefer Invisalign over traditional braces is that they are far less noticeable due to the absence of wires and brackets.
• Ease of Cleaning: Food and debris can be challenging to clean from metal braces, which can’t be removed. On the other hand, clear aligners can be temporarily removed from the mouth to allow for adequate brushing and flossing.
• Simple Removal: Metal braces are securely fastened using brackets glued to the teeth’s front surfaces. Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing your teen to remove them while they eat or clean their mouth.
• Fewer Problems: Traditional braces are more prone to issues that require professional intervention, such as a broken wire or a fallen bracket. These issues do not occur with Invisalign.

Cons:

• Not for Everyone: Due to their design, Invisalign aligners are not suited for all orthodontic cases. They are most effective for teens whose teeth require specific types of movements. More complex issues may require metal braces.
• Requires Removal When Eating and Drinking: Clear aligners must be removed when eating or drinking, which some teens may forget to do. Failure to remove them could damage the aligners or stain them from food and drink.
• Strict Compliance: As Invisalign is removable, some teens may take them out and forget to put them back in. To achieve its maximum benefits, the aligners must be worn at least 20 to 22 hours per day.
• Mild Discomfort: Similar to traditional braces, your teen may experience some mild discomfort as the teeth shift into place. This could limit the types of food they eat due to general soreness.

Invisalign can resolve many dental issues, including crowding and spacing issues. It is also suitable for mild to moderate bite problems, such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

While each case is unique, orthodontic treatment is generally recommended between  12 and 16. At this age, the jawbone is still growing, but permanent teeth usually replace the baby teeth. However, older teens and adults can still benefit from Invisalign if they meet specific criteria.

A good candidate for clear aligners is someone who:

• Has a fully erupted set of permanent teeth
• Has healthy teeth and gums
• Has mild to moderate dental issues, such as spacing, crowding, or malocclusion
• Prefers a discreet orthodontic treatment option
• Is committed to wearing the aligners for up to 22 hours per day
• Is mature enough to use the system as instructed

Speak with your child’s dentist in Melbourne, Florida, to determine if the Invisalign aligner system suits your teen. Alternative treatment options may be recommended.

Find Out If Invisalign Is Right for Your Teen

Many teens find the idea of virtually invisible braces attractive, especially those who may be self-conscious about their existing smile or the thought of getting metal braces. At Artistic Touch Dentistry, we are a premier destination for Invisalign treatment in West Melbourne. Contact our office today to learn more about our orthodontic services.