Is Invisalign for teens? The general answer is yes! Invisalign is the name for an orthodontic system in which a series of plastic aligners are designed to correct crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth.
Invisalign works well for responsible teens who can follow a treatment plan and care for aligners. Moreover, Invisalign is less disruptive to your teen’s schedule, eating habits, and social life.
Braces Versus Invisalign for Teens
Conventional braces include two main parts – brackets are cemented to the surface of teeth and an archwire is threaded through the brackets. Pressure is applied to teeth through the archwire to correct alignment and spacing of teeth. Moreover, appliances, such as headgear, springs, and bands can be connected to the braces to reposition the jaw to correct an overbite or underbite.
Invisalign begins with a three-dimensional model of your teen’s teeth and bite. Your orthodontist will create a treatment plan and prescribe specific tooth movements based on the model. Invisalign technicians will manufacture a set of aligners using 3D printing. Each aligner differs slightly from the next aligner to gradually moving the teeth from the starting position to the ending position.
Invisalign for Teens – Removable
One benefit of Invisalign for teens is that the aligners can be removed to brush teeth, eat, and for special occasions, like school dances.
However, because aligners are removable, Invisalign is best for teens who are dedicated to wearing their aligners for about 22 hours per day. Moreover, the aligners can be broken or lost while removed.
Invisalign for Teens – Invisible
Invisalign aligners are 3-D printed from clear plastic. This means that aligners are virtually invisible when being worn. For teens, this can provide a substantial benefit to their self-confidence and social life.
Invisalign for Teens – Faster
If worn as directed, a major benefit of Invisalign for teens is that the treatment can be completed more quickly than conventional braces. Broken brackets on traditional braces can cause delays in treatment as tooth movement may need to be corrected.
Is Invisalign for Teens?
Invisalign is best suited for teens who can take care of the aligners and wear them properly during treatment. The benefits of Invisalign for teens can be substantial and include faster treatment using removable, invisible aligners.
To learn more about Invisalign for teens, contact us for a consultation.