Invisalign for Teen: Benefits, Concerns & Candidacy

 Asad A | May 21, 2024

Since they were first developed, Invisalign® clear aligners have become incredibly popular for orthodontic treatment, especially among teenagers. They were made to help people with crooked teeth and misaligned jaws get straighter teeth without having to wear obvious and uncomfortable braces with wires. Sometimes, these clear aligners can even work better than traditional braces because they use gentle, steady pressure to move teeth into place.

This blog will cover the benefits of Invisalign for teens, along with addressing potential concerns that parents may have. Additionally, we delve into the eligibility criteria for individuals considering Invisalign treatment.

Benefits of Invisalign for Teens

The following are the benefits of Invisalign for Teens.

Easy to Use

If you or someone you know has had traditional metal braces, you understand the challenges they can pose. In contrast, clear aligners offer convenience because they are removable. Invisalign aligners must be removed when eating to eliminate worries about food getting stuck. They can also be briefly removed for events like giving a class presentation or attending a special occasion.

As long as your teen wears the aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily, they will be effective.

Enhanced Oral Hygiene

The ability to remove aligners makes it much simpler for teens to maintain proper oral hygiene. Unlike traditional braces, which require special flossing tools and unique brushing methods for effectiveness, Invisalign aligners allow for regular brushing and flossing routines. Patients with traditional braces often struggle with dental staining and gum disease due to difficulties in cleaning.

Using the same brushing techniques and floss as usual with Invisalign clear aligners helps teens maintain good oral health throughout their orthodontic treatment.

Boosted Self-Confidence

Getting through adolescence is tough without worrying about being teased for having braces. Invisalign clear aligners are subtle and blend seamlessly, letting teens keep their natural look. Rather than denting self-confidence, clear aligners improve it as they enhance your teen's smile.

Comfortable Experience

Metal braces can be uncomfortable, causing mouth sores and irritation from wires and brackets. On the other hand, clear aligners are designed to be comfortable. The smooth plastic won't rub against your gums or cheeks, providing a more pleasant experience.

Fewer Dental Visits

Invisalign reduces the likelihood of broken wires or brackets, which means fewer emergency trips to the dentist or orthodontist for your teen. They also won't need as many regular appointments for adjustments, cutting down on overall visits to the dental office.

Concerns About Invisalign for Teens

Compliance and misplacement are two major concerns when it comes to Invisalign for teens.

Compliance

For clear aligners to be effective, they must be worn consistently, ideally for 20-22 hours each day. If your teen tends to forget responsibilities or is not diligent about following instructions, Invisalign may not be the most suitable choice.

Invisalign for Teen addresses this concern by providing assistance to parents in ensuring their teenager wears the aligners as prescribed. These aligners feature blue indicator dots that gradually fade with wear. A prominent blue dot indicates to parents if their teen is not wearing the aligners as required.

Misplacement

Since clear aligners are removable, there's a risk of misplacing them. We've heard numerous stories of aligners accidentally ending up in the trash during lunchtime or getting lost in other situations. While these instances are usually accidental, replacing lost aligners can be costly and time-consuming for both you and your teen.

Invisalign Candidacy

To find out if your child qualifies for Invisalign, it's wise to meet with an experienced Invisalign dentist or orthodontist. In the meantime, consider these three factors that often indicate a teen is a good candidate for Invisalign:

  1. Mild to moderate orthodontic issues: Invisalign is effective for addressing issues like gaps, crowding, overbites, and underbites within this range. Severe cases may require traditional braces or other orthodontic treatments.
  2. Optimal oral health: Teens should have healthy teeth and gums before starting any orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign. Any cavities or gum disease should be resolved beforehand.
  3. Age and responsibility level: While Invisalign is suitable for many teens, younger or less responsible individuals may benefit more from traditional metal braces. These braces rely more on the orthodontist's management, ensuring the treatment progresses effectively.

Learn More About Invisalign for Teens

Invisalign for Teen offers numerous benefits, including convenience, improved oral health, boosted self-confidence, and reduced discomfort compared to traditional braces. However, concerns such as compliance and misplacement should be considered. Determining candidacy requires consultation with an experienced Invisalign dentist or orthodontist.

If you're in Toronto, visit Invisalign Toronto on Front Street West for personalized care. Book an appointment online or call (647) 931-2983 for new patients and (416) 551-4401 for others.

FAQ

How long should teens wear Invisalign aligners each day?

Teens should wear Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours daily for effective results.

Can Invisalign treat severe orthodontic issues for teens?

Invisalign for teens is suitable for mild to moderate orthodontic issues. Severe cases may require alternative treatments.

Are there age restrictions for teens to use Invisalign?

Invisalign is generally suitable for teens, but age and responsibility levels are considered factors. Consultation with an orthodontic professional is recommended.

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