As orthodontic technology advances, more and more parents are curious about the suitability of Invisalign® aligners for their teenagers. Traditionally, metal braces were the go-to solution for correcting dental issues during the adolescent years. However, Invisalign, with its clear removable aligners, offers a less invasive and visually appealing alternative. That’s exactly why it’s offered by our Ann Arbor Invisalign orthodontist.
This guide will explore the considerations, benefits, and process of opting for .
What Are Invisalign Aligners?
Invisalign clear aligners are custom-made, plastic trays that fit snugly over your top and bottom teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position. Unlike traditional braces, these are almost invisible and can be removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing, providing a more comfortable and hygienic treatment option. If chosen, our Invisalign orthodontist will provide you with multiple sets of aligners to be used over the course of your planned treatment.
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Each set of clear dental aligners in a complete series applies controlled force to teeth that will straighten your smile and fix bite issues over time. The main difference with Invisalign, however, is the absence of any wires, brackets, or elastics. On average, desired results can be achieved in 12-18 months but this timeframe varies. For example, patients with minor crowding and no bite problems may need 6 months to correct their smile while others may need a year or so.
Is Your Teen a Candidate for Invisalign?
Age Considerations
One of the first questions parents in Ann Arbor ask is whether their teen is old enough for Invisalign. Generally, Invisalign treatment is suitable for teenagers with most of their adult teeth fully erupted. This typically occurs around the ages of 12 to 14, but it can vary.
Dental Assessments
An initial consultation with our qualified orthodontist is essential. Dr. Bedi will assess your teen’s teeth, jaw, and overall oral health to determine if Invisalign is the best course of treatment. Factors such as the type and severity of dental issues, oral hygiene habits, and the teen’s commitment to wearing the aligners as prescribed play a crucial role in this decision.
Benefits of Invisalign for Teens:
Aesthetics
Are you embarrassed about braces showing up in graduation photos or every day at school? The clear design of Invisalign aligners is a significant advantage for teens who are self-conscious about their appearance. This can lead to increased confidence and self-esteem during these formative years.
Comfort and Convenience
Invisalign clear aligners are made of smooth plastic, making them more comfortable than metal braces that can irritate the mouth. Additionally, the removability of Invisalign allows teens to continue enjoying their favorite foods without restrictions.
Oral Hygiene
Maintaining oral hygiene is simpler with Invisalign. Since the aligners can be removed, teens can brush and floss their teeth more effectively than with traditional braces, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease. Most patients find it easiest to brush their teeth at the same time they’re also cleaning clear aligners.
You can help keep aligners clean by:
- Rinsing them with lukewarm water (never hot or boiling)
- Gently brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or unscented clear soap (no soaking in mouthwash)
- Thoroughly rinsing them again after brushing is done
- Storing the aligners in their protective case when eating or drinking to keep them safe
The Invisalign Process for Teens
Customized Treatment Plan
The process begins with a detailed scan of your teen’s mouth, which is used to create a digital treatment plan. This plan outlines the step-by-step transformation of the teeth and how long the clear aligner treatment will last, typically around 12 to 18 months, though it varies by individual.
Commitment to Wear
For optimal results, clear aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours a day, only being removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, and oral hygiene practices. Need help keeping track of the time your aligners are out for a meal? Try setting a timer on your phone. That way, when it rings later you are held accountable and can keep your treatment on schedule.
Regular Check-ups
Your teen will need to visit our local Invisalign orthodontist regularly, usually every 4 to 6 weeks, to monitor progress and receive new aligner sets.
Invisalign Treatment at Enhance Orthodontics
Choosing Invisalign for a teen is a decision that should be made in consultation with our qualified orthodontist. With its aesthetic and practical benefits, Invisalign aligners can be an excellent option for many teenagers, helping them achieve a beautiful, healthy smile with minimal disruption to their daily lives. Remember, a confident smile is one of the best investments you can make in your teen’s future.
Book an Invisalign Consultation
Dr. Jashleen Bedi is proud to serve as your trusted . She’s also accepting new patients and would be more than happy to determine what orthodontic treatment is best for your teen. To book an Invisalign consultation, please call Enhance Orthodontics today at (734) 821-7684. You may also fill out our online contact form and a member of our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.