Invisalign is a popular option for adults who want to straighten their teeth without the use of traditional braces. But can Invisalign be used by teens? The simple answer is YES! In this blog post, we will discuss some of the amazing facts about Invisalign for teens. Keep reading to learn more!
Invisalign for Teens
Invisalign is a highly effective, FDA-approved orthodontic treatment that can be used to treat a wide variety of dental issues in both teens and adults. In fact, it may benefit a teen patient more than braces can.
Invisalign can be used to correct the following dental problems:
- Crowded teeth
- Gapped teeth
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
How does it work? Clear aligners are custom-made teeth trays for each patient that are designed to gradually move the teeth into the desired position. The aligners are made of strong, transparent plastic and are virtually invisible when worn. Invisalign is also removable, so patients can eat whatever they want and brush and floss their teeth with ease.
Benefits of Invisalign for Teens
Fact #1 – Invisalign is less visible than braces.
Since Invisalign clear aligners are made of transparent plastic, they are much less visible when worn than traditional metal braces. This is a huge advantage for teen patients who are self-conscious about their appearance. Invisalign allows teens to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to their treatment.
Fact #2 – Invisalign is more comfortable.
Another great benefit of Invisalign is that it is more comfortable to wear than braces. The clear aligners are made of smooth plastic, so they won’t irritate your gums or cheeks the way metal braces can. Invisalign is also removable, so you can take them out for activities such as playing sports or musical instruments.
Fact #3 – Invisalign treatment time can be shorter (depending on the case).
In some cases, Invisalign treatment can be completed in as little as six months! The average treatment time for Invisalign goes between 6-18 months while the average treatment time for braces is between 18-24 months. Invisalign is a great option for teen patients who want to straighten their teeth in a shorter amount of time.
The Invisalign Teen Version
Invisalign built a version specifically for teenage patients, Invisalign Teen. Invisalign Teen has a few features that make it an ideal treatment option for teenagers.
Fact #4 – It features eruption tabs.
Invisalign Teen comes with “eruption tabs” to account for the fact that the teen patient’s teeth are still growing. The eruption tabs help to make sure that the Invisalign aligners fit properly as the teeth continue to grow.
Fact #5 – It has wear indicators.
Invisalign Teen also has “wear indicators” to help parents and orthodontists track whether or not the patient is wearing their Invisalign aligners for the recommended 22 hours per day. The wear indicators will fade from blue to clear when they’ve been worn long enough.
Fact #6 – It provides replacement aligners.
Since Invisalign Teen patients are still growing, they may need replacement aligners during treatment. Invisalign Teen comes with up to six replacement aligners in case any are lost or broken.
The Process of Invisalign for Teens
The Invisalign process is simple and straightforward. First, you will schedule a consultation with an Invisalign-certified orthodontist. Dr. Eliane John will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and bite to determine if Invisalign is the right treatment option for you.
If Invisalign is right for you, Dr. John will take digital impressions of your teeth and create a customized treatment plan. Once your Invisalign aligners are ready, you will come back to our office to pick them up and get started on your Invisalign journey!
You will need to wear your Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours per day and switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks. You will also need to come in for regular check-ups every six weeks or so to make sure that your treatment is on track.
When treatment is completed, you will need to wear a retainer to maintain your new, straight smile!
Best Invisalign Teen Provider in Coral Springs, FL Area
Dr. John is one of the top Invisalign Teen providers in Coral Springs, FL. She and our awesome orthodontic team has helped many teenage patients achieve their dream smiles. She is a board-certified orthodontist who combines 20 years of work experience and training.
Dr. John is experienced with the latest technologies, including self-ligating braces, Invisalign®, Invisalign Teen®, temporary anchorage devices as well as dental facial orthopedics. She is also an active member of the American Board of Orthodontics, the American Association of Orthodontists, and the South Florida Association of Orthodontists.
If you want to receive the highest quality Invisalign Teen treatment in the Coral Springs area, look no further than John Orthodontics! Contact us today to schedule your consultation.