A Braces Alternative for Teens
While braces used to be a high school rite of passage, Invisalign for kids and teens is now a possibility thanks to Invisalign® Teen. Our younger patients who have their 12-year molars can get straight teeth and a healthy bite without brackets and wires. Invisalign Teen works in the same way as Invisalign for adults, however, the treatment is designed especially for teenagers with features like eruption tabs to accommodate erupting teeth and a few, free replacement aligners included in the system. To find out if your child is a candidate for Invisalign Teen in Denver, schedule a consultation at Foundations Orthodontics online or by calling us at (303) 694-4330!
The Benefits of Invisalign Teen
Virtually Invisible
Invisalign Teen aligners are made of clear, smooth, BPA-free plastic and they fit over the teeth kind of like super comfortable mouthguards. This means, they’re virtually invisible and most people won’t notice your teen has them in. Instead of brackets and wires obscuring their grin, they can smile with confidence all throughout their treatment.
Zero Food Restrictions
Since Invisalign Teen aligners are removable and teenagers will take them out to eat and drink anything aside from plain water, there are zero food restrictions. The common foods to avoid with braces like pizza crust and popcorn are still on the menu during clear aligner treatment. The aligners are also taken out before brushing and flossing, making oral hygiene a breeze.
Won’t Interfere With Hobbies
If your teenager plays sports or is a musician, clear aligners could be a great choice. Unlike with traditional braces, kids don’t have to worry about brackets or wires cutting them while trying to hit a high note on their instrument or if they get hit with an opponent's elbow during a game. This lets patients focus less on their appliance and more on doing the things they love.
Is Invisalign Teen Right for My Child?
While the only way to know for certain if Invisalign Teen is right for your child is to schedule an exam with Dr. Moran or Dr. White, if you’re worried about whether or not your teenager is responsible enough for clear aligners, breathe a sigh of relief. In general, most teenagers are actually amazing at keeping track of their aligners. If they do lose one, there are a limited number of free replacement aligners built into the treatment.
Aside from that, the aligners don’t require special techniques and tools for oral hygiene, which is a huge plus for patients who struggle with being diligent about brushing and flossing. The lack of food restrictions is another big bonus and means parents don’t have to worry about their child’s appliance being damaged if they indulge in something hard, sticky, or chewy.
