Is Your Teen Ready for Invisalign?

The teenage years.

These years consist of hectic schedules, after-school activities, new friends, so many emotions…well, you get the idea. If you have a teenager, you know adding one more thing onto their plate may cause them to have a breakdown. That’s why teens who need orthodontic treatment can rest easy knowing braces aren’t their only option anymore. They have the chance to correct their smile in a more discreet way with Invisalign.

Although this may sound like the perfect option, not all teens are ready to take on the responsibilities that go along with the Invisalign system. So, is your teen ready for Invisalign? Let us help you find the answer to that question.

About the Invisalign System

You have probably heard of Invisalign before, yet you may not know exactly what it is or how it works. As orthodontic treatment becomes more attainable, thanks to affordable payment plans and other financing options, you may have started seeing more and more people sporting these clear aligners. If your teen is interested in Invisalign, it’s important they know their success hinges upon their compliance with the program. This includes:

• Wearing the aligners properly (20-22 hours each day)
• Only removing the aligners to eat or drink
• Storing the aligners properly
• Keeping up with orthodontic visits

Invisalign works by gently moving the teeth, just like braces; however, instead of tightening wires, the trays are replaced. That’s why it’s so important to listen to your orthodontist when it comes to your treatment plan. If your teen is sure they can adhere to these rules, Invisalign may be an option for them.

Is Your Teen Ready for Invisalign Teen?

Because orthodontic professionals understand the chaos of being a teenager (we’ve all been there once, right?), Invisalign Teen was created. Although Invisalign Teen is very similar to the other Invisalign products, it does differ in a few ways. Geared toward teens and their busy lifestyles, it includes features not offered with the other Invisalign lines. These features include:

• Color indicators: Blue dots on the aligner trays fade as the trays are worn for the proper amount of time.
• Replacement trays: Up to six free replacement trays are included in case the unfortunate occurs and your teen loses their aligners.
• Room to grow: Invisalign Teen trays leave room for permanent teeth that may not have erupted yet.

These features make the Invisalign Teen system work better for this age demographic, thus helping teens achieve success with their treatment.

Invisalign and Your Teen

When worn properly, patients with Invisalign experience the same results as those with braces, often in a shorter time span. If your teen is interested in the Invisalign system, it’s recommended that you go over their responsibilities with them and ensure they are aware of the importance of adhering to the rules. After all, their success depends on it.

So, if your teen is ready to take on treatment with Invisalign Teen, speak with a qualified orthodontist about their options and get them started on the path to a beautiful smile.