When the teenage years hit, we become very self-conscious. Our body and looks are all we think about and most of a teenager’s efforts are centered around their appearance. So when the dentist announces they will need braces to get their teeth straightened, a teenager’s self-confidence takes a big hit. Invisalign is a better alternative to braces as it has many advantages when it comes to appearance. So, what is Invisalign teen? How does it work and what do you need to know about it? Read on for more information.
What is Invisalign teen?
The Invisalign aligners are made of flexible plastic. They are subtle as they are nearly invisible and fit on your teeth in a way that doesn’t bother you as much as braces. Invisalign aligners are aimed at moving your teeth gradually with minimal pain (Does Invisalign hurt? article). Every 2 weeks, you will need to switch your aligner trays to a different size. This continues until your teeth are straightened.
Teen Invisalign braces have a few additional features:
• Invisalign Teen aligners are easily removable and can be removed for activities such as sports or singing (that is in addition to eating, drinking, and cleaning teeth).
• Invisalign for teenagers doesn’t require metal wires. The aligners are so discrete that teenagers will be comfortable and confident while wearing them.
• Invisalign Teen is a gentle orthodontic treatment as it hurts way less than traditional braces.
How do Invisalign teen aligners work?
If, prior to your treatment, you are wondering “how does Invisalign teen work?”, here is your answer: Every 2 weeks, you will need to switch your aligner trays to a different size. This continues until your teeth are straightened. It is important you wear your aligners for a minimum of 22 hours a day. You can remove them to eat and clean your teeth, or even for sports activities.
How long does Invisalign for teens take?
Based on the severity of your orthodontic case, as well as the issue you are facing, Invisalign for teens can take as little as 3 to 6 months and as long as 24 months. You will be given a timeframe during your first appointment with your orthodontist.
How effective is Invisalign for teenagers?
Invisalign for teenagers can treat mild, moderate, as well as severe cases. It is up to your orthodontist to assess whether you need an Invisalign treatment or braces. Most, if not all, orthodontic cases treated by Invisalign are a success.
What’s the difference between Invisalign teen and Invisalign for adults?
Invisalign Teen and Invisalign for adults are mostly the same, except for two differences:
1. Invisalign Teen aligners have a small dot on the back that changes from blue to clear to white the more the person wears his or her aligners. This motivated the teenagers to wear their aligners as they should and to create a discipline around their treatment.
2. Due to a different lifestyle, teenagers receive more replacement aligners than adults, as they are more likely to lose them or break them (teenagers being more active).
Invisalign teen vs braces: which is better for your child?
Invisalign and traditional braces are both used for the same goal: gradual teeth straightening. Apart from the Invisalign vs braces cost (Invisalign cost article), there are many factors to consider when deciding - alongside your orthodontist - which one to choose. If you are wondering which is better for your child, here is a comparison between Invisalign Teen vs. braces:
The material
Invisalign Teen is made of transparent material that barely shows in the mouth. Since teenagers are very self-conscious, braces might make them embarrassed and withdrawn.
Easier oral care
Since Invisalign Teen aligners can be removed to clean your teeth - and let’s face it, braces cannot - it is easier and more comfortable for your teenager to have a normal oral care routine.
Effectiveness
Invisalign Teen aligners are as effective as traditional braces.
Adjustments
With traditional braces, you will need frequent appointments at the dentist’s to check the progress and replace the metals. With Invisalign Teen aligners, a wear indicator is easy to identify when a replacement is needed.
Comparable cost
Invisalign and traditional braces are often the same cost. Invisalign can sometimes be more affordable. Read all about it here.
Braces are more complicated
With traditional braces, you will need wires and bands - that will irritate the gums. Also, traditional braces cannot really accommodate the eruption of molars and canines.
How much is Invisalign teen on average?
Similarly to Invisalign for adults, Invisalign Teen’s cost can range from 3000 to 7000 USD. This depends on insurance and other factors.
Final Points about what is Invisalign teen
Invisalign Teen is a gentle tooth straightening treatment. Its effectiveness and easiness compared to metal braces make it less hard for a teenager to accept. It allows you to continue your daily life without interruptions and get your teeth straightened in all confidence!
FAQs
Is Invisalign good for a teenager?
If a teenager is committed to having their smile straightened fast and in an efficient manner, Invisalign Teen has the best results. They must be willing to wear their aligners as per the dentist’s instructions and commit to their treatment.
What age is appropriate for Invisalign Teen?
Starting 12 years old, and up until 17 years old!
How is Invisalign used in school?
Invisalign Teen can be worn all day at school, and removed for eating and activities. The patient should carry a special case for his or her aligners and rinse them well after removing them and putting them back on.
How old should you be to use Invisalign?
Invisalign Teen aligners can be worn starting at 12 years old.
