Invisalign is a popular form of orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic aligners to move teeth rather than traditional metal wires and brackets. While not every orthodontic case can use Invisalign, Invisalign can treat most of the orthodontic issues that traditional braces can.
While Invisalign is popular among adults, it’s also a great option for teens who need orthodontic treatment. Let’s look at a few of the reasons why Invisalign is a great option for your teen!
Invisalign Is Completely Removable
Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners aren’t fixed to your teen’s teeth. The aligners are completely removable, which means that your teenager will be able to remove the aligners to clean their teeth. This is a big benefit of Invisalign because it can be difficult to properly clean teeth with braces, which can lead to plaque accumulation that can increase your teen’s risk for gum disease. But with Invisalign, there are no barriers in the way to prevent your child from properly cleaning their smile to reduce their risk of oral disease, and research shows this can lead to better periodontal health throughout their orthodontic treatment [1].
Clear Aligners Offer More Comfort
With regular braces, there can be a bit of an adjustment period for teens and adults alike. Traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires, which can be uncomfortable on the gum tissue for a period of time while the oral cavity adjusts. For some teens, this can cause sores or discomfort. However, with Invisalign aligners, most people report greater comfort while receiving treatment than they do with braces [2]. This can be important to help your teen feel more motivated and confident about their orthodontic treatment since their discomfort will be minimal.
Safer for Sports
Teens who have metal orthodontia are more at risk to experience soft tissue injuries in their oral cavity during sports. While wearing a mouthguard can certainly help, it’s not a guarantee that your teen won’t experience a dental emergency with metal braces, which can cut the gum tissue on impact. With Invisalign, the aligners can simply be removed during sports practice so your teen can wear a mouthguard without worrying about orthodontia potentially hurting their gums.
Not to Mention…
Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, and it’s difficult to tell if your teen is even receiving orthodontic treatment. This means they can smile, laugh, and take pictures without having metal orthodontia in the way. Many teens find that their confidence is improved with Invisalign versus traditional braces, and as a bonus, the aligners don’t restrict them from eating all their favorite foods [3]!
Does Your Teen Need Braces?
If your teen needs orthodontic treatment, ask your orthodontist if your teen qualifies for treatment with Invisalign as opposed to regular braces. With all the benefits of Invisalign for teens, your child will thank you!
Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4478712/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28753032/
3. https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/505459
