Dentists often recommend early intervention when it comes to straightening crooked teeth. By age 12, most kids will have lost their baby teeth, and they see permanent teeth grow into place during adolescence. So before these adult teeth fuse into place, you may want to take them to the dentist for a consultation to learn if they should seek teeth-straightening treatment.
Severe malocclusions may need orthodontic treatment, but a dentist can fix minor smile alignment issues with Invisalign. These custom-made, clear-colored trays fit over the teeth to gradually push them into the desired straighter position.
These aligners are usually popular with patients of all ages, especially teens, for a number of reasons. Read on to learn about three benefits of Invisalign treatment that make it preferable for young dental patients compared to other orthodontic solutions.
Subtle Appearance on the Teeth
High school can be a stressful time for your child. During puberty, their body goes through changes, and they can struggle to feel comfortable in their skin. Harsh metal braces can add another disruption to their appearance, even as they ultimately will see a straighter smile in the end.
Fortunately, your dentist can provide a more discreet alternative to straighten their teeth. Invisalign features transparent aligners custom-made to fit both comfortably and securely in the mouth. This personalized fit ensures a lower chance of the device slipping out of place at an inopportune moment.
And the clear color of the aligners makes them less visible over the smile to a casual observer. The treatment allows for subtlety and privacy that a teenage dental patient will appreciate.
No Dietary Restrictions
Braces feature delicate brackets and wires that could break when you eat certain foods. So orthodontists ask their patients to avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods to prevent the need for emergency repairs.
But dentists request that patients remove Invisalign as they eat. Removable aligners mean that patients can eat what they like without dietary restrictions since the device will not be in the mouth during the meal. Teens will enjoy that extra freedom.
Fewer Disruptive Dental Appointments
Another draw of Invisalign treatment is that it requires fewer in-office dental visits than braces. Braces will need tightening to progress the treatment every few weeks. In many cases, a dentist can provide all necessary aligners for Invisalign treatment at once.
You will still need to see your dentist for check-ups and follow-ups, but these will occur less often than those with braces. Balancing after-school activities, homework, and a social life can mean that teens are incredibly busy. Both kids and their guardians will feel relieved that they do not have to make time to visit the dentist as often with Invisalign.
Plus, Invisalign treatment often takes a shorter amount of time than braces. But treatment length will vary for each patient and their unique needs. Learn what you or your child can expect with Invisalign by scheduling a dental consultation today.