Invisalign® for Teens: What Parents Should Know
Our Invisalign® dentists in Grandville, MI, offer as an alternative to traditional metal braces. Over time, Invisalign for teens has gained popularity due to its discreet appearance, ease of use, and ability to address a wide range of dental issues.
If you are a parent considering Invisalign for your teen, here are some key things you should know.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear aligners that fit over your teen’s teeth to gently shift them into proper alignment. Your teen will wear each set of aligners for approximately two weeks before switching to the next set in the series.
The total number of aligners required will depend on the extent of your teen’s dental issues, but most patients can expect to wear their aligners for 12 to 18 months.
Benefits of Invisalign for Teens
One of the main is the discreet appearance of the aligners. Unlike traditional braces, which use metal brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, which can be a huge advantage for self-conscious teens.
Invisalign aligners are also removable, which means your teen can take them out when eating, brushing, and flossing. This makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and enjoy their favorite foods without restrictions.
Invisalign aligners are designed for comfort. Unlike traditional braces, which can irritate the cheeks and lips, Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic that won’t scratch or poke your teen’s mouth. This can make it easier for your teen to adjust to the treatment and avoid discomfort.
Invisalign treatment is effective in treating a wide range of dental issues, including crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. This means that if your teen has any of these issues, Invisalign may be a viable alternative to traditional braces.
What to Expect During Treatment
If you decide to pursue Invisalign for your teen, the first step will be to consult with one of our Invisalign dentists. During the consultation, they’ll evaluate your teen’s dental health and determine whether Invisalign is the right treatment option. If Invisalign is recommended, they’ll take digital impressions of your teen’s teeth to create a custom treatment plan.
Related: Am I a Candidate for Invisalign Treatment? →
Once the aligners are ready, your teen will begin wearing them. It is important to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours a day, only removing them when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. Your teen may experience some mild discomfort during the first few days of wearing each new set of Invisalign clear aligners, but this should subside quickly.
Throughout the treatment, your teen will need to visit our office regularly for check-ups and to receive the next set of aligners in the series. We’ll monitor your teen’s progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Caring for Invisalign Aligners
To keep the Invisalign aligners clean and clear, your teen will need to rinse them with water every time they remove them. Your teen should also brush the aligners with a soft toothbrush and mild soap once a day to remove any buildup or bacteria.
Additionally, your teen should store the aligners in their case when not wearing them to avoid losing or damaging them.
Request an Invisalign Consultation
Are you ready to take the next step? Our Invisalign dentists in Grandville, MI, are accepting new patients and would be more than happy to help improve the appearance, health, and function of your child’s smile. To schedule an Invisalign consultation for your teen, please call 44 West Dental Professionals at (616) 530-2200. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.