Invisalign has become a popular treatment option for straightening teeth and correcting bite issues — some people even say that it is better and more manageable compared to traditional braces.
It’s not surprising that many parents are starting to explore this option to improve the dental health of their children. Our experts from Bay Area Orthodontics are here to answer parents’ and guardians’ most pressing questions about Invisalign for children.
What’s the Difference Between Invisalign and Braces?
While braces and Invisalign both straighten teeth, there are significant differences between them. The most obvious is their appearance; traditional braces are made of very noticeable metal. Invisalign is made of clear plastic, making it a more discreet option.
They also differ in permanence. Invisalign is an aligner, so it can be put on and removed at will. Braces, on the other hand, need to be professionally applied and removed.
Invisalign is typically considered more comfortable than traditional braces, too. Since it doesn’t have brackets or wires, there is no worry about those rubbing against your child’s cheeks or lips and causing sore spots in their mouth.
At What Age Can Your Child Wear Invisalign?
As long as a child has some permanent teeth, it is possible for them to get Invisalign. For some kids, this could be anywhere between the ages of 7 to 14. However, some dental professionals will recommend waiting until all your child’s baby teeth have fallen out, which typically happens by the time that they’re around 12 years old.
Take note that this is a case-to-case basis, which is why it’s important to consult with a dentist or orthodontist to determine whether Invisalign is a viable option for your child’s current situation.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Invisalign for Kids?
Due to its many benefits, Invisalign has become a popular treatment for both adults and kids. Here are some of its advantages:
- It can be removed when necessary. When eating or brushing their teeth, your child would be able to remove their Invisalign aligners. This allows them to live life comfortably, as they normally would.
- It is less noticeable. Since it’s made of clear plastic, Invisalign is not that noticeable. This is important for some children, as they may become self-conscious when they have visible wires or brackets in their mouths.
- You’ll have fewer dental emergencies. Unlike braces, you don’t have to worry about broken wires or brackets necessitating an emergency visit to your kid’s orthodontist.
While Invisalign may seem like a good treatment for your child, there are also disadvantages that you should keep in mind, including:
- It requires discipline and constant surveillance. Using Invisalign requires the discipline to keep it in whenever possible. Since you’re considering this for your child, it’s important to consider how disciplined your child is. If they are not concerned with dental health, you’ll need to constantly check whether they’re actually using their Invisalign.
- It could be lost. Since it’s removable, there’s a possibility that your child could lose their Invisalign while it’s out, or that it could fall out in an accident and be lost.
- It’s less effective for complex issues. Invisalign isn’t as effective as braces for some complex dental issues. This is why it’s important to consult with a trusted dental professional to decide whether Invisalign is the best treatment for your child.
What Can You Expect During a Kids’ Invisalign Treatment?
The only way to determine whether Invisalign will be a great treatment option is by visiting an orthodontic office. That way, an orthodontist can assess your kid’s teeth and create a treatment plan for them.
If the dental professional determines that Invisalign is a viable option, they will take x-rays, photographs, and impressions of your child’s teeth to create an aligner that will fit properly. After a few weeks, your child’s Invisalign aligners will arrive.
Follow the orthodontist’s instructions and make sure that your child is wearing the right Invisalign aligners for about 20 – 22 hours per day. On average, a general Invisalign treatment can last anywhere between 12 – 18 months.
Consult an Orthodontist in the Bay Area
Invisalign can do wonders for kids. However, getting Invisalign isn’t always the best option; it’ll depend on your child’s preferences and unique dental situation.
To see whether Invisalign is a good option for your child, schedule a consultation with us at Bay Area Orthodontics. Our professional and friendly doctors will assess your child’s dental health and determine the best course of action for straightening your child’s teeth.
Reach out through our contact form or call us at (408) 709-7896 to get your child a complimentary consultation.