smile blog

For multiple generations of teens, awkward, uncomfortable metal braces have been a rite of passage. Now, today’s teens have a new option for straightening teeth and achieving that perfect smile: Invisalign Teen. Invisalign Teen is the virtually invisible way to straighten teeth without the restrictions and embarrassment typically associated with metal braces. Rather than wires and brackets, Invisalign Teen uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gently shift your teen’s tooth placement. Depending on your teen’s needs, Invisalign is just as effective as braces– and doesn’t include the pain or stigma typically associated with them.Is Invisalign Teen better than braces? Here’s what you need to know:

Invisalign Teen can be just as effective as braces.

Just like Invisalign for adults, Invisalign Teen is an effective option for common teeth straightening needs, including treating a mild to moderate cases of underbites, overbites, overcrowding and spacing gaps between teeth. For more severe cases, traditional braces may be a better option. Your child’s orthodontist should be able to discuss the benefits of both Invisalign and traditional braces when creating a treatment plan. If you are not sure about the best option for your teen, Docbraces offers free second opinion consultations.

Invisalign costs the same as traditional braces.

Invisalign Teen costs approximately the same amount as traditional braces. In fact, many parents are surprised to learn that geographic location and treatment complexity are two of the greatest variables for orthodontic treatment– not the treatment option itself! Some dental insurance plans may also provide coverage for Invisalign in addition to traditional orthodontic treatment options like braces. At Docbraces, our orthodontists are committed to ensuring that orthodontic care is affordable for all families. Our flexible monthly payment plans are available for Invisalign Teen. These plans don’t require a credit check and are fee-free as long as you make your regularly, monthly payments.

Invisalign can be removed for easy cleaning and eating.

One of the most embarrassing aspects of having braces is getting food stuck in your teeth! Unfortunately, teens are often not great at oral hygiene habits and having braces may further complicate any attempts to brush or floss teeth. No teen wants to be made fun of at school for having food stuck in their braces. With Invisalign Teen, you can avoid both of these issues. Your teen won’t need to worry about the awkward, social embarrassment associated with eating lunch while having braces. Your teen can discreetly remove Invisalign aligners prior to eating and return these aligners after the meal is complete. As a parent, you can also rest assured that your teen will be able to keep up with good oral hygiene habits. Simply remove the aligners at night for easy brushing and flossing.

Invisalign has a built in “check” to ensure your teen is wearing the aligners.

For Invisalign Teen to be effective, the aligners need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day and changed every two weeks. As a parent, it’s natural to worry that your teen may forget to wear the aligners after removing them for a meal, or even intentionally removing the aligners at school to avoid embarrassment. Invisalign Teen comes with an insurance check so parents and orthodontists can be sure the teen is following treatment guidelines. The aligners have a discreet blue indicator that will fade over time when used as directed. You and your child’s orthodontist can check the blue indicator to track compliance. Should an aligner get lost, Invisalign Teen offers six replacement aligners for free.Invisalign Teen takes roughly the same time as traditional braces and costs approximately the same, too. If your child needs orthodontic care but is resistant to the idea of metal braces, Invisalign Teen may be a better option for your teen’s orthodontic needs. Learn more about orthodontic treatment options for teens: download our FREE guide to Invisalign for Teens.