Are Invisalign Braces Right for Your Kids?
Posted on May 17, 2021
Invisalign braces have over a 96% satisfaction rate for patients. This brings about the question, should you get Invisalign braces for your kids? Are they the perfect braces for teens? It could mean that your kids are never called “brace face” or “metal mouth” as a snarky comment.
Today, metal braces are not the only option for straightening teeth for kids or adults. Nearly 4.3 million orthodontic patients aged 17 and younger have been treated with Invisalign since 2016. Many parents more than likely had metal braces, so it is natural that you may be skeptical about the revolutionary orthodontic treatment, Invisalign. Below are just a few of the benefits that come with choosing Invisalign braces.
Invisalign Braces Are Just as Effective as Traditional Metal Braces
When it comes to braces for straight teeth, Invisalign is just as effective as metal braces. Most adults, teens, and children are perfect candidates for this type of treatment. Clear braces are used to treat all common orthodontic problems. They are perfect for the following cases ranging from severe to mild:
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Misaligned Teeth
- Gaps Between Teeth
- Overcrowded Teeth
Invisalign Is Extremely Convenient
Clear aligners are removable making them extremely convenient. Your kids can take them out to brush their teeth and eat. It is important to note that children do need to wear them 20 to 22 hours per day. This leaves a little wiggle room which is important for kids, especially teens.
They can remove their aligners when they need to, which is suitable for adolescents in sports and band. Clear braces won’t be interrupting their normal routine. They also won’t have to skip eating tasty treats such as popcorn. However, the most important factor for most kids tends to be the pain level. Invisalign isn’t nearly as painful or uncomfortable as metal braces.
Cleaning Invisalign Braces Is Simple
Parents can relax knowing that Invisalign braces are a breeze to clean. Traditional metal braces are difficult to clean and take a lot of care when it comes to brushing and flossing between brackets and being extremely careful not to pop a bracket. Clear aligners can be easily removed while your kids brush and floss their teeth.
Cleaning the liners themselves only takes lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush. There is no need to use toothpaste since it is too abrasive and could scratch them. If you don’t trust your kids to follow this routine, Invisalign offers their own cleaning system, as well.
There Is No Need to Visit the Orthodontist as Often
Kids, and teens especially, lead busier lives than ever. Some teens may even have jobs. That means you are also busy taking them back and forth.
Invisalign braces do not require patients to spend as much time in an orthodontist’s office. Wires have to be adjusted or changed regularly, at least once or twice a month when wearing metal braces. Invisalign braces don’t require such frequent visits. You still need to visit the orthodontist but the aligners can be changed at home.
Clear Braces Decrease the Risk of Cavities
A positive point for Invisalign braces is the fact that your kids have less of a chance of developing cavities than they would with traditional braces. Metal braces require the use of new implements for cleaning that take more time focusing on hygiene. Traditional braces also present a greater risk for cavities since food can easily become trapped and plaque can build up in areas that are hard to brush.
Removable clear aligners make it much easier to eat and brush teeth. Other than cleaning the aligners, there’s no need to change their normal oral hygiene routine. This is a great stress relief for both parents and kids.
Schedule a Consultation
Find out if Invisalign is right for you and your kids. Schedule a consultation to be evaluated. Friendly and caring orthodontists are ready to discuss flexible payment and insurance coverage options as well.
