Could Invisalign be Right for My Child?

Long Beach, CA – Orthodontists recommend seeing patients as early as age seven, as outlined by the American Association of Orthodontists. While most patients won’t require treatment then, there are more treatment options than ever for patients when they are ready.

Invisalign has continued to grow in popularity, and the technology is so advanced that most patients can be treated effectively with aligners. Invisalign has poured millions of dollars into research and development to improve their product, enabling orthodontists to treat adolescents, teens and even very complex cases. But is it the best idea for younger patients?

First, let’s take a look at what Invisalign is. 

Invisalign treatment uses a series of clear, plastic aligners that guide the teeth to their new locations. Each set of aligners moves the teeth in small increments and is worn for 22 hours a day for 10-14 days before moving to the next set in the series. The aligners must be removed when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. 

So, could Invisalign be a good fit for your child? 

The answer is not black and white because every child is different. Invisalign is one of the treatment options that requires the highest degree of patient compliance to be effective. Your child has to remember to wear the aligners full time and switch them out as directed by their orthodontist. So if your child is forgetful or has a habit of losing things, Invisalign may not be a good choice. 

Invisalign is removable, which is a huge advantage for many people. You don’t have to alter your diet or spend extra time flossing and brushing around brackets and wires. You’ll simply remove the aligners before these activities and replace the aligners back in your mouth afterward.

If you believe your child is ready for Invisalign, there are many advantages to this type of treatment. 

• Fewer visits to the orthodontist – Invisalign requires no adjustment appointments, so checkups will be fewer and shorter in duration.
• Invisalign causes less discomfort – With no metal brackets or wires, your child can have a more comfortable orthodontic experience.
• Invisalign is discrete – Your child can straighten their smile discretely, without worrying about having the metal show.
• No dietary restrictions—since the aligners are removed to eat, your child can eat whatever he/she wants without worrying about broken brackets or wires. 
• Great for sports—Since there is no metal braces or wires present, if your child gets hit in the face with a ball, the inside of the lips and cheeks will sustain less injury.
• Ability to maintain oral hygiene 
• Invisalign costs are similar to that of metal braces.

If your child is seven or older and has not had a consultation with an orthodontist, it’s time to schedule one today. Dr. Desh can discuss the treatment options available to your child and go over the advantages and disadvantages. When your child is ready, the HD Orthodontics team will be with them every step of the way.