Why Teens Are Opting for Invisalign

If your teen needs braces, they may be dreading the thought of having a mouthful of metal. But, traditional metal braces aren’t the only option. In many cases, Invisalign® can be a great alternative.

Invisalign is a system that uses a series of clear plastic aligners to shift the positions of your teeth. Many people prefer it because the aligners are virtually invisible and they can be removed to eat and drink.

However, it’s not the best option for everyone. In this blog, Joseph Yousefian, DMD, of Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults explains why many teens prefer Invisalign and how to know if it’s the right option for your teen.

How does Invisalign work?

First, Dr. Yousefian makes a 3-D scan of your mouth. Then the scan is sent to the Invisalign lab where your aligners are made. Each set is slightly adjusted to move your teeth little by little.

When you get your aligners, you wear one set and then replace it with the next set in the series every two weeks or so. And when you take out the last set, you have the smile of your dreams.

During treatment, you need to wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day, although you can take them out all day for special occasions. 

Why do teens prefer Invisalign?

Traditional braces have a number of downsides. They’re very noticeable, and they can be uncomfortable to wear. They also have brackets and wires, which can come loose. Furthermore, if you wear metal braces, you have to avoid certain foods, such as sticky candy and popcorn. Braces can also make it difficult to clean your teeth.

By contrast, Invisalign aligners are only visible up close. And, you can eat whatever you want, because Invisalign aligners are removable. Furthermore, you can brush and floss like normal, so you won’t have to worry about food getting trapped around your brackets.

Who may not be a good candidate for Invisalign?

While Invisalign is certainly an attractive option for straightening teeth, it’s not appropriate for everyone. If you have cavities, they will need to be fixed before beginning Invisalign treatment.

And, while TMJ disorders and dental implants tend to be less common in teens, these are still conditions that can disqualify someone from Invisalign treatment. Furthermore, if your teeth are on the smaller side or are misshapen, you also may not be a good candidate for Invisalign.

Perhaps the biggest factor in determining whether you’re a good candidate for Invisalign is your commitment to wearing the aligners. Because the aligners are removable, the treatment won’t be effective if you don’t wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day. Wearing them less than this may make the treatment take longer.

To learn more about Invisalign and to see if this system can help you or your teen, book an appointment online or over the phone with Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults today.