7 Things Parents Need to Know About Invisalign® for Teens Downey, CA

Invisalign Treatments Usually Take Less Than Two Years

Invisalign corrects most orthodontic problems within 12-18 months. Many patients notice significant improvement within the first six months of treatment. However, each patient’s treatment plans will vary. Severe dental issues may take longer to resolve.

Consistent use of the aligners is essential. Patients should keep their aligners in place at least 22 hours per day. Aligners can be removed during meals, oral hygiene, and special events. For optimal results, patients must wear their aligners as often as possible.

Time-Saving Benefits

Orthodontic care can involve a significant time commitment. Traditional braces often require monthly or bi-monthly appointments with an orthodontist. These appointments can be lengthy. The orthodontist must tighten wires, replace elastics, and take measurements.

Invisalign requires less time in the dentist's chair. Without the upkeep required by wires and elastics, appointments are less frequent. Many providers schedule Invisalign appointments six weeks apart and offer aligners several weeks in advance. Patients can change their aligners at home without setting foot in the office.

Invisalign Is Fully Removable

Invisalign is designed to be removable. Many teens are delighted to learn they can take out their aligners for school formals, sports, and pictures.

School Formals

Clunky braces or orthodontic appliances can be embarrassing during school events. With Invisalign, teens can remove their clear aligners for a few hours. Since the aligners are nearly invisible, some patients may not mind wearing their aligners to special events.

Sports

Metal braces can cause mouth lacerations. If your teen gets hit while playing sports, they might experience bleeding or oral teas. Their braces may become damaged, too. Playing sports while wearing braces can be risky and may lead to complex repairs. With Invisalign, your child can remove their aligners before physical activities. Taking out the aligners helps prevent injury and damage to orthodontic appliances.

Pictures

Many teens prize the ability to remove their aligners while in front of a camera. With traditional braces, teens may feel too embarrassed to smile for pictures. With removable clear aligners, teens have the confidence to enjoy photos and videos.

While the aligners are removable, frequent use helps speed up treatment and ensures results. The more often your teen wears their aligners, the better. Patients should aim to wear their aligners 20-22 hours per day. Most orthodontists recommend removing aligners only for meals, oral hygiene, and occasional special events.

Invisalign Requires Some Care and Upkeep

Proper dental hygiene is essential during Invisalign treatment. The aligners can sometimes trap food particles against teeth and gums. Teens must take extra care with their oral hygiene.

Helping Your Teen Care for Their Aligners

Patients should thoroughly brush their aligners at least once a day. Our dental team can recommend specialized products to keep the trays fresh and clean. Check with the office before trying out a new product. Some oral hygiene products may damage the aligners.

Teens should avoid eating while the trays are in place. It is fine to sip water throughout the day, but teens should remove their aligners before drinking anything else. Hot beverages like coffee can warp or stain the aligners. Teens should also keep their aligners safely stored since setting aligners on a plate or napkin while eating can lead to lost or damaged aligners. Avoid exposing the aligners to extreme heat or cold, and keep the aligners secure in a purse, backpack, or bathroom cupboard.

The Benefits of Proper Upkeep

Invisalign can produce a brighter smile, but sloppy oral hygiene or careless habits can undermine treatment results. Keeping up with treatment recommendations pays off. Teens who follow up with their orthodontist’s recommendations enjoy straighter teeth and improved oral health. If your teen does not take care of their aligners or wear them daily, they may not see results.

Invisalign requires a high level of responsibility, and some teens may not be good candidates for this treatment. If your child struggles to keep up with daily chores and tasks, they might do better with traditional braces. Parents should consider whether their child is mature and responsible enough to be in charge of their own orthodontic care.