How Old Does My Child Have To Be To Start Invisalign Treatment?

Invisalign: A Teeth Straightening Option For Kids & Teens

Invisalign is a dental procedure that uses a series of custom-made clear aligners to straighten teeth. This innovative and newer dental procedure is an alternative to conventional braces that is quickly growing in popularity for many reasons. Some people want to avoid the discomfort of metal in their mouth, others seek a teeth straightening solution that is more professional and less visible, and some people want an alternative to braces that doesn’t require dietary restrictions and are easy to clean. One of the most appealing benefits of Invisalign is that it is basically invisible, making it a good option for working professionals or teens who feel self-conscious about their appearance. Invisalign aligners are removable – and must be taken out of the mouth for meals and daily cleaning – so it’s easy to keep the trays and your teeth clean compared to the tediousness of cleaning around conventional braces and wires.

Teen With Straight Teeth Using Invisalign In Glendale, AZ

How Does Invisalign Work?

The process of straightening teeth with Invisalign can take anywhere from a few months to a year, or longer, depending on the severity of the crookedness. In order for the system to work, a patient will need to wear their aligners for 20-22 hours a day, as recommended by their Arrowhead dentist.

At the first appointment, a computer program will utilize images of the patient’s mouth as it is and as the patient wants it to look when the procedure is finished, and will map out a path to get there. A series of clear plastic aligners will be custom made for the patient. Each one is slightly different and will encourage the teeth to move a little further into their new positions. It’s important to wear the aligners in the right order and for as long as your dentist recommends. You’ll receive the next aligners in the series every few weeks.

Many families are interested in Invisalign for their teens and children. However, before you decide to get Invisalign for your child, it’s important to learn more about the system and its recommended age.

At What Age Can Kids Wear Invisalign?

The good news is that Invisalign can be a good option for children in many situations. Children can begin treatment as soon as their permanent adult teeth have emerged. Orthodontic treatment for children under ten who have not yet gained their adult teeth should be done only under the guidance of an experienced dental professional. While most people are familiar with Invisalign for teeth straightening, the process can be administered to preteens and younger teens to help develop the jaw and arches in the mouth so that adult teeth will fit better. Invisalign treatment can also help prevent other common dental issues, such as bite misalignment.

Invisalign For Teens: A Comfortable & Invisible Teeth Straightening Method For Adolescents

The Invisalign system can be very effective for teenagers. It can be administered after the patient’s permanent teeth have grown in. This may be an ideal time for teeth straightening treatment because the permanent teeth have grown in but are not as firmly affixed in the mouth as an adult’s teeth are, making them easier to move in a shorter period of time and with less discomfort. However, before beginning Invisalign treatment, it’s important that a teen has enough discipline to use the aligners correctly so that treatment will be successful. 

In order for the Invisalign system to work, aligners need to be worn for at least 20-22 hours a day. They should only be removed for meals and cleaning. If a teenager is not able to make that commitment, treatment may be unsuccessful. 

Wearing Invisalign In Early Childhood Can Help Treat Conditions Including Overbite, Underbite & Crossbite

Early treatment, called interceptive orthodontics, is a growing field that enables orthodontists to promote growth within the jaw and mouth so that adult teeth will fit better, usually resulting in shorter and easier teeth straightening treatment as the child reaches his teen years. Time sensitive treatment in childhood is customized to the needs of each individual patient.

Invisalign can be beneficial to children and pre-teens by helping to treat a variety of dental conditions including overbite, underbite, crossbite, and crowding in the mouth. In many situations, Invisalign can be a helpful part of creating a perfect smile. However, before beginning Invisalign treatment, it’s important for parents to consider their child’s maturity level and ability to properly care for their aligners and follow the instructions for successful results.

Contact Our Top-Rated Invisalign Dentists In Arrowhead, AZ

If you’re interested in Invisalign for your child or teen, Aesthetic Dentistry of Arrowhead is ready to answer your questions. Our team is the best in the area for cavity fillings, routine cleaning, Invisalign, and cosmetic procedures for the whole family. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment!

 

Dr. Greg Ceyhan of Aesthetic Dentistry of ArrowheadDr. Greg Ceyhan – Aesthetic Dentistry of Arrowhead
17100 N 67th Ave, Suite 500
Glendale, Arizona 85308

Phone: (623) 979-1515
Fax: (623) 878-1811
Office Hours: Monday-Friday: 8am-5pm
Website: https://www.drgregceyhan.com