Welcome to Jaeger Orthodontics in Coeur d’Alene, ID, where we prioritize the oral health and happiness for smiles of all ages! If you’re considering orthodontic treatment options for your teen, you might have come across Invisalign as a modern alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign is an innovative and discreet orthodontic treatment that utilizes a series of clear, custom-made aligners to straighten teeth without the need for fixed orthodontic appliances.
What is Invisalign and How Does it Work?
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, ensuring a more comfortable experience for your teen. These aligners are virtually invisible, making them an appealing choice for teenagers who may feel self-conscious about wearing traditional metal braces. As an added bonus, teens can keep their teeth healthier and cleaner during treatment because their aligners are removable. The treatment process begins with a detailed digital scan of your teen’s teeth, which serves as the foundation for creating a personalized treatment plan and digitally mapping out their treatment.
At What Age Can a Teenager Get Invisalign Treatment?
Invisalign is designed to address a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. The treatment is often suitable for most teenagers who have a full set of permanent teeth. That being said, teens need to be committed to wearing their aligners as prescribed—including the minimum number of hours a day and knowing when to change them out—in order for your family’s investment to be successful.
Teens and their parents should know that every individual’s smile needs are unique. To find out which type of braces or Invisalign is best for your teen, start with an orthodontic evaluation.
During your teen’s consultation, the team at Jaeger Orthodontics will conduct a comprehensive examination of your teen’s smile and oral anatomy. Some scans and digital images will also be recorded. Based on this information, we can determine if Invisalign is a suitable option or if traditional braces may be more appropriate.
How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Usually Take for Teenagers?
One of the common questions parents ask is about the duration of Invisalign treatment for their teenagers. The treatment length can vary depending on the complexity of your teen’s bite and what needs to be corrected. On average, Invisalign treatment for teenagers typically takes around 12 to 18 months from start to finish.
In order to work correctly, your teen will need to wear their aligner for a prescribed 1 to 2 weeks, then change it out with the next set in the series. It’s essential to remind your teen about the importance of wearing their aligners consistently and for the recommended 20 to 22 hours per day. Compliance with the treatment plan will contribute significantly to its success and timely completion.
How Often Should Teenagers Wear Their Invisalign Aligners?
Invisalign aligners are designed to be removable, providing flexibility and convenience for your teen’s busy lifestyle. But they still need to wear them for a minimum of 20-22 hours a day to achieve desired results within the estimated treatment time.
Our Coeur d’Alene orthodontist recommends that teenagers wear their Invisalign aligners for the majority of the day and night. The aligners should only be removed during meals and when brushing and flossing their teeth. It’s crucial to remind your teen to keep their aligners in a protective case during these moments to avoid loss or damage.
Additionally, regular check-ups with our orthodontic team will be scheduled to monitor your teen’s progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. These appointments also provide an opportunity for your teenager to address any questions or concerns they may have about their Invisalign journey.
Schedule Your Teen’s Visit Today
At Jaeger Orthodontics, we understand the importance of making informed decisions about your teenager’s orthodontic care. To find out if Invisalign is the right choice for your teen’s orthodontic treatment, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our skilled Coeur d’Alene orthodontist today.