Although approximately one-fourth of orthodontic patients are adults, most
people who get their teeth straightened are younger. While traditional braces
are usually the treatment of choice for teens, there are other options as
well. For example, your adolescent may be a candidate for Invisalign in Hoboken. There is
even a special type of Invisalign that is designed especially for young
people! Let’s talk about how this remarkable treatment may help your
child achieve the healthy smile they deserve.
Why Is Invisalign a Good Option for Teens?
Just like traditional braces, Invisalign in Hoboken applies gentle pressure
to the teeth in order to move them into their proper positions. The two
treatments can correct many of the same dental alignment issues, including
overbite, underbite, crossbite, gapped teeth, rotated teeth, and more.
However, because traditional orthodontics involves the use of metal brackets
and wires, many image-conscious teens balk at the idea of using them.
Invisalign is ideal for these people because it uses clear plastic aligners
to move the teeth. Although the aligners are not completely invisible, they
are much less noticeable than traditional orthodontics.
Invisalign vs. Invisalign for Teens — What’s the Difference?
Regular Invisalign treatment and Invisalign for teens are similar in many
ways. However, there are a few key differences:
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Compliance monitoring. In order for Invisalign to
succeed, patients must wear their aligners 20 – 22 hours each day.
This can understandably be a challenge for teens, so their aligners have a
small blue compliance dot that helps parents and their dental team monitor
how well they adhere to the treatment. Adult aligners do not have the dot.
-
Replacement aligners. Even the most responsible teens
have their “oops” moments. Invisalign for teens includes a few
free replacement aligners in case one gets lost or severely damaged. Adult
Invisalign patients typically have to pay for each replacement aligner.
Benefits of Invisalign for Teens
Other than its subtle appearance, some of the biggest benefits of Invisalign
for teens include:
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Removability. Your teen can take their aligners out during sports practice and games and
wear their mouthguard instead.
-
No dietary restrictions. Your teen can continue to enjoy
all of their favorite treats, including things that are off-limits with
regular braces. They will just need to remove their aligners before they
eat, and after they finish, they should clean their teeth and rinse their
aligners before putting them back in.
-
Easy oral hygiene. Your teen will be able to brush and
floss their teeth without navigating around a bunch of brackets and wires.
This lowers their risk of cavities and other oral health problems.
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Comfort. Invisalign aligners are made out of a patented plastic material that is
engineered for comfort and precise tooth movements.
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Fewer dental visits. Invisalign checkups with your
dentist in Hoboken take place every 6 – 8 weeks or so, and they
usually last for just a few minutes. Your teen will miss as little school
as possible for their appointments.
Are you ready to learn more about Invisalign for teens? Our team is ready to
serve you. Get in touch today to ask questions or
schedule an appointment.