Invisalign® isn’t just reserved for adults. In fact, we often help correct uneven smiles in the teen years with these clear aligners. Our younger patients often prefer this option, as it doesn’t alter their appearance while improving alignment. In today’s blog, your Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist discusses treating smiles in the teenage years with Invisalign®.
Correcting Smiles in the Teen Years
In the teenage years, a smile has nearly finished growing and developing. All baby teeth are gone, and the factors that further alter alignment, such as the growth and development of the jaw and oral structures, have almost stopped. Which means this is the stage we usually begin the final phase of treatment if the patient started care in childhood. This is also the time we can start braces or aligners to correct smiles. If you have a teen that needs treatment for misalignment, schedule a visit for him or her so we can examine the smile with advanced technology. We will then decide on the best course of treatment.
The Invisalign® Process
The Invisalign® procedure doesn’t use metal wires or brackets at all! Instead, the patient will wear a set of clear plastic aligners, which shift the teeth comfortably and in a shorter time span. The aligners will be custom-fitted for precise treatment, and will be nearly invisible when worn. A set is worn every day for about 20 to 22 hours on average. At this point, the patient will wear the next set in the series. This process is repeated for about a year to 18 months, depending on the extent of misalignment and whether they’re worn properly. The aligners will have blue dots on them that wear away if they’re being worn properly, so you and your orthodontist can monitor the progress.
Long-Term Benefits
The braces can be removed before meals, and brushing and flossing the teeth is easier too, which means during treatment your child can maintain better oral health. A straighter smile itself will reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and help reduce the likelihood of jaw joint disorders like TMD or bruxism (teeth grinding). Over all, your child enjoys better oral health and a more attractive smile, which can be a source of confidence.
If you have any questions about the clear braces system, or if you would like to schedule a consultation to see if this is right for you or your child, then please contact our team today.
DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT INVISALIGN®?
Our team is ready to address minor and more advanced cases of misalignment without using metal braces. To learn how we use clear aligners to improve young smiles, then please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. Our office proudly serves patients who live in Springtown, Rome, and all surrounding communities.
