Attention moms and dads, are you considering Invisalign for your child? If so,you probably already know that Invisalign® is the virtually invisible way to straighten teeth without metal braces. But I’m often asked for more information about Invisalign® Teen, specifically.
The Basics
So, here’s the scoop, instead of the traditional wires and brackets you might be thinking of, Invisalign® Teen uses a series of clear, removable aligners. These aren’t one-size-fits-all, but custom-made just for your teen’s teeth; a result of precise 3D images I take with the sophisticated iTero Element Scanner. Your teen then pops these aligners over their teeth like a glove, and every couple of weeks or so – they switch them out for a new set. Little by little, your teen’s teeth gradually shift into place.
Those are the basics – now, let’s dig into the top five questions I usually field about Invisalign Teen. I hope you find the answers helpful!
1. INVISALIGN TEEN CAN BE AS EFFECTIVE AS TRADITIONAL BRACES.
When worn according to the customized plan I set in place, Invisalign Teen can be as effective as traditional braces. In fact, the chances are very high your teen will be a candidate for Invisalign as it can treat many of the common issues we see. Click below to schedule a complimentary consultation to find out for sure.
2. THERE ARE PRACTICAL BENEFITS OF INVISALIGN TEEN COMPARED TO CONVENTIONAL BRACES.
With Invisalign, the aligners are removable, so your teen can play sports, musical instruments and eat their favorite foods without the worry that braces will get in the way. Plus, it’s much easier to brush and floss normally to maintain proper oral hygiene.
3. THIS INVISIBLE SOLUTION CAN BOOST CONFIDENCE.
Research shows that parents underestimate the extent to which teens feel self-conscious about their smile—and their appearance in general. Wearing braces can often make this lack of confidence even worse. Invisalign Teen removes a potential source of anxiety, giving them more confidence during what can be a challenging time in their lives.
4. YOUR TEEN NEEDS TO WEAR THE ALIGNERS MOST OF THE DAY.
Invisalign Teen is most effective when worn 20 to 22 hours per day and changed approximately every two weeks. In fact, Invisalign Teen aligners have blue indicators that fade over time when used as directed so I can track compliance.
5. YOU & YOUR TEEN WILL SPEND LESS TIME AT MY OFFICE THAN WITH TRADITIONAL BRACES.
Invisalign Teen often requires less time with your orthodontist than traditional braces do. There are no adjustments to make, no brackets to re-glue and no broken wires to fix. After the initial appointment, follow-up appointments are usually scheduled every four to six weeks.
About Hughes Orthodontics
Since you’ve read this far, a little about me and Hughes Orthodontics: I’ve practiced here with my dad, Dr. Herbert M. Hughes, for the past 7 years – Dad’s been here for 37! Even cooler. I’m a 3rd generation orthodontist and 4th generation dentist. This family owned practice has been around since 1958, creating beautiful smiles and providing excellent care to patients in Alexandria – we’re really proud to have served this community for over 6 decades!
Together with our team, Hughes Orthodontics provide state of the art care so our patients can achieve lifelong smile confidence!
– Justin Hughes
We hope you’ll give us a shot! Please contact us at (703) 360-8660 or click below to schedule your complimentary consultation.
