Many teenagers need orthodontic treatment to correct an overbite, reduce crowding in the mouth, or realign teeth. Invisalign is a modern alternative to the braces that dentists have traditionally used to straighten teeth. People getting treatment with Invisalign wear transparent, removable plastic aligners to gradually bring their teeth into the correct positions. Invisalign has many advantages, but is it the best solution for your teenage son or daughter?
Invisalign Is Almost Invisible
Many teenagers prefer Invisalign to braces because the aligners are not as obvious as the brackets and wires that make up a set of traditional braces. In a world where bullies sometimes cruelly target their classmates for looking different, looking good has become an important priority for many teens.
Invisalign Is Often More Comfortable
Traditional braces should be comfortable, but it is common for wires to move out of place and scratch against the wearer's tongue, gums, or cheeks. Pain associated with braces can make it difficult for some teens to eat, which is a real problem at a time in their life when they need energy to grow. Orthodontists can adjust the braces, but it takes time to get an appointment. Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic, so are unlikely to cause the same discomfort.
Traditional Braces Can Be More Affordable — But Not Always
Invisalign is rarely available on insurance, which means that many Australian families see it as an expensive option for straightening a smile. However, many teens are already seeing private orthodontists rather than using a public service. In such cases, the costs of Invisalign and wire braces can be more similar than you might expect.
Invisalign Makes Oral Hygiene Easier
If you are always having to nag your teen to brush their teeth properly and remember to floss, then you might want to think twice about them getting traditional braces. Cleaning around wire braces requires a lot of patience. String floss often doesn't fit between the brackets, so wearers need to use tools such as floss picks or a floss threader to complete their cleaning routine. On the other hand, with Invisalign your teen can simply take the aligners out to clean them. Keeping teeth clean during orthodontic treatment is very important to reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities, so do not overlook this important factor when deciding which treatment option is best for your teenage daughter or son.
To learn more, contact a dentist in your area.
Share5 March 2021
I have worked as a school nurse for decades. Children come to me with all sorts of scrapes and bumps and bruises. Black eyes from playing football, sprained wrists from falling off the monkey bars and stomachaches from too many sweets are common complaints. However, the issue that seems to cause the greatest angst is tooth problems. Sometimes a child will have a second tooth knocked out when playing sport and parents arrive in tears. At other times, children come to my office crying because their friends are teasing them about teeth that are discoloured or stick out. I take an active interest in the latest dental news so that I can give parents and children comfort and advice. I have included some of my collected wisdom on these pages. Perhaps this information can help you understand some options when faced with a dental problem. Thank you for reading.