- Suitable: 12 – 18
- Used to Treat: Crooked teeth, gappy teeth, open bites, overbites
- Treatment Time: 6 – 18 months depending on complexity
- Treatments that require extraction of multiple teeth
Teen Invisalign
Invisalign for teens in is a specific version of the Invisalign clear aligner system designed specifically for teenagers. Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment option that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth and correct various dental issues, such as crooked teeth, gappy teeth, overbites, and open bites.
The Invisalign Teen system
The Invisalign Teen system works similarly to the regular Invisalign treatment, but it includes features that are specifically tailored to the needs of teenagers. These features address common concerns and challenges faced by teenagers undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Some features of Invisalign Teen include:
Eruption tabs: Invisalign Teen accommodates the growth of new teeth by including special eruption tabs that hold space for unerupted teeth. This feature allows for more flexibility in treating teenagers who still have some permanent teeth yet to come in.
Replacement aligners: Invisalign Teen recognizes that teenagers are prone to misplacing or losing things. Therefore, it provides up to six replacement aligners at no additional cost. This ensures that treatment can continue smoothly even if an aligner is accidentally damaged or lost.
Mandibular Advancement tabs: This feature incorporates tabs on the sides of the aligners that will force the lower jaw to posture forward. This allows the Invisalign aligners to work similarly to Twin Block functional braces, to correct overbites. They are much easier to wear than Twin Block braces, and for that reason may have higher success rates.
Like the regular Invisalign treatment, Invisalign Teen aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. They offer a more discreet and convenient alternative to traditional metal braces, which can be a significant advantage for teenagers concerned about their appearance during orthodontic treatment.
Treatment length varies depending on the complexity of the orthodontic problem, but treatment is usually a bit quicker than traditional fixed metal or ceramic braces.
While Invisalign teen is a fantastic appliance useful in treating many orthodontic problems, it cannot do everything. In some case your orthodontist may recommend a hybrid approach that combines elements of fixed braces as well as Invisalign. In some case, for example if 4 teeth need to be removed to relieve crowding, Invisalign may not be the best option.
The other important thing to remember when considering whether Invisalign is right for your child is how good you think your child will be at wearing the appliances. Invisalign requires commitment and diligence, so may not be for everyone.
