What to Know About Invisalign® Teen

How Do Clear Aligners for Teens Work?

Invisalign Teen uses a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually shift teeth into place. These aligners are custom-made using advanced 3D imaging technology to ensure a precise fit. Your teen will switch to a new set of aligners approximately every one to two weeks, allowing for a comfortable and efficient treatment process.

Does Invisalign Hurt?

Most teens experience some mild discomfort when they switch to a new set of aligners, as their teeth are adjusting to the movement. However, Invisalign Teen is generally less painful than traditional braces, as there are no brackets or wires that can cause irritation. Any soreness usually subsides within a few days.

Will Aligners Restrict My Teen’s Diet?

Nope. One of the biggest benefits of Invisalign Teen is that the aligners are removable. Unlike braces, which come with food restrictions, your teen can take out their aligners and enjoy all their favorite foods. Just make sure they brush their teeth before putting the aligners back in to prevent staining and plaque buildup.

Do Clear Aligners Affect Speech?

Some teens experience a slight lisp when they first start wearing aligners, but this typically goes away after a few days as they adjust to speaking with them. Most patients find that their speech returns to normal quickly.

How Will I Know If My Teen Is Wearing Their Aligners?

Invisalign Teen aligners come with blue compliance indicators that fade over time with consistent wear. These indicators help parents and our orthodontist ensure that the aligners are being worn as recommended. Skipping wear time can lead to longer treatment periods or less effective results.

What If My Teen Breaks or Loses an Aligner?

Life happens! If an aligner gets lost or broken, contact our Invisalign orthodontist as soon as possible. Depending on the situation, your teen may need to wear the previous aligner or move on to the next set slightly early. It’s always a good idea to keep orthodontic aligners in their case when not in use to prevent accidental loss or damage.

Does Invisalign Work as Well as Braces?

Yes, for most cases! Invisalign Teen is designed to treat mild to moderate orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, and bite problems. However, some complex cases may still require traditional braces. During a consultation, our orthodontist will determine if Invisalign is the best option for your teen.

Is Invisalign a Similar Cost to Braces?

The cost of Invisalign Teen is generally comparable to traditional braces. Many dental insurance plans cover Invisalign treatment just as they would for metal braces, and flexible payment plans are often available.