Invisalign is a fairly new form of orthodontic treatment that uses clear, plastic aligners to move the teeth and jaw. It has typically been marketed for teens and adults because of its inconspicuous look, but now Invisalign is also an option for children! Invisalign First is a treatment plan specifically designed for children who are still growing and may have baby teeth that have yet to fall out. This system can be used as a phase one treatment to prevent certain orthodontic issues before they develop into more serious problems. Phase one treatments typically start anywhere from age 6 to 10, and prime the mouth for better results or faster treatment during phase two which occurs around age 10 to 14. Before Invisalign First, metal expanders and braces were used to achieve the same results. Though both systems work efficiently, Invisalign First is a great alternative to braces because the aligners are more comfortable and require fewer lifestyle adjustments compared to braces.
Is My Child a Candidate for Invisalign First Clear Aligners?
Invisalign First is able to correct a range of issues including crowding, spacing, underbites, overbites, and narrow dental arches. To be certain that Invisalign First is a good option for your child, feel free to book a free consultation with Efros Orthodontics. During this appointment, one of our team members will perform an oral examination and take digital impressions to determine if Invisalign First is right for your child. You will have plenty of time to ask questions and discuss options with one of our treatment coordinators if Dr. Efros believes your child needs phase one treatment.
What Is the Process Like?
Invisalign for kids is very similar to the process for adults. Children should be wearing their aligners at virtually all times, only taking them out to eat or clean the teeth. Every few weeks, a new set of aligners will be provided for your child to wear. Each aligner will make a small incremental change, moving the process along towards the desired result.
Life With Invisalign
Invisalign is a great, non-invasive way to fix a whole host of orthodontic problems. Your child can continue to eat anything they want as long as they remove their aligner while eating and make sure to brush their teeth before putting it back in. They can also continue living an exciting, active lifestyle playing outside or participating in sports, but make sure to get a mouthguard to protect the teeth especially for contact sports like football or lacrosse.
Invisalign vs. Braces
Invisalign First and braces both works to produce the same results, it is simply the journey to this final endpoint that differs between the two. Invisalign First is a great option for kids because it means that they (and you as a parent) do not have to make as many lifestyle changes. As many parents know, kids need routines to give their life structure. In some cases, braces can throw a loop in everyday routines, making Invisalign an easier adjustment for the whole family.
Additionally, Invisalign is much more comfortable than braces because the aligners do not rub against the inner gums like the brackets of braces do. The aligners are also invisible to others, so shy children that may not want the attention garnered by braces can feel calmer while undergoing treatment.
What Do I Do If My Child Loses Their Aligners?
First and foremost is do not panic! This happens all the time with children as well as adults, and it is not the end of the world (or your child’s orthodontic progress). If your child cannot find their aligners, you can either have them wear their most recent aligner or switch to the next upcoming aligner. If your child had only been wearing their new aligner for a few days, we recommend just wearing the old one until a replacement can be made by your orthodontist. Alternatively, if your child was only days away from switching to a new aligner, they can likely make the change now and forget about requesting a replacement.
If you think your child is in need of orthodontic attention, or you are interested in Invisalign First treatment, please contact Efros Orthodontics to set up a complimentary consultation. Our practice is well-versed both in Invisalign and making children feel comfortable with treatment. Dr. Efros is a diamond provider of Invisalign, meaning he is in the top 1% of providers in the country, but more importantly he loves to goof off and joke around with our patients. Getting your child the orthodontic care that they need does not have to be a nightmare, in fact, we guarantee to make it fun at Efros!
