Is it time for your teen to consider straightening their teeth? Our family dentists are experienced and knowledgeable in a wide range of cosmetic dentistry services for kids, including Invisalign.
Traditional metal braces have long been a staple of the teenage years, and for good reason. Straightening your teeth as a child can have many oral health benefits.
Benefits of Straightened Teeth:
- Healthier gums
- Greater ease in brushing and flossing
- Lowered risk of tooth injury
- Increased self-esteem and quality of life
- Improved chewing function
- Less wear and tear on enamel
Invisalign vs Traditional Braces
However, despite their many benefits, traditional braces do have significant drawbacks. In addition to their obvious and glaring presence, they can also cause mouth sores and discomfort.
The good news? Advancements in cosmetic dentistry now mean that there are alternatives, including Invisalign, which offer a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing method of straightening your teen’s teeth.
Want to know if Invisalign is the right option for your teen?
4 Questions Every Parent Has About Invisalign For Teens
Invisalign is a great way for your teen to get the straight and beautiful smile they’ve always wanted without the hassle and pain of traditional metal braces. However, as a parent, it is natural to have some questions about this treatment option.
Before you talk to your family dentist, here are some of the most common questions parents have about Invisalign for their teens:
1. WHAT IS INVISALIGN?
Invisalign is an innovative cosmetic dentistry treatment that uses a custom-made series of clear and comfortable aligners that teenagers wear over their teeth. Every two weeks, you receive a new set of aligners as your teeth gradually shift into place.
2. WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR INVISALIGN?
While only your family dentist can really determine whether or not your teen is a good Invisalign candidate, they may be suitable if they:
- Have a mild orthodontic case
- Are very disciplined and responsible
- Understand the importance of wearing the aligners EVERY DAY
- Have healthy gums and teeth
- If they are older teens, since Invisalign works better with fully-developed jaws
3. ARE THERE ANY DIET RESTRICTIONS WITH INVISALIGN?
Metal braces are not only uncomfortable, but they also come with a number of diet restrictions, including no:
- Hard foods (eg. raw vegetables, nuts, pizza crusts)
- Tough meats
- Sticky foods (eg. candy)
- Ice
Unfortunately, it’s very difficult to determine whether or not your teen is actually following those restrictions and many times, brackets or wires will have to be replaced.
With Invisalign, on the other hand, there are NO DIETARY RESTRICTIONS. Because your teen can remove the aligners from his/her mouth when it’s time for meals, they can eat whatever they like.
Orthodontic Treatment Comparison
4. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF INVISALIGN OVER TRADITIONAL BRACES?
There are a number of reasons why Invisalign may be a better alternative than traditional braces for some patients.
Invisalign's Benefits:
- It is easy to brush and floss your teeth like normal
- Clear aligners are more aesthetically pleasing
- Invisalign can be fully customized for faster, more effective results
- Consults allow you track your progress and see how long your treatment will take
- Aligners are more comfortable to wear than traditional braces
Call Today
To find out more about whether or not Invisalign is the right orthodontic treatment for your teen, contact our Calgary family dentists today at 403-248-2066 or fill in our online contact form.
