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In the past, if your adolescent child needed braces, there was only one choice—metal brackets and rubber bands to gradually move teeth into the proper position. Today, though, there are other choices for teens, including Invisalign aligner trays.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses plastic trays to shift your teeth into the proper position. You might work with an orthodontist or a cosmetic dentist for your treatment. The trays are custom made, and each one is shaped slightly differently, moving the teeth a small distance. You wear each tray for about two weeks, then switch to the next one in the sequence.

After the final tray, your teeth will be in proper alignment. You’ll wear a retainer to keep them from moving back out of the correct position. Invisalign is much more comfortable than traditional braces, and can help your teen get the treatment he or she needs without the necessity of a “metal mouth.” If your teen suffers a lack of self-confidence at the thought of metal braces, Invisalign might be a good alternative.

Is Invisalign as Effective as Traditional Braces?

Invisalign can correct many of the alignment issues addressed by traditional braces. These include:

• Overbite—the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth
• Underbite—the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth
• Crossbite—a combination where the upper teeth can overlap on one side and the lower teeth overlap on the other
• Crowded teeth
• Gaps between the teeth

Some issues, such as open bite—when the teeth do not meet—can be treated with Invisalign but require a slightly different approach involving composite attachments to ensure the teeth move properly. Severe misalignment of any kind might require additional preparatory work or the addition of brackets or other appliances to achieve the best possible results.

If alignment issues are particularly complex, traditional braces might prove more effective, simpler, and even less costly. The best way to determine if Invisalign is the best option for your teen is to consult with an orthodontist or cosmetic dentist.

Contact our team today to discuss your teen’s smile options!