How to Care for Invisalign® Aligners

Straighten Your Teen’s Teeth Discreetly With Invisalign Teen™

If you’re a teenager or a parent of a teen considering orthodontic treatment, you may be curious about your options. Invisalign Teen has become an increasingly sought-after alternative to traditional metal braces, offering a more discreet and comfortable approach to teeth straightening through an advanced clear aligner system.

**Please note we may not offer this service at our office. This page is for informational purposes. If you would like to inquire about Invisalign Teen services, contact our Georgia dental office at our Smyrna office at 770-433-1515 or our East Point location at 404-766-8559**

What Is Invisalign Teen?

Invisalign Teen is a clear aligner system designed to straighten teeth without the need for traditional metal braces. Invisalign was first introduced by Align Technology in 1998 and has since become a significant player in orthodontics. The Invisalign aligners are made of a clear, smooth plastic material that’s virtually invisible when worn, making them a popular choice for teens who may be self-conscious about their appearance.

How Invisalign Aligners Work

Invisalign aligners are a revolutionary type of clear aligner used in orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth and enhance your smile. These aligners are crafted from a flexible thermoplastic material known as SmartTrack, which is designed to be both comfortable and gentle on your teeth and gums.

The journey to a perfect smile with Invisalign begins with a visit to an Invisalign trained doctor. During this initial consultation, the doctor will create a detailed 3D image of your mouth and jaw using advanced imaging technology. This 3D model is then used to develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. The plan includes a series of clear aligners, each designed to apply gentle pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position.

Each aligner is typically worn for about 1-2 weeks before being replaced with the next one in the series. For the best results, the aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours a day, and can be conveniently removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. The entire treatment process usually spans several months to a year or more, depending on the complexity of your case.

Invisalign for Teens Process

The orthodontic treatment process begins with a consultation with your local Invisalign provider. During this consultation, they’ll evaluate the teen’s teeth and determine if Invisalign is the best treatment option. The Invisalign SmileView tool allows teens to preview their potential new smile by taking a selfie.

If Invisalign Teen is a good fit for their oral health needs, we’ll get started on your treatment plan. The clear removable aligners are created using 3D computer imaging technology that maps out the complete treatment plan, from the initial position of the teeth to the final desired position. This allows patients to see their treatment plan and the anticipated results even before starting their orthodontic journey.

The clear aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours per day. However, they should be removed for eating, drinking (anything but water), and brushing and flossing your teeth.

What Does Invisalign Teen Correct?

Depending on the severity of the orthodontic issue, Invisalign for teens can correct the following:

  • Tooth Crowding: This is when there isn’t enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit normally. Invisalign can gently move teeth into proper alignment to reduce crowding.
  • Tooth Gaps: If there are gaps between teeth due to missing teeth or just simply too much space within the jaw, Invisalign can help close these spaces.
  • Overbite: This is when the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth. This is often due to genetics, bad oral habits, or overdevelopment of the bone that supports the teeth.
  • Underbite: This occurs when the lower teeth protrude past the front teeth. It’s usually caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw, or both. It can also be caused by missing upper teeth.
  • Crossbite: When the upper and lower jaws are both misaligned, it causes one or more upper teeth to bite on the inside of the lower teeth, on either the front and/or the sides of the mouth. 
  • Open Bite: This occurs when some teeth are unable to make physical contact with the opposing teeth for a proper bite.

Effectiveness and Results

Invisalign aligners have proven to be highly effective in addressing a variety of orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. These aligners work harmoniously with your natural teeth and gums, making them suitable for both adults and teenagers.

Research and clinical studies have demonstrated that Invisalign aligners can be just as effective as traditional braces in treating mild to moderate orthodontic problems. In some cases, Invisalign has even outperformed traditional braces, particularly in correcting issues related to tooth alignment and spacing.

The success of Invisalign aligners largely depends on several factors, including the complexity of your orthodontic issues, the quality of the aligners, and your commitment to wearing them as prescribed. With diligent care and adherence to the treatment plan, Invisalign aligners can help you achieve a beautiful, straight smile that you’ll be proud to show off.

Pros vs. Cons of Invisalign Teen

As with any treatment option, Invisalign for teens has its pros and cons. 

Pros

  • Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for teens who may be self-conscious about their appearance.
  • The Invisalign trays are removable, making it easier to eat, brush, and floss compared to traditional braces.
  • Treatment time may be shorter than with traditional braces.
  • Invisalign aligners have no metal brackets or wires, meaning less discomfort and irritation.

Cons

  • The clear aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours per day, which can be a challenge for some teens.
  • Not all orthodontic issues can be corrected with Invisalign Teen.
  • Invisalign clear aligners may be more expensive than traditional braces.

Cost and Payment Options

The cost of Invisalign treatment can vary based on the complexity of your case, the location of your Invisalign doctor, and the duration of your treatment. On average, the cost of Invisalign treatment ranges from $3,000 to $5,000 or more.

To make Invisalign treatment more accessible, many Invisalign doctors offer flexible financing plans that allow you to spread the cost over several months or years. Additionally, some insurance plans may cover part or all of the cost of Invisalign treatment, so it’s worth checking with your provider.

You can also use Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA) to pay for Invisalign treatment. These accounts enable you to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses, including orthodontic treatment, making it a more affordable option.

Caring for Clear Aligners

Proper care and maintenance of clear aligners are crucial to the success of the treatment. It’s also necessary to ensure good oral hygiene. Here are some key care tips for your clear aligners:

  • Cleaning the Aligners: The aligners should be cleaned every day to remove bacteria and prevent discoloration. Rinse them under lukewarm (never hot) water, and use a soft toothbrush with clear, gentle soap. Avoid colored or scented soaps, which could discolor the aligners. Invisalign also sells cleaning systems specifically designed for their aligners.
  • Storing the Aligners: When the aligners aren’t in use, they should be stored in the provided case to prevent damage or misplacement. It’s advised never to wrap the aligners in a napkin during meals, as they can be accidentally thrown away.
  • Handling the Aligners: Aligners should be removed and replaced using steady, gentle force. Biting them into place may damage them. If the aligners are tight or difficult to remove, it can help to start from the molars and gently work toward the front of the mouth.
  • Scheduled Changes: It’s crucial to follow the orthodontist’s plan for changing the aligners. Typically, this is every 1 to 2 weeks. Wearing each set of aligners for the appropriate amount of time ensures the teeth move at the proper pace.
  • Regular Check-Ups: Regular visits to the orthodontist (usually every 4 to 6 weeks) are necessary to monitor progress and ensure that the treatment is on track. These appointments also provide an opportunity to raise any concerns or issues.

Maintaining Your New Smile

After completing your Invisalign treatment, maintaining your new smile is crucial to ensure that your teeth remain straight and healthy. This typically involves wearing a retainer, a custom-made appliance designed to hold your teeth in their new position.

Invisalign offers a variety of retainers, including Vivera retainers, which are custom-made and 30% stronger than other retainers. These retainers are designed to be worn at night and can help keep your teeth straight and healthy for years to come.

In addition to wearing a retainer, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for routine check-ups. By following these tips, you can maintain your new smile and keep your teeth healthy and straight for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

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