Deciding If Your Teen Should Get Braces or Invisalign

There are a number of reasons why teenagers may need orthodontic work. Their mouths are still growing and their teeth may not have come in correctly. They may have had an injury that has affected their teeth or jaws. And, as we all know, teenagers can be hard on their teeth!

Orthodontic treatment can help to correct problems with the bite, alignment, and spacing of the teeth. It can also improve the overall appearance of the smile. There are a number of options available, and the orthodontist will work with the patient to determine the best course of treatment. In most cases, orthodontic treatment is successful in achieving the desired results, and the patient is left with a beautiful, healthy smile.

It’s often the decision-making process between traditional braces and modern Invisalign that teens, parents, and professionals have to contend with. Let’s go over the situations which would make your teen a more suitable candidate for braces or more qualified for Invisalign. 

Defining Braces

Braces are devices used to align and straighten teeth and help to position them with regards to a person’s bite, while also aiming to improve dental health. Braces can be made from metal, ceramic, or plastic. They are bonded to the teeth using dental adhesive and are connected by wires in order to exert the necessary force. 

Braces work by slowly moving teeth in a specific direction over time and are usually worn for around two years, although this varies depending on the individual. The braces are then fitted, and regular adjustments are made in order to continue moving the teeth into the desired position. Although it takes some time to get used to wearing braces, most people find that the results are worth the effort in the long run. 

When Braces Are the Answer

Dental braces are often seen as a sign of adolescence, and many teenagers feel self-conscious about wearing them. However, braces can actually be beneficial for both oral health and self-esteem over time. 

Braces can help to correct more severe dental problems such as serious overcrowding, misaligned teeth, over or under bites and so much more. While it may take some time to get used to wearing braces, the result is often worth the effort. As braces are undeniably the most powerful and capable orthodontic procedure and are an absolute necessity to correct imperfect smiles.

Defining Invisalign

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible, making them a popular choice for teens who are looking to improve their smile without drawing attention to their orthodontic treatment.

Invisalign aligners are also removable, so they can be taken out for eating and brushing. And because they are custom-made for each patient, they are comfortable to wear, ultimately providing the teen with an unparalleled sense of flexibility. If you are considering Invisalign treatment, talk to your orthodontist to see if it is right for you.

When Invisalign is the Answer

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment for teenagers that offers many benefits over traditional braces. First, Invisalign requires a high level of responsibility from the patient. To achieve optimal results, the aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours per day and taken out only to eat, brush, and floss. So, if you’re confident your teen is capable enough of handling such a demanding lifestyle, Invisalign might be the best route.

This can be a challenge for some teenagers, but it also gives them a sense of ownership over their own treatment. Second, Invisalign allows for more freedom than braces. There are no food restrictions, and the aligners can be removed for special occasions such as photos, sporting events, or even a first date.

Finally, Invisalign is more effective at treating lesser malocclusions than braces is, showing to correct minor misalignments in a quicker amount of time. This makes it an ideal option for teenagers who want to achieve a straighter smile without undergoing extensive orthodontic treatment.

The Cost Comparisons

Many parents worry about the cost of paying for their teen’s orthodontic treatment. braces and Invisalign are both popular options, but which one is more expensive? In general, braces tend to be more expensive than Invisalign. 

This is because braces require special materials and equipment, and the treatment process is usually longer. However, the exact cost of braces or Invisalign will vary depending on the individual case. Some insurance plans may cover part of the cost, so it’s important to check with your insurer to see what coverage is available. 

Ultimately, the best way to determine which option is right for your family is to consult with an experienced dental professional. They can assess your teen’s individual needs and help you make the best decision for their smile – and your budget.