Invisalign® for Teens
Traditional metal braces, while very effective at straightening teeth, can cause soreness and discomfort. Invisalign® Teen uses clear aligner trays to correct crooked teeth. This is less strenuous than brackets and wires of metal braces that an orthodontist will tighten every few weeks. These trays are customizable for every patient. This allows them to be flush and comfortable. The orthodontist will change the trays every two weeks to allow the teeth to gradually shift into place.
What Can I Expect From Invisalign Teen®?
Instead of having metal braces tightened by Ricci every few weeks, patients will receive a new set of Invisalign Teen® aligners every 10 to 14 days. Each new set of trays will apply a little more pressure to the teeth as they slowly shift from their original position. During the treatment period, patients should plan on having the trays in their mouth for at least 22 hours a day. Luckily, the trays can be taken out at any time to brush, floss, and eat all of one’s favorite food. Teenage patients no longer need to worry about damaging their brackets when eating certain foods or cutting their lips on metal wires while playing sports.
Is Invisalign Teen® Right for Me?
Invisalign Teen® is a great option for anyone that would like to quickly, effectively, and discreetly straighten their teeth. These aligners can help patients fix issues such as:
- Bite pattern problems
- Gaps between teeth
- Protruding teeth
- Crooked teeth
- An overcrowded smile
Is Invisalign® as Effective as Traditional Braces?
Patients that carefully follow the instructions given to them by Dr. Steven Ricci will be glad to find out that Invisalign® aligners are just as effective as traditional metal braces for most common teeth-straightening issues. Invisalign® can be used to treat moderate to severe cases of overcrowding, underbites, overbites, and gaps between the teeth. Most teens that are unhappy with their smile will make excellent candidates for this treatment program.
What Are Some of The Practical Advantages of Invisalign® Teen Over Traditional Braces?
Anyone that has ever had to wear metal braces already understands just how uncomfortable and unsightly they can be. With Invisalign® aligners, active teens that play sports will not have to worry about cutting their gums or damaging their braces after being hit in the face by a ball. Teens that play instruments, such as the flute, will not have wires or brackets getting in their way during practices or concerts. Patients will also enjoy many of the foods that would have damaged metal braces, such as apples, raw carrots, and popcorn. When it comes time to brush and floss, the trays can quickly be taken out to clean one’s teeth.
Are There Any Emotional Concerns to Consider?
Studies continue to show us that many parents underestimate just how big of an impact crooked teeth can have on a teen’s confidence. Using Invisalign® Teen to correct your child’s smile will allow them to avoid overwhelming anxiety and continue building their confidence.
Who Is Eligible for Invisalign® Teen?
A large percentage of teenagers suffer from “erupting” or erupted permanent dentition. In most cases, aligners will treat these issues. All patients must meet with Dr. Steven Ricci, a trained Invisalign® orthodontist, to determine their candidacy. Patients who are rejected as candidates will most likely want to seek a second opinion, as every provider has a different level of experience with Invisalign® aligners.
Does My Teen Have to Wear Invisalign® All The Time?
Even though you can remove the aligners at any time, your teen should wear the trays for at least 20 to 22 hours a day. Wearing the aligners for less than 20 hours a day could affect the final results. Each tray has a blue indicator that will fade over time. This can help Dr. Steven Ricci to track how long the individual is wearing the aligners.
What Happens If I Lose an Aligner?
Accidents can happen at any time, and you will be glad to hear that Invisalign® Teen offers up to six free replacement trays per patient. Anyone that has lost a tray should contact our orthodontist immediately to have it replaced. Leaving the trays out for even just a few days could affect the treatment plan.
How Often Will I Be Visiting the Orthodontist?
On average, patients who choose Invisalign® Teen will spend much less time with Dr. Steven Ricci than those who choose regular braces. Instead of the ongoing repairs and adjustments necessary with braces, patients will schedule just one quick appointment with him every 6 – 12 weeks.
Ricci Orthodontics
The Ricci Orthodontics team is ready to help parents, teens, and children decide which orthodontic treatment is best for them. To learn more about our orthodontic services, reach out to our team today. Contact Ricci Orthodontics today at (678) 263-8695, or contact us online to begin with Invisalign® Teen. We are excited to work with you!