Clear Braces for Teens
Dr. McIntosh of McIntosh Orthodontics is proud to be a Diamond Provider of Invisalign for the Orlando area. Find out if this may be the right option for your teen below.
Invisalign Teen is an orthodontic option that makes braces easy on adolescents (and their parents!). Invisalign is a clear, removable type of braces that involves using a series of custom-made "aligners" that are worn like a retainer.
Teenagers are busy, which makes their parents busy too! Traditional braces typically involve routine check-ups for adjustments more frequently, but with Invisalign Teen, you will be making fewer trips to and from the orthodontist. Every two weeks, your teen will switch out the old aligner for a new one. Each aligner is built using 3D technology that outlines the entire treatment process. Over time, your teen's teeth will gradually begin to move into the desired position, just like standard metal braces.
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Benefits of Invisalign Teen
Invisalign is an optimal treatment for teens with an array of orthodontic problems. It is used to correct crooked teeth, overbites, bad spacing, and more.
Some benefits of using Invisalign Teen include:
- Appearance — aligners appear virtually invisible
- Effectiveness — Invisalign has been proven to be just as effective as traditional metal braces
- A healthy mouth — metal braces are difficult to brush and floss, whereas Invisalign can be removed and cleaned
- No fuss — teens can eat and drink what they like without the worry of particles getting stuck in their braces, and they can play sports and musical instruments without stressing about their braces
Orthodontic Issues Invisalign Can Correct
Invisalign can address a wide range of orthodontic concerns while offering a more discreet alternative to traditional braces. Using a series of custom-made clear aligners, Invisalign gradually moves teeth into healthier positions and improves overall bite alignment.
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps and spacing between teeth
- Overbite and underbite
- Crossbite and open bite
- Mildly to moderately misaligned teeth
How Invisalign Teen Works
Invisalign Teen follows the same proven clear aligner process as standard Invisalign, with a few features specifically designed for teenage patients.
Custom Aligners Built with 3D Technology
Each set of aligners is precision-crafted using advanced 3D imaging technology that maps out the entire treatment process from start to finish. Your teen and your family will know exactly what to expect at every stage.
Compliance Indicators
Invisalign Teen aligners include small blue compliance dots that fade with wear. This makes it easy for parents and Dr. McIntosh to confirm that aligners are being worn for the recommended 20 to 22 hours per day.
Replacement Aligners
Teenagers lose things. Invisalign Teen includes replacement aligners in the event that one is lost or damaged, giving parents added peace of mind throughout treatment.
Fewer Office Visits With Invisalign Teen
You will make fewer trips to and from the orthodontist compared to traditional braces, which require more frequent adjustment appointments. This makes treatment easier to manage around school, extracurricular activities, and family schedules.
Is My Teen Eligible for Invisalign?
While many teens experience issues related to their teeth, gums, or jaw, not all conditions can be treated using Invisalign. It is typically used to address common teeth-straightening issues and misaligned bites.
The criteria used to determine if Invisalign is a good fit for an adolescent are typically based on the amount of orthodontic work needed. The only way to determine this is by making an appointment with a trained Invisalign orthodontist.
Visit our scheduling page to set up a free consultation to find out if your teen is eligible for Invisalign. They'll thank you for it later with a beautiful, effortless smile!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How is Invisalign Teen different from regular Invisalign?
Invisalign Teen is specifically designed for adolescent patients. It includes compliance indicator dots to help parents and Dr. McIntosh confirm proper wear, as well as replacement aligners in case one is lost or damaged. Otherwise, the treatment process and technology are the same as standard Invisalign.
How long does my teen need to wear their aligners each day?
Invisalign Teen aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours per day for treatment to progress on schedule. They should only be removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing and flossing.
Can my teen play sports with Invisalign?
Yes. One of the advantages of Invisalign Teen is that the aligners can be removed during contact sports if needed, and there are no wires or brackets to cause injury. Dr. McIntosh may still recommend a mouthguard during contact sports regardless of which treatment your teen is using.
What happens if my teen loses an aligner?
Invisalign Teen includes replacement aligners for situations where one is lost or damaged. Contact our Maitland or Winter Park office as soon as possible so we can arrange a replacement and minimize any disruption to your teen's treatment progress.
How long does Invisalign Teen treatment take?
Treatment length depends on the complexity of your teen's orthodontic needs. Most teens complete Invisalign treatment within 12 to 18 months, though more involved cases may take longer. Dr. McIntosh will provide a personalized estimate during the consultation.
How do I know if Invisalign Teen is the right choice for my teenager?
The only way to determine whether Invisalign Teen is appropriate for your teen is with an orthodontic evaluation. Visit our scheduling page to set up a consultation with Dr. McIntosh at our Maitland or Winter Park office.