Invisalign for Teens: Is Your Teen Ready for Clear Aligners?

Summer break is a popular time to start orthodontic treatment, and many parents ask whether clear aligners like Invisalign are an option for their teenager. For many teens they're a great choice: nearly invisible, removable for meals and sports, and easier to keep clean than braces. But aligners come with a responsibility that braces don't. Here's how to decide.

How clear aligners work

Aligners are a series of clear, custom-made trays that gradually move teeth into position. Each set is worn for one to two weeks before moving to the next. Treatment starts with a digital scan of your teen's teeth, which is used to plan the movement step by step. We use iTero digital scanning, so there are no goopy impressions.

Why teens like them

• Nearly invisible. Many teens are self-conscious about braces in photos and at school.
• Removable. Aligners come out for meals, so there are no food restrictions, and for special occasions.
• Easier hygiene. Teens can brush and floss normally, without working around brackets.
• Fewer emergencies. No broken brackets or poking wires.
• Sports and music. Aligners can be removed for contact sports, with a mouthguard worn instead, and many wind-instrument players adjust to them easily.

The big question: will your teen wear them?

Aligners only work when they're in the mouth, ideally 20 to 22 hours a day. That means taking them out only to eat, drink anything other than plain water, and brush. A teen who frequently forgets them, loses them or leaves them out for hours will see slow or incomplete results.

Signs your teen is likely to do well:

• They're motivated about straightening their teeth themselves, not just because a parent wants it.
• They're generally responsible with routines, like taking medication or managing homework.
• They'll commit to brushing before putting aligners back in.
• They're comfortable carrying a case and keeping track of it.

Many teen aligners include wear indicators that fade with use, which helps everyone see how consistently they're being worn.

Is your teen's case a good fit?

Clear aligners work well for many teen alignment problems, including crowding, spacing and many bite issues. Some complex cases, such as significant jaw discrepancies, large rotations or teeth that haven't fully come in yet, may be better treated with traditional braces or by an orthodontist. Dr. Kour will evaluate your teen's teeth and bite and tell you honestly whether aligners are a good fit, or whether a referral would serve them better.

For a full comparison, see our post on Invisalign vs. traditional braces.

Cost and coverage

Many dental plans with orthodontic coverage apply the same benefit to aligners as to braces. We'll verify your benefits before you commit and explain financing options, such as CareCredit and Cherry. Our guide to Invisalign and clear aligner costs in Fairfax explains what affects the price.

Tips for success

• Keep a case in every backpack and sports bag.
• Brush teeth before putting aligners back in, so food and sugar aren't trapped against the teeth.
• Drink only water while wearing aligners.
• Set phone reminders for putting them back in after meals.
• Wear retainers as directed after treatment, so teeth don't drift back.

Start with a consultation

A consultation will tell you whether aligners are right for your teen and what treatment would involve. Learn more about clear aligners at our office, then request an appointment online or call Zen Family Dental at (703) 385-2772.