The perfect natural smile. It stands at the top of “most wanted physical features” for many of us, and for a good reason: confidence and self-esteem are sure to follow every dazzling smile. While some of us are fortunate enough to exhibit such a smile without any sweat, others have to put in the work, at least the 4 million Americans who wear braces at any given time.
Here at Loudoun Orthodontics, we stand by the fact that anyone, regardless of age, should receive orthodontic treatment if need be. Aside from traditional methods such as wearing braces, the orthodontics field has to offer an invisible, more pleasant alternative, in the shape of Invisalign®! With the revolutionary approach certified by Align Technology, you will be on your way towards taking your orthodontic goals to the next level. Once the orthodontic treatment is over, your friends and family will marvel at your perfect, natural smile and recognize the effectiveness of Invisalign®!
What is Invisalign Teen?
What happens when it is not you but your teenage child who seeks orthodontic treatment? Not to worry, we’ve got you covered! Anticipating such a request, Invisalign® came up with a similar orthodontic treatment for teenagers as well and released it on the market under the name of Invisalign® Teen. With this device, your teenage child can enjoy this flexible, aesthetic way towards a perfect, natural smile. However, what is there to know beforehand about this device? Do all teens qualify for Invisalign® Teen? What about prices? Please tune in to our blog for the day and find out!
Who is a Good Fit for Invisalign® Teen Braces?
Once your orthodontist suggests that your teenager could benefit from Invisalign® Teen braces, the next step would be to ensure that your teenage child is ready for such an orthodontic treatment. When it comes to removable braces, you should sit down and think, “Is my child responsible enough to keep and preserve Invisalign® Teen braces?” If not, considering fixed braces might be a healthier solution.
At the same time, teenagers always look for what’s hip and cool on the market, and a 2010 study published in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics is here to prove it. Customizing the braces with colored accessories could constitute the perfect incentive for your teenage child to use Invisalign® Teen braces.
Invisalign Teen vs. Invisalign
Compared to the adult version of Invisalign®, Invisalign® Teen comes with a small addition: a series of blue dots called the blue compliance indicator dots. What is the purpose of these dots, you might ask? Quite straightforward, this system monitors the frequency with which your teenage child uses the invisible braces. As such, with constant use, the blue dots will gradually begin to fade. Furthermore, the way these blue dots fade will indicate to the orthodontist the right time for a new set of Invisalign® Teen braces.
Invisalign® Teen Benefits
The time has come to discuss how Invisalign® Teen will bring wonders to your teenage child’s smile. Compared with traditional metal braces, Invisalign® Teen uses the same strategy – applying pressure to the teeth for superior alignment. However, the two methods are not identical, and Invisalign® Teen has a few aces up its sleeve, which we are more than excited to present to you!
#1: Removability
Brushing and flossing between wires and brackets? Not too appealing, evidently. With Invisalign® Teen, your teenage child will not have to worry about maneuvering around orthodontic appliances, making brushing and flossing easier and more attractive. What does this translate into? Superior oral hygiene for your child!
#2: Self-Confidence
We know that self-confidence is everything amongst teenagers, which is not necessarily a strong suit for those who wear metal wires and brackets. With Invisalign® Teen, your teenage child’s smile will stay clear of curious eyes while boosting their confidence and self-esteem. After all, a teenager who is not self-conscious about their looks is a happy teenager!
#3: Less Irritating
Traditional braces are not always comfortable; on the contrary, because of how the wires and brackets rub against the inside of lips or cheeks, sore spots tend to develop on the inside of the mouth. Invisalign® Teen braces help your teenage child avoid such friction and uncomfortable issues from the start!
#4: Fewer Emergencies
Broken wires and cracked brackets are something we do not need to imagine in order to dread. While the chance of such emergencies is slim, there is no need to put your child’s oral health in jeopardy. As such, with Invisalign® Teen, you can rest assured – you will not have to call your orthodontist and ask for emergency appointments due to device malfunction any time soon!
Invisalign Teen Costs
Although it enjoys so many benefits compared with traditional braces, Invisalign® Teen braces do not differ that much when it comes to prices. On average, Invisalign® Teen costs anywhere from $4,000 to $6,000. However, an orthodontist will provide you with the exact price quote only after a preliminary consultation. Make sure to ask for financing options and consult your insurance plan; as long as your child’s insurance covers teeth straightening with braces, it should include Invisalign® Teen as well!
Schedule your COMPLIMENTARY Consultation!
As a parent, it is only natural to wish the best for your children, and Invisalign® Teen can help them achieve that perfect, natural smile you have always wished for them! If your children are ready for the Invisalign® Teen experience, do not hesitate to schedule a complimentary consultation at Loudoun Orthodontics. In the meantime, make sure to check out our blog for more information on orthodontic treatments!