Braces can be beneficial for teens who want straighter smiles, but the noticeable metal appliances can also detract from the patient’s smile throughout treatment, usually for at least a year and sometimes longer. With Invisalign Teen, the patient’s smile continues to shine through, and patients are able to begin to enjoy their treatment results much sooner.
The Invisalign system straightens the smile using a progressive series of clear, plastic trays to apply forces to the teeth and bone. Because the smile is not obscured by brackets and wires, patients can actually see their results as they develop.
Patients who choose Invisalign may notice their smiles starting to become straighter in just a few months, although these initial changes do tend to be quite subtle. The final desired outcomes will not be achieved until the entire treatment timeline is complete.
In order to get the maximum benefits from Invisalign Teen, the patient must follow the orthodontist’s guidelines for wearing the appliances and switching the trays according to the schedule provided.
You should consult closely with your orthodontist to learn what you can reasonably expect from Invisalign treatment and to make sure you understand the instructions needed for the system.
While the trays can be removed for eating and oral hygiene purposes, the patient must wear them for 20-22 hours each day so that they have an opportunity to do their work. Additionally, the patient must be certain to swap to a new tray every two weeks or so.
In exchange for this increased responsibility, the patient gets more convenience and a more attractive smile during treatment, as well as after. It’s easier to keep the smile clean with routine brushing and flossing, and Invisalign patients also have fewer dietary restrictions due to the appliances themselves.
If you have a teenager who doesn’t want to have to spend months in braces waiting to see his or her straighter smile, contact San Antonio Orthodontics at 210-970-7638 to learn more about Invisalign and whether it might benefit your child.