Weighing the Pros and Cons of Invisalign for Your Child

The time has come, and your child’s orthodontist has recommended treatment to straighten their teeth. But what if there is an alternative to bulky metal braces? While you’ve probably already heard of Invisalign for teens and adults, did you know it could be a suitable option for your child? While this clear aligner system has become increasingly popular among parents and kids alike, you should weigh the pros and cons of Invisalign to make an informed decision on whether it’s the right choice for your child’s needs and lifestyle.

Our orthodontic team brings specialized training and decades of experience to help children achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Hardy understand choosing the most appropriate orthodontic treatment for your child is a crucial decision that factors in their habits, comfort, and specific dental needs. Our practice is devoted to providing personalized care and using the most up-to-date advancements in orthodontic technology to ensure the best possible outcomes for your child.

Is Invisalign The Right Choice for Your Child?

The American Association of Orthodontics estimates that 50% to 70% of children will likely need orthodontic treatment before adulthood. With many options on the market to treat orthodontic issues, many parents are drawn to Invisalign because of its discreet appearance and convenience. This is because Invisalign uses a series of removable, clear aligner trays to move your child’s teeth into proper alignment. Here are some reasons why it might be the ideal choice for your child:

Visually Pleasing

One of the primary advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are virtually invisible. Unlike metal braces, they don’t stand out in school pictures or social settings. Because of this, Invisalign can be a significant confidence booster for kids and teens who face peer scrutiny every day. 

Comfort

Conventional braces can cause discomfort because of bulky brackets and wires that rub against the inside of your mouth. Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic, making them more comfortable and less likely to cause irritation. However, with any orthodontic treatment, your child will likely experience minor discomfort with each new tray as their teeth gradually shift. 

Easy to Maintain

Because Invisalign is a removable aligner, there are no restrictions on what your child can eat. They can remove their aligner before meals and eat their favorite foods without damaging their braces. 

Better Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing effectively can be challenging with metal braces. This can often result in an increased risk of cavities and plaque buildup. Because Invisalign aligners can be removed, kids can maintain their usual brushing and flossing habits without issue.

Fewer Orthodontic Appointments

While regular check-ups are required to monitor your child’s progress, Invisalign typically needs fewer in-office appointments than traditional braces. This makes it a convenient option for busy families. 

Overall, Invisalign offers a comfortable, discreet, and convenient way for children to achieve a straighter smile with fewer disruptions to their daily routine. If you’re considering Invisalign for your child, please contact us to schedule an appointment. 

What Are the Potential Drawbacks of Invisalign for Kids?

While Invisalign offers many advantages for people of all ages, it may not be the ideal solution for every child. Here are some factors you should consider before deciding if Invisalign is the best orthodontic treatment option for your child:

Responsibility

Invisalign requires a high level of personal commitment to achieve the best results possible. The clear aligner trays should be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours daily. This means your child needs to remember to put them back in after eating and brushing. Unfortunately, younger children may struggle with this consistency. 

Risk of Lost Aligners

Because Invisalign aligners are removable, there is a risk that your child will misplace or lose them, especially while at school. If your child tends to forget things or frequently misplaces their belongings, you may find yourself replacing their aligners more often than you would like.

Not Suitable for All Cases

Invisalign is typically used to treat mild to moderate alignment issues. If your child suffers from more severe orthodontic problems, they may need traditional braces to correct their alignment issues.  

Initial Discomfort With New Trays

Some children will experience mild discomfort and pressure when switching to a new set of aligners. However, this discomfort should subside within a few days.

Cost

Invisalign tends to be more expensive than braces, and not all dental insurance plans will cover it for your child’s orthodontic treatment. Before deciding, you should speak with your provider about the costs of Invisalign compared to traditional braces and if it is covered under your dental insurance benefits. 

A trusted orthodontist can be a wealth of knowledge and guidance in helping you weigh the pros and cons of Invisalign for your child and decide if it is the best option for their dental needs. If you have any questions about Invisalign and if it’s the ideal fit for your child, please contact us to schedule a consultation. 

Choose Expert Orthodontic Care for Your Child with Dr. Hardy

Dr. Hardy and both spent 2-3 additional years training in specialized orthodontic and pediatrics programs so they could offer you the best science and technology can give you. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond their education as they dedicate 100% of their practice time to orthodontic and pediatric needs and pursue continuing education to stay ahead of the latest advancements. Choosing the right orthodontic treatment for your child is a significant decision, and we’re here to help guide you through all available options.

Whether Invisalign is right for your child or another orthodontic solution would better serve their needs, our team is ready to provide patient-centered care in a comfortable, child-friendly environment. We invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced orthodontic team to discuss your child’s unique needs and create a treatment plan that works for your family. Contact us today to take the first step toward your child’s healthy, beautiful smile.