Invisalign for Teens
As a mom of a kid, a preteen, and a teen, I have years of orthodontic bills ahead of me. My children did not win the straight teeth lottery. I wore braces and a retainer as a young teen. Even my husband — a late bloomer — just finished orthodontic treatment as an adult.
I must admit to not knowing what Invisaligns were until my husband starting talking about getting braces. He did not want to get traditional braces due to cosmetic reasons. As a 40-something, he did not want to have his orthodontic procedures out there for all to see. I supported his decision, but did not really “get” it. But, he’s an adult so he made the final decision.
When our daughter turned 12, I started the consultation prccess for her with various orthodontists. She needed braces due to overcrowding. None of the orthodontists I spoke to mentioned Invisalign. I assumed that it was not recommended for preteens and teens.
Having observed my husband using Invisaligns over a 3-year period I can say that anyone considering this orthodontic procedure for their teen should think about:
- How responsible is your teen? Does he brush teeth without reminders? Use floss and mouthwash regularly?
- Does teen understand that the Invisaligns need to be worn 24 hours a day except when eating and drinking? My husband gave up caffeinated sodas as he was only allowed to drink clear liquids.
- Does teen realize that a set of invisalign retainers need to be worn for some time after orthodontic treatment is finished?
For more information, go to: Invisalign
I have invisalighn now, with just one months treatment until I’m finished. I had braces at 18 yrs old. Either way they suck, but the reality is that the braces were so much easier bc I sin’t have to be so diligent about it. I’m a wimp when it somes to the pain, and bc I haven’t been as responsible I’ve actually dragged out the treatment for an extra 5-6 months. Ugh, the guilt and money spent makes me wish I’d have just done reg braces. I don’t know if any teen i know would be responsible enough for invisaligns.