Posted on January 6, 2021
A lot of parents wonder if Invisalign braces are the right answer for their teen. There are two main methods for getting braces. Metal braces and clear options (one being Invisalign braces). Clear braces can be an excellent option for teens.
Metal braces are often the way to go for kids’ braces because it takes some of the responsibility off the kids. Metal braces are permanently affixed to the teeth, so your child doesn’t need to remember to put them in. On the other hand, clear aligners are trays that the wearer has to take responsibility for. Teens are typically mature enough to manage their part of the deal with Invisalign braces.
Those teenage years can be harsh on a kid. Their bodies are changing, they are more concerned about their appearance, and for the most part, they do not want to “stand out” from the crowd because they wear braces.
About 47% of teens reported they felt a boost to their confidence wearing clear braces, compared to only 22% of traditional brace wearers that reported a boost to their confidence. That is more than double the Invisalign wearers that felt good about themselves in braces.
Invisalign braces offer a “barely noticeable” aesthetic which helps teens to feel more confident in their appearance. Invisalign Pasadena orthodontists have found has the same power as traditional metal braces without the stigma of metal braces during those teen years.
However, it’s not the only option if your teen is concerned about the appearance of braces. Orthodontics LA also offers clear Damon braces, which are less noticeable than metal braces, and offer some benefits as well.
With Invisalign, your teen will have to ensure that they follow the orthodontist’s directions for wearing the Invisalign braces to a tee. Clear aligners have to be removed to eat or drink anything other than water. They have to be cleaned, and like traditional braces, they have to be worn as often as possible for the desired results.
The aligner trays require a bit more attention than metal braces. They have to be stored in their case during mealtime to ensure they are not lost or left out. Of course, while there are more things for your teen to have to do to manage this braces option, there are also benefits. For example, Invisalign braces makes it easier to take care of the teeth since they are removed for brushing and flossing. They are more comfortable, and easier to adjust to.
Ultimately, whether this is the right option for your teen can best be determined by discussing the pros and cons with our trusted Pasadena orthodontist. Contact Orthodontics LA for an orthodontic consultation today.
