Invisalign For Teens — Parental Considerations and Guidance
Invisalign is gaining popularity in North Carolina, particularly among teens, because of its discreet nature. But, as a parent, it gets a little complex, and a few considerations need to be taken into account.
Guidance is necessary if Invisalign is actually the proper treatment for the misalignment problem and if it is worth considering over traditional braces. Rockingham, NC family dentist can help to determine if Invisalign serves the purpose.
Let us consider some necessary factors and provide guidance to make sure the teen gets a successful orthodontic experience.
Parental Considerations
- Commitment to Wearing Aligners
To attain success with Invisalign, a teen needs to wear aligners for about 20 to 22 hours every day. Assessment of the maturity and commitment level of the teen is pretty essential to know if it is the right treatment plan in particular.
- Cost
Invisalign and other modern alternatives are more expensive than traditional braces, which makes it pretty essential to proceed while keeping in mind the budgeting and insurance coverage factors.
- Oral Hygiene Habits
Maintaining good oral hygiene is a must for teens because the aligners are removable, but it makes it extremely important to make sure there is no build-up of bacteria and bad breath. The teen needs to keep the aligners clean and follow a proper oral care routine after removing the aligners.
- Lost Aligners
Teens can be clumsy and a little irresponsible at times, which increases the probability of losing the aligners. While replacements are definitely there, they add up to the total cost of the treatment, which is unnecessary and could be avoided with a bit of emphasis on care.
Guidance for Parents
- Consultation with an Orthodontist
Invisalign is not recommended to treat severe orthodontic problems; it deals with only milder ones, which makes consultation with an orthodontist pretty essential to make sure Invisalign will be able to serve the specific needs of the teen.
- Educate your teen
Make sure your teen understands the importance of using aligners as prescribed. Let the teen know of the potential consequences if a person fails to comply with the treatment plan, which results in a more extended treatment period and minimizes the effectiveness, too.
- Set Up a Routine
Assist your teen with the establishment of a proper oral care routine that includes brushing and flossing, along with care and maintenance for the aligners.
Need of an Orthodontist to Monitor Progress
Invisalign is a much more convenient treatment for misaligned teeth compared to its counterparts, which means fewer visits to orthodontists. However, those “fewer” visits are vital to monitor the treatment progression and make adjustments according to the needs from time to time to get the best possible results.
