Have you ever wished your child’s teeth could magically straighten themselves without the hassle of metal braces? Well, it’s not magic—but it’s close! Invisalign braces are a game-changer for families who want a virtually invisible, hassle-free solution for their kids’ smiles.
At Impact Orthodontics in Calgary, Alberta, we’ve seen how this orthodontic treatment transforms smiles and boosts confidence. But how does Invisalign work, and why should you consider it for your child? Let’s break why Invisalign might be the perfect fit for your family, and what you can expect throughout the treatment process.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear, custom-made aligners to straighten teeth and improve oral health. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are practically invisible, making them a popular choice for those who want a discreet teeth straightening option.
These aligners are designed to correct a range of orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, crooked teeth, and misaligned bites. By gradually shifting your teeth into their proper positions, Invisalign treatment offers a modern, comfortable alternative to traditional metal braces.
How Does Invisalign Work? A Step-by-Step Guide
You’re probably asking yourself, how does Invisalign work exactly? Well, it all starts with a custom-made set of Invisalign clear aligners designed to gradually correct the alignment of your child’s teeth.
Unlike metal braces with fixed wires, Invisalign uses cutting-edge treatment planning software to design a step-by-step path for tooth movement. Each set of aligners gently nudges the teeth closer to their desired position.
Here’s How Invisalign Works:
- Initial Consultation: Your child’s journey to a straighter smile begins with a free consultation at our Calgary office. During this visit, we’ll assess their teeth to determine if Invisalign is the right orthodontic treatment.
- Customized Treatment Plan: Once your child is deemed a good candidate, we use advanced 3D imaging technology to create a personalized treatment plan. This plan maps out how Invisalign will move your child’s teeth over time.
- Receiving the Aligners: The custom-made aligners are created using Invisalign’s innovative clear plastic technology. These aligners are designed to fit snugly over your child’s teeth and are virtually invisible, so they can smile with confidence throughout the process.
- Wearing the Aligners: The treatment involves wearing a new set of aligners approximately every two weeks. These aligners apply gentle pressure to the teeth, encouraging movement. Over time, this will gradually correct alignment issues like crowded teeth or an open bite.
- Routine Check-Ups: You’ll visit us every 6 to 8 weeks to ensure everything is moving according to the plan. Invisalign works because of the consistent pressure applied by the aligners and our close monitoring.
- Final Touches and Retainers: Once the treatment is complete and your child has achieved their dream smile, we’ll provide Vivera retainers to maintain the new alignment. Retainers ensure your child’s teeth stay in their new, straighter position.
Why Invisalign Aligners Are the Preferred Choice for Kids
Choosing the right orthodontic treatment for your child can be a tough decision. How does Invisalign work compared to traditional metal braces, and why do so many moms in SE and SW Calgary prefer it for their kids?
Here’s why Invisalign aligners are a clear winner for families.
Less Discomfort
Traditional metal braces can cause discomfort from brackets and wires poking the inside of the mouth. In contrast, Invisalign’s clear aligners are smooth, custom-made to fit perfectly over your child’s teeth, minimizing irritation. Plus, there are no emergency trips to the dentist for broken wires!
Invisalign aligners are also removable, meaning your child can eat their favourite foods without restrictions. Just remember to brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in!
Improved Confidence
Let’s face it—kids can be self-conscious, especially during their teenage years. Invisalign aligners are practically invisible, so your child can smile with confidence during treatment and look forward to achieving straight teeth. This is a huge advantage over metal braces, which are much more noticeable.
According to a study by the Canadian Association of Orthodontists, nearly 47% of teens who wear Invisalign feel less self-conscious compared to those with traditional braces!
Wearing and Caring for Aligners
Once your child receives their aligners, it’s important they follow their orthodontists instructions carefully. Invisalign works best when the aligners are worn consistently.
Since they’re removable, your child can easily take them out for meals and brushing, but they need to wear them for at least 20-22 hours per day for maximum effectiveness. Skipping days can lengthen the treatment time.
Who is Invisalign Suitable For?
Invisalign is suitable for almost anyone who wants to improve the alignment of their teeth and achieve a confident smile. Typically recommended for individuals with mild to moderate orthodontic issues, such as overcrowding, gaps between teeth, and minor bite problems, Invisalign can also address more difficult cases.
Whether your child has severe overcrowding or significant bite issues, Invisalign treatment can be tailored to meet their specific needs. To determine if Invisalign is right for your child, consult with an experienced orthodontist who can assess their teeth and recommend the best course of treatment.
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
The length of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case and the individual’s teeth. On average, Invisalign treatment can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months to complete. However, some cases may require longer or shorter treatment times.
During the Invisalign process, your child will need to wear a new set of aligners every one to two weeks. Regular visits to the orthodontist will help monitor progress and ensure the treatment is on track. This consistent check-up schedule ensures that the Invisalign process is working effectively and efficiently.
How Does Invisalign Work for Different Dental Issues
Crooked Teeth and Crowding:
- Invisalign gradually corrects the position of crowded teeth by applying gentle pressure with each new set of aligners. This creates space and aligns your child’s teeth without the need for brackets and wires.
Open Bite and Deep Bite:
- An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t meet when the mouth is closed, while a deep bite involves excessive overlap.
Retention and Aftercare of Invisalign
After completing the Invisalign treatment, it’s essential to wear a retainer to maintain the alignment of your child’s teeth. A retainer is a custom-made appliance designed to keep the teeth in their new position. Your child will need to wear the retainer for a specified period, usually several months or years, to ensure that their teeth do not shift back to their original position.
In addition to wearing a retainer, it’s also important to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to maintain the health and appearance of their teeth. This aftercare is crucial to preserving the results of the Invisalign treatment and ensuring a lasting, beautiful smile.
At Impact Orthodontics in Calgary, we’ve seen how Invisalign works wonders for kids, teens and adults, giving them straighter teeth without the discomfort of traditional braces. So, if you’re ready to invest in your child’s smile, schedule a free consultation with our experienced team today.
