Orthodontic treatment is important for every age, but the best time to begin is at age 7 according to most orthodontists. While the treatment itself may not begin at this time, an early visit can help your orthodontist spot any potentially developing problems that will need to be addressed. Often known as phase one treatment, an orthodontist will observe the stage of development, the developing problem, and the options available to fix it.
While many people associate Invisalign aligners with older teens and adults who tend to be more self-conscious about wearing metal braces, younger children can be good candidates for this method of teeth straightening too. Because Invisalign aligners are designed to produce predictable results custom fit to the patient’s mouth, they are uniquely suited for the needs of growing children.
Invisalign can be a good choice for younger children, and there are some significant benefits that it can provide. The most significant include:
- Invisalign aligners can easily be removed when eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. This means that kids will have an easier time adjusting to their treatment than with traditional metal braces that require more care. While aligners still need to be rinsed and cleaned, you won’t have to worry about restricting foods or investing in special cleaning devices.
- Aligners can also be removed if your child plays sports, allowing them to play without the need for an uncomfortable mouthguard. This helps ensure that kids can continue the hobbies they enjoy without needing additional support to protect their braces.
- Invisalign can also help prevent anxiety over appearance, which some young children can experience. They can continue smiling at school without everyone knowing they’re undergoing teeth straightening treatment. This can help improve their confidence and keep them smiling throughout treatment and beyond.
- Invisalign aligners are also much more comfortable to wear than traditional metal braces. Kids also won’t have to worry about getting painful adjustments or tightening procedures. While there is some initial discomfort while your mouth adjusts to the aligner, it is a far cry from the discomfort that metal braces can cause.