Smile quality is an important quality to almost every American, but only around 35% of people have straight teeth heading into adulthood. Braces used to be a rite of passage for adolescents, but more and more adults are waiting to get their own orthodontic work done later in life. Childhood is hard enough without the hindrance of traditional metal braces. Fortunately, Invisalign can save them years of added emotional trauma and confidence issues. But why do kids love Invisalign for teens? 

Invisalign Is Clear
Invisalign aligners are made from a special material called SmartTrack®. This FDA-approved thermoplastic material is specifically made to be clear, strong, and do the necessary job in as little time as possible. The aligners fit right over the teeth, so there are no brackets, wires, or metal components to worry about. That means your teen can socialize, smile, and enjoy their friends without feeling like they’re sticking out like a sore thumb. 

There Are no Food Restrictions
When getting braces, your dentist will usually give you a long and specific list of off-limit foods. This is to protect the appliance and avoid causing extra issues such as bacteria buildup and decay between appointments. That’s not a concern with Invisalign. As long as you follow the care instructions, no foods are off-limits simply because they could harm the aligners. You’ll still need to follow a healthy diet and enjoy special snacks in moderation for health reasons, but you won’t have to avoid your favorite treats just because of dental issues.

Invisalign Is Removable
One of the best parts of the Invisalign for teens treatment is that the aligners are removable. The aligners need to be worn for 20-22 hours a day to do their job. But they need to be removed for eating, drinking, and maintenance purposes. Each aligner comes with its own specially designed carrying case, so there are no worries about misplacing the aligners as you eat. Simply remove them, place them in the container, eat your meal or snack, brush your teeth and the aligners as your Red Bank Dentist recommends, and replace the aligners back in your mouth. It really is as simple as that.

Athletic or Active Lifestyles Are Permitted
Extracurricular activities such as sports and even music endeavors are essential to adolescent growth. However, many coaches, instructors, and even dentists refuse to sign acceptance forms for kids who wear braces. Besides the potential appliance damage, rough behavior via sports or even adjusting the mouth correctly for band can lead to popped wires, sharp metal edges, and mouth injuries. That’s not an issue with Invisalign. The aligners can often be kept in while participating in the activity. But even if that’s a concern, Invisalign is removable and can potentially be replaced after practice or the event. 

Invisalign Requires Fewer Trips to the Orthodontist
Traditional braces require orthodontic appointments to be scheduled and kept on a 4 to 10 week basis. That can be a chaotic challenge for any busy family. Invisalign, however, only requires visits to the orthodontist every 10 to 12 weeks. And since the Invisalign for teens treatment averages 10 to 18 months for completion compared to several years for braces, that leaves a lot of extra time for family fun. Give your Red Bank Dentist a call to discuss if Invisalign is right for your teens.