At Hamer & Glassick Orthodontics in Charlottesville Va, we receive many questions about Invisalign Teen, so we understand that there may be misconceptions about the treatment process. Invisalign Teen is quickly becoming the orthodontic treatment of choice for high school students preferring to avoid the metal of traditional braces.
The many reasons teens request Invisalign treatment include:
- Virtual invisibility
- Removability
- Lack of dietary restrictions
- Easier cleaning and flossing
- Fewer and shorter appointments
Here are some common misunderstandings about Invisalign Teen that we would like to clarify so that you rest assured that it is a viable option for your child.
MYTH #1: “It Costs More.”
It doesn’t. Invisalign Teen costs about the same as traditional braces, and your dental insurance may already cover some of the costs. Your treatment plan will include a breakdown of all applicable fees, and we will inform you of all costs before treatment starts.
We thoroughly explain your options so that we can accommodate your needs. We are pleased to offer in-house financing options to help make your treatment more affordable. We offer an orthodontic discount for those who pay in full upfront and for multiple family members receiving treatment.
MYTH #2: “It Doesn’t Work as Well.”
But it does! It works great. Every two weeks your teen will switch out his/her custom made Invisalign aligners for the next set, until the teeth are gradually guided into their optimal positions. Invisalign is used to treat mild-to-severe cases of under bite, overbite, overcrowding and gaps between teeth.
No wires, brackets or elastics, which might break or need replacement, are involved in the Invisalign Teen system. This makes Invisalign Teen a highly effective, efficient treatment.
MYTH #3: “It’s More Difficult to Keep Up With.”
The removable aspect of Invisalign Teen may seem a bit challenging to keep track of. However, you may be surprised at just how easily Invisalign will merge into anyone’s lifestyle. It can act as a mouthguard when playing sports. It can also be taken out for important pictures and playing instruments.
If your teenager loses a set of aligners, no worries: six replacement aligners are included in most Invisalign treatment packages. Invisalign is also easier to keep up with in terms of time; patients and parents spend 30 percent less time at our office, as aligners only need to be progressively supplied at an appointment every 8 to 10 weeks.
While Invisalign Teen will need to be worn exactly as your orthodontist recommends, it is easier to ensure patient compliance with the Invisalign system than with metal braces! Invisalign Teen comes with a blue compliance indicator that will help you and your teen keep track of how much time he or she is wearing the aligner (which should be 22-23 hours daily, with a two-hour window for eating, brushing and flossing).This indicator also lets you know when to replace your aligners with a new set.
Dr. Hamer and Dr. Glassick encourage all potential orthodontic patients to ask questions and educate themselves about the many orthodontic treatment options available (our website can help). We offer a complimentary orthodontic consultation to evaluate your jaw alignment and any bite issues, as well as plan the best treatment option for you. Please request your complimentary consultation online or contact us at (434) 296-0188.