If you’re looking into orthodontic care for your teenager, you’ve had a lot of sales language thrown at you to subscribe to one treatment or another. We’re here to tell you that both braces and Invisalign are great options for correcting your child’s bite and spacing issues. The option you choose should be the one that’s best for your teen’s long-term oral health and confidence.

We want to help you make the right choice for your child, so here are some pros and cons to Stone Oak Invisalign.

Pro: Invisalign Requires Less Maintenance than Braces

Braces can be quite an ordeal. Not only do you have to sit through tightening appointments and adjustments, but your teen has to be trustworthy enough to take good care of their teeth and braces throughout their treatment. 

For some, this could be a big ask. They shouldn’t be eating things like candy, popcorn, nuts, and gum, as they could damage the braces (and potentially their teeth). One huge advantage of invisible aligners is that they’re removable, so your child can still eat all of their favorite foods and easily maintain their dental hygiene.

Con: Invisible Aligners Can Get Lost

Because the aligners are removable, they can get lost. Replacing them isn’t cheap or easy, either. It would be worthwhile to talk to your teen about whether they can or want to handle the responsibility of keeping up with their retainers. If you’re willing to lend them some support while they learn to care for their Invisalign, they’re also less likely to toss them into the trash with their supper.

Pro: They’re Less Noticeable Than Braces

For many years, braces were associated with a negative stigma that affected the confidence and self-image of those who wore them. While this seems to be steadily going away, we always understand and are compassionate toward those who are worried about their appearance. If your child is worried about how they’ll look with braces, Invisalign may be a better option.

Con: They Require Strict Compliance

The success of Invisalign treatment completely depends on how well your teen follows their treatment plan. If they take them out often, the aligners can’t do their job. This can not only harm their teeth and gums, but it will cost you more money in the long run.

Thankfully, Invisalign has created a kind of aligner specifically for teens. Invisalign Teen now comes with markers on the back of the retainer that change color the more frequently they’re worn. This allows caregivers and orthodontists to track how well the teen is complying with treatment.

Pro: They’re Not as Painful as Braces

Any kind of orthodontic correction is likely to be uncomfortable, and the same is true of Invisalign. However, it’s fairly safe to say that aligners will be less painful than braces. This is partially because they are typically reserved for more minor corrections. And, that leads us to our last con.

Con: Invisalign Isn’t Right for Everyone

Invisalign works best for teens who don’t have significant bite or alignment issues. Your dentist can assess your teen’s eligibility for Invisalign and whether braces would be a better treatment.

For Stone Oak Invisalign Treatment, Choose Schatz Orthodontics

Dr. Eric Schatz and his team of highly-skilled professionals strive to create an atmosphere that puts children and teens at ease. While we foster your child’s love of the dentist, we want to create an individualized plan that sets the foundation for a healthy, happy smile for years to come. To schedule an appointment, call 210-940-1667 today.