Invisalign vs Traditional Braces

Robert Fields, DDS answers: Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces for teens?

My daughter is interested in Invisalign, mainly because she is a sophomore in high school and our dentist where we live says she would need braces for 2 and a half years. She picked up a pamphlet for Invisalign and saw a case similiar to her bottom teeth (which are the main problem) and the time period was 7-11 months. Her top teeth are pretty much straight, but her bottoms are over-crowded. With two teeth behind the center ones. One on each side. She wants to straighten these but with the dentist saying it would be two and a half years with the wires on both top and bottom, so she is obviously not too keen with this.

Would there be a difference between Invisalign and traditional braces for her? Also, the difference cost wise? Which would most likely be better for her?


Robert Fields, DDS
2 months ago

I think your daughter would be happier with the Invisalign from an asethetic standpoint since they are clear and she will not be self conscious regarding her braces in her mouth.

The problem with teenagers is they have to wear their aligners regularly and stick to the program. Compliance on their part is the most important part of making this procedure work effectively. So consider this before you invest in Invisalign. It is a wonderful thing for teenagers since they have teen Invisalign now, but her dentist must make sure she understands what is involved if she wants straight teeth. The added benefit at the end is, the same trays can be used for whitening her teeth and this would be an added incentive for her!

You should see a dentist with experience in both metal and invisalign since many teenagers may have complex problems that will need more orthodontic help than invisalign can provide. See a professional with experience and also always get a second opinion before investing this amoujt of money into a dental procedure.

Good Luck!

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