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?

2 answers to “Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces...”

A: Invisalign vs Traditional Braces

Robert Fields, DDS
By Robert Fields, DDS - Los Angeles Cosmetic dentist

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... more

A: Invisalign for Teens

Susan Goode Estep, DMD
By Susan Goode Estep, DMD - Atlanta Cosmetic dentist

Invisalign is a GREAT option for your daughter!  About a year ago, Invisalign started accepting teens for treatment.  What a great way to do braces in high-school!  She will need to treat both arches (it costs the same as a single arch) so that her bite will be aligned after her lower teeth... more

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Joe_P
unregistered guest

4 Mar 2009

I would suggest traditional braces because they are most effect. My bottom teeth were crowded and, though Invisalign moved my teeth, it didn't finish the job. Keep in mind that with Invisalign, your daughter may need her teeth filed in order for the teeth to move. If she's worried about her appearance, Invisalign is a great alternative. I'm not saying Invisalign won't do a great job, but it's just safer to get traditional braces. My site explains my journey with Invisalign: http://www.invisalignresults.com/

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