Adult and Teen Orthodontics

It wasn’t that long ago that the only real choice that you had for straightening your teeth was traditional metal braces. Although traditional braces are still around, and still as effective as ever, you now have quite a few treatment methods to choose from. Both adults and teenagers are encouraged to consider having their teeth straightened with braces or Invisalign. 

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces are what you most likely think of when considering teeth straightening treatments. They involve the use of metal wires and brackets to straighten teeth over time. And modern braces are far more comfortable and compact than in years past. They are also fully customizable because of the variety of colored bands that you can choose from.

Clear Braces

Sometimes known as a ceramic braces, clear braces work much like traditional metal braces, except the brackets are either translucent or colored to match the teeth.

Ceramic braces are strong, but they are made from a material that can more easily become chipped or cracked. Traditional braces are more tolerant of higher pressures than ceramic braces.

Ceramic braces still make a great treatment option for many patients and are popular among adults. If they are paired with translucent or tooth-colored wires and ties, they make a discrete and effective teeth straightening method.

Invisalign

Invisalign has steadily risen in popularity over the years, offering a virtually undetectable system for straightening teeth. The clear plastic aligners used with this method help you straighten your teeth without being incredibly obvious about it.

Your aligners can be removed whenever you like. If you need to brush and floss your teeth, simply remove them and replace them when you’re done. The same goes for eating meals and snacking.

Invisalign Benefits:

• Almost invisible
• Conveniently removable
• No food restrictions

How Invisalign Works

Periodically, you will be provided with a set of clear aligners to be worn during your treatment. About every two weeks, you’ll be swapping out your current set for a new one until you complete your individual treatment plan.

Differences Between Teen and Adult Invisalign

Invisalign is basically the same for both teens and adults; however, there are a few differences.

Tracking Time

Patients are required to wear their aligners up to 22 hours a day so that their teeth are straightened on schedule. Teenagers have more of a tendency to forget to replace their aligners than adults. So Teen Invisalign aligners have a blue indicator on them, tracking how long each aligner is worn.

Number of Aligners

Another important difference between adult and Teen Invisalign is how many aligners are needed to reach the treatment goals of the patient. Teenagers normally receive more aligners because they have more of a tendency to lose them during everyday life. So teens are provided with some backup aligners in case they should lose them during their often hectic lives.