February 20, 2020
Many parents know about Invisalign®, the virtually invisible way to straighten teeth without metal braces. But I’m often asked for more information about Invisalign® Teen.
In short, rather than wires and brackets, Invisalign® Teen uses a series of clear, removable aligners that have been custom-made for your teen’s teeth, a result of precise images I take with the sophisticated iTero Element Scanner. Your teen simply wears these aligners over their teeth and changes them out for a new set of aligners periodically—most often every two weeks. Little by little, your teen’s teeth gradually shift into place.
Here are the answers to the top five questions I’m asked about Invisalign Teen. I hope you find it helpful!
1. INVISALIGN TEEN CAN BE AS EFFECTIVE AS TRADITIONAL BRACES.
When worn according to the customized plan I set in place, Invisalign Teen can be as effective as traditional braces. In fact, the chances are very high your teen will be a candidate for Invisalign as it can treat many of the common issues we see.
2. THERE ARE PRACTICAL ADVANTAGES OF INVISALIGN TEEN OVER TRADITIONAL BRACES.
With Invisalign, the aligners are removable, so your teen can play sports, musical instruments and eat their favorite foods without the worry that braces will get in the way. Plus, it’s much easier to brush and floss normally to maintain proper oral hygiene.
3. AN INVISIBLE SOLUTION CAN BOOST CONFIDENCE.
Research shows that parents underestimate the extent to which teens feel self-conscious about their smile—and their appearance in general. Wearing braces can often make this lack of confidence even worse. Invisalign Teen removes a potential source of anxiety, giving them more confidence during what can be a challenging time in their lives.
4. YOUR TEEN HAS TO WEAR THE ALIGNERS MOST OF THE DAY.
Invisalign Teen is most effective when worn 20 to 22 hours per day and changed approximately every two weeks. In fact, Invisalign Teen aligners have blue indicators that fade over time when used as directed so I can track compliance.
5. YOU’LL SPEND LESS TIME AT MY OFFICE THAN WITH TRADITIONAL BRACES.
Invisalign Teen often requires less time with your orthodontist than traditional braces do. There are no adjustments to make, no brackets to re-glue and no broken wires to fix. After the initial appointment, follow-up appointments are usually scheduled every four to six weeks.
Where Your Teen Receives Health Care Is A Very Important Decision.
Dr. Nantz received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, and completed his General Practice Residency at the University of Texas, Houston, before earning his Certificate in Orthodontics from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Before entering his orthodontic residency, he practiced general dentistry for three years.
Because orthodontics and the ways to move teeth are changing every year with new techniques, Dr. Nantz participates in the Invisalign® study club, the American Association of Orthodontists annual meeting, and many other continuing education courses. He is also involved with the Texas Dental Association and the Capital Area Dental Society.
He has a commitment to regular continuing education and has years of experience providing high quality orthodontic treatment to his patients.
Think Invisalign® Teen might be a good option for your teen?
Call us at (512) 967-0802 or click below to schedule a complimentary consultation.
