Invisalign Teen™ in Melbourne, FL

Schedule your consultation today! Call 321.259.8000 to learn more.

Straighten Your Teen's Teeth Discreetly With Invisalign Teen™

Navigating orthodontic treatment can be challenging for teenagers seeking a confident smile. Invisalign Teen has revolutionized teeth straightening, providing a cutting-edge alternative to traditional metal braces that combines comfort, aesthetics, and effectiveness. 

Solid Bite's experienced team of Melbourne dentists—Dr. Lee Sheldon, Dr. Matt Sheldon, and Dr. Michel Furtado—are committed to helping teens achieve their perfect smile. Contact our Brevard County dental practice by dialing (321) 259-8000 today to explore Invisalign treatment options and schedule your personalized consultation!

What Is Invisalign Teen?

Invisalign Teen represents a modern orthodontic align technology solution designed specifically for adolescents. These innovative Invisalign clear aligners are crafted from a smooth, transparent plastic material that virtually disappears when worn, addressing the self-consciousness and pain many teens experience with traditional braces.

The Invisalign for Teens Process

Initial Consultation and Assessment

The Invisalign journey for teens begins with a comprehensive consultation with an Invisalign-trained doctor. During this appointment, the provider will thoroughly examine your teenager's teeth and overall oral health to determine if Invisalign clear aligners are the right treatment option for their specific orthodontic needs.

They will discuss treatment goals, and expectations, and address any concerns you or your teen may have regarding treatment with Invisalign clear aligners. This initial evaluation is crucial in determining the suitability of Invisalign clear aligners for your teen's unique case.

Advanced 3D Imaging and Treatment Planning

Following the initial assessment, the orthodontist will use cutting-edge 3D imaging technology to create a precise digital model of your teen's teeth. This advanced technology allows for the creation of a detailed treatment plan that maps out the entire process of tooth movement from the initial position to the final desired outcome. The 3D visualization enables both you and your teen to preview the anticipated results before treatment even begins, providing a clear understanding of the expected outcome.

Custom Aligner Fabrication

Once the treatment plan is finalized, the digital impressions and treatment plan are sent to Invisalign, where a series of custom-made, clear aligners are crafted specifically for your teenager. Each clear aligner used in the series is designed to apply gentle, consistent pressure to gradually shift the teeth into their desired positions. The number of aligners required will depend on the complexity of your teen's case.

Aligner Wear and Routine

Your teen will be instructed to wear each set of aligners for approximately one to two weeks before moving on to the next set in the series. It's crucial for the aligners to be worn for 20-22 hours per day to ensure effective treatment. The aligners should only be removed for eating, drinking (except water), brushing, and flossing. This disciplined approach is essential for achieving optimal results within the projected treatment timeline.

Regular Check-ups and Progress Monitoring

Throughout the Invisalign Teen treatment process, your teenager will have regular dental check-ups with the provider, typically every six to eight weeks. These appointments allow the orthodontist to monitor your teen's progress, make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan, and provide the next set of aligners. These check-ins are crucial for ensuring the treatment is progressing as planned and addressing any concerns that may arise during the process.

Treatment Completion and Retention

As the treatment nears completion, your orthodontist or dentist will assess the final results to ensure your teen's smile meets the desired outcome. After the active phase of Invisalign treatment, your teen will likely be instructed to wear retainers, typically at night, to maintain the new position of their teeth. This retention phase is crucial for preserving the results achieved through the Invisalign Teen treatment.

What Does Invisalign Teen Correct?

Our Invisalign treatment for teens effectively addresses various orthodontic challenges:

• Tooth Crowding: Gently repositioning teeth to create proper alignment and eliminate overcrowding.
• Tooth Gaps: Closing spaces between teeth caused by missing teeth or excessive jaw space.
• Overbite: Correcting upper teeth positioning that extends beyond lower teeth.
• Underbite: Addressing lower teeth protrusion past front teeth.
• Crossbite: Realigning mismatched upper and lower jaw positions.
• Open Bite: Ensuring proper tooth contact for optimal bite functionality.

Pros vs. Cons of Invisalign for Teens

Every treatment option has its unique characteristics. Here's a balanced perspective:

Pros

• Nearly Invisible: Nearly invisible aligners boost teen confidence during treatment. The clear plastic aligners are virtually unnoticeable, allowing teenagers to straighten their teeth without the self-consciousness often associated with traditional metal braces. 
• Removable: Removable trays simplify eating and oral hygiene routines. Teens can easily remove the aligners before meals, allowing them to enjoy their favorite foods without restrictions. This removability also facilitates better oral hygiene practices, as brushing and flossing can be performed normally.
• Shorter Treatment Duration: Invisalign treatment potentially offers a shorter duration compared to traditional braces. For mild to moderate cases, Invisalign can often achieve desired results more quickly than conventional orthodontic methods.
• No Metal Brackets or Wires: The absence of metal brackets and wires means reduced discomfort for teens. The smooth, custom-made aligners minimize irritation and discomfort often associated with traditional braces.
• Customized Treatment: Customized treatment plans cater to each teen's unique orthodontic needs. Advanced technology allows for precise and predictable treatment planning, guiding teeth into the desired position over time.

Cons

• Requires 22-hour Daily Wear: The treatment requires disciplined 22-hour daily wear for optimal results. Teens must be committed to wearing their aligners consistently, which can be challenging for some.
• Not Suitable for all Orthodontic Cases: Invisalign is not suitable for all orthodontic complexities. Some severe alignment issues may still require traditional metal braces for optimal correction16.
• Potentially Higher Costs: The cost of Invisalign treatment can potentially be higher than traditional metal braces in some cases. This factor may influence the decision-making process for some families.
• Requires Consistent Commitment: Successful treatment requires consistent patient commitment throughout the process. Teens must be responsible for keeping track of their aligners, wearing them as directed, and maintaining proper oral hygiene.

Caring for Clear Aligners

Proper maintenance is crucial for treatment success:

• Cleaning the Aligners: Daily cleaning prevents bacterial buildup and discoloration. Use lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush with gentle, clear soap. Invisalign's specialized cleaning systems offer additional maintenance options.
• Storing the Aligners: Always use the provided case to prevent damage or loss. Avoid wrapping aligners in napkins during meals to prevent accidental disposal.
• Handling the Aligners: Apply and remove with steady, gentle force. Start from molars and work forward, avoiding biting into place.
• Scheduled Changes: Follow the orthodontist's precise aligner replacement schedule, typically every one to two weeks.
• Regular Check-Ups: Attend scheduled appointments every four to six weeks to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions