Many parents may think clear braces are just for teens and adults, but things have changed. Can young kids get Invisalign? In some cases, yes. Clear braces are a specialized type of clear braces that are suitable for growing kids and can be applied in the early stages of orthodontic development. But it doesn't just mean that because they are old, they are or aren't suitable for aligners. The dentist who specializes in straightening teeth will take into consideration a child's teeth, jaw development, treatment requirements, and the ability to comply with instructions.
When can children begin Clear Aligner Treatment?
It's never too early for children to see an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists suggests the first orthodontic examination at age 7, but this doesn't necessarily mean treatment is necessary at such an age.
An early or “Phase 1” treatment is sometimes indicated in the case of mixed dentition. Some clear aligner systems are geared specifically toward children between the ages of 6 and 10, and can help with issues like overcrowding, spacing, and forming dental arches.
Is it possible to get braces for your children's teeth without them knowing?
Are Invisaligns for children? They can be considered candidates if their orthodontic treatment can be treated properly using removable appliances. Sometimes mouth growth can be directed with treatment and space can be created for permanent teeth to grow as a child grows up.
But clear aligners are not always the optimum option for every kid. Other appliances or treatment methods may be necessary for some orthodontic issues. Clear aligners studies in the mixed dentition period also show that their appropriate uses might be restricted compared to conventional fixed appliance.
Who's a Good Candidate?
Age is just one factor. An orthodontist will consider:
Sufficiently erupted teeth for the planned treatment is determined.
The position and development of permanent teeth
Bite issues, crowding or spacing
The development of the jaw and teeth.Growth of the jaws and teeth.
Reliability of wearing and maintaining removable aligners
Also, since aligners must be worn at all times and taken off for eating and cleaning, maturation and cooperation are also important.
For Parents thinking about Aligners:
When it comes to treating children with Invisalign, it's best to not judge the treatment based on age alone, but rather by scheduling an orthodontic evaluation. There are also some things parents can do to help their children be successful in their aligners, such as establishing a routine for wearing and cleaning aligners.
For instance, a child may store their aligner case in their school bag and follow a simple checklist of brushing at night and before school in the morning to care for their aligner case. Parents should also remind kids to take the aligners out while they're eating and put them in right away, as directed by their orthodontist.
For more information on orthodontics for kids, and what to expect from an evaluation at a young age.
The Bottom Line
Can young kids get Invisalign? Yes, children can also be treated with clear aligners, especially if they have certain orthodontic issues during the mixed-dentition phase. However, there isn't a single age at which this begins. An orthodontist should check the growth of the child's teeth and jaws and decide if they should use aligners, braces, another appliance or watchful waiting.
The most helpful thing that parents can do is to get a proper evaluation to an expert at an appropriate age in development. Early treatment can help detect any developing orthodontic issues and determine if treatment is indicated.
Dr. Alina is the author of this article. To know more about Thousand Oaks Invisalign, please visit our website: walker-orthodontics.com