Invisalign is one of the latest – and quite popular – alternatives to traditional metal braces offered by our Chapel Hill, NC, orthodontist. It comes in two varieties – regular Invisalign for adults and Invisalign Teen for younger patients. Both types of Invisalign straighten teeth with a series of customized, clear, and removable aligners. Without the metal wires or brackets, Invisalign is a virtually invisible orthodontic treatment method for anyone who needs braces. But what is the difference between these two types of Invisalign? Keep reading to find out!
Our Chapel Hill, NC, Orthodontist Explains the Difference Between Invisalign & Invisalign Teen
Even with their growing popularity, many patients are not aware that Invisalign and Invisalign Teen are two different products. Both options straighten teeth by using the clear plastic aligners changed every two weeks – the teeth gradually shift into their proper position.
Invisalign Teen, however, has several unique features. Read more to learn about the 3 key differences between regular Invisalign and Invisalign Teen.
#1 – Invisalign Teen Has Built-In “Compliance” Indicators
According to our Chapel Hill orthodontist, the two blue dots located on each aligner fade to clear after two weeks of proper wear. This helpful indicator guides each patient to follow the prescribed wearing schedule; parents know when a reminder is necessary too! For best results, our orthodontist in Chapel Hill recommends that patients wear their aligners for at least 20 hours per day, throughout the entire course of treatment.
#2 – Lost Your Aligner? Invisalign Teen Comes with Replacements!
Our Chapel Hill, NC, orthodontist understands that busy teenagers can also be forgetful too. After all, accidents happen! Invisalign Teen users receive up to six replacement aligners – at no extra charge. Now THAT’S something to smile about!
#3 – Invisalign Teen Accommodates Your Child’s Growth & Development
Your teen may still experience growing teeth or a changing mouth during orthodontic treatment, which can become a challenging alignment issue with traditional metal braces. Invisalign Teen’s patented technology has special features to make extra space for any newly erupting molars.
Invisalign & Invisalign Teen Are Easy & Convenient – Talk to Our Chapel Hill, NC, Orthodontist to Learn More!
Anyone who has worn traditional metal braces is all too familiar with the issues associated with wires and brackets, especially when it comes to keeping them clean. With both Invisalign for adults and Invisalign Teen, the aligners are removable, so you or your teen can brush and floss normally. The removable feature also means that you don’t have to worry about any food restrictions; your teen can feel free to bite into an apple, enjoy crunching raw carrots, or even savor that movie popcorn.
Is Invisalign Teen the Right Option for Your Child?
If you are interested in Invisalign for yourself or Invisalign Teen for your child, we can help! Our Chapel Hill orthodontist is an experienced Invisalign provider who can answer all your questions. Contact Wilson Orthodontics to learn more!
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to orthodontics, feel free to contact Wilson Orthodontics, with a convenient orthodontist office near Chapel Hill, NC, by clicking here or by calling 919.383.7423.