Is My Child a Candidate for Invisalign® First™?
As a parent, you want the best for your child’s dental health, and early orthodontic intervention can make a big difference. Let’s explore what makes a child a suitable candidate for Invisalign® First™ and how it can help improve their smile. If you’re considering orthodontic care, we recommend speaking with our Invisalign orthodontist in Iowa City and Coralville, IA, to determine the best fit for your child.
In the meantime, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Invisalign First?
is an early orthodontic treatment that uses clear aligners to gradually straighten teeth and correct bite issues in children. This treatment is designed for growing kids, typically between the ages of 6 and 10, and is part of Phase 1 orthodontics. Phase 1 treatments focus on correcting alignment and bite problems before they become more serious, potentially reducing the need for extensive treatment later on.
Invisalign First aligners are custom-made to fit your child’s teeth, and they gently move the teeth into the correct position over time. The aligners are clear and removable, offering a more discreet and flexible alternative to traditional metal braces.
Early Signs Your Child May Need Invisalign First
While every child’s orthodontic needs are unique, there are a few early signs that your child may benefit from Invisalign First:
Crowding of Baby Teeth: If your child’s baby teeth are overcrowded, this could lead to misalignment as permanent teeth start to emerge. Invisalign First can help create the necessary space.
Gaps Between Teeth: On the other hand, excessive gaps between teeth may also signal alignment issues. Invisalign First can gradually close these gaps.
Bite Problems: If your child has an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, Invisalign First can correct these bite issues, preventing long-term dental problems.
Thumb-Sucking or Tongue Thrusting: Habits like thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting can affect the alignment of your child’s teeth. Invisalign First can address the orthodontic consequences of these habits early.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate?
To determine if your child is a candidate for Invisalign First, an evaluation by Dr. Mergen is essential.
Generally, Invisalign First is ideal for children who:
- Have mixed dentition (a combination of baby and permanent teeth).
- Are experiencing alignment issues that could worsen over time.
- Need early intervention to correct bite problems.
- Want a more comfortable, discreet alternative to metal braces.
may not be suitable for children who have severe orthodontic issues that require more complex interventions. However, for children with mild to moderate misalignment, this treatment can be a highly effective solution.
What Are the Benefits of Invisalign First?
One of the biggest benefits of Invisalign First is that the clear aligners are removable, allowing your child to eat, brush, and floss without any restrictions. The aligners are also comfortable to wear, which can help your child feel more confident about their orthodontic treatment.
Additionally, Invisalign First can potentially shorten the overall duration of orthodontic care by addressing alignment issues early in your child’s development.
Next Steps for Your Child’s Smile
To find out whether your child is a candidate for this innovative treatment, schedule a consultation with our Invisalign orthodontist in Iowa City and Coralville, IA. Early intervention can help ensure your child’s smile develops beautifully, preventing more complex dental issues down the road. Call one of our office locations for Mergen Orthodontics or fill out our online contact form.