The time is fast approaching when we’ll say goodbye to the year 2018 and welcome 365 brand new days—fresh opportunities for growth, success, and happiness. This year, don’t let anything hold your teen back from achieving their perfect smile.
For many teenagers, crooked or imperfect teeth can have a negative impact on self-confidence. Make a New Year’s resolution to correct their cosmetic dental concerns with braces or Invisalign aligners.
What is Invisalign?
This popular orthodontic treatment is a progressive series of clear aligners that change the position of your teeth through steady pressure. Invisalign can be used to treat some of the most common cosmetic dental problems, such as gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, and mouth crowding. As your child moves through their specific treatment plan to a new set of aligners, their teeth will gradually shift into a straighter, more attractive alignment. The aligners are clear and difficult to detect during wear—perfect for teens who want a subtle treatment solution. Invisalign is ultra-convenient, requiring no emergency orthodontist visits for broken brackets or wires. They’re easily removed for eating, drinking, and brushing. Invisalign Teen has been specially designed with wear indicators, so you can be sure your teenager is wearing their aligners for the minimum prescribed time necessary to achieve results.
Traditional Braces
Metal braces have long been the primary method for fixing crooked smiles. Modern metal braces use brackets that are smaller and less perceptible than those of their predecessors. Braces not only improve the look of a smile but also advance the practical functioning of your teen’s teeth and bite.
Metal braces do require proper care by the wearer to maximize results and prevent complications. When wearing metal braces, it’s important to avoid foods that are chewy or hard and crunchy. Some foods can easily become lodged between the braces. To decrease the risk of cavities and embarrassing food-in-the-teeth moments, be sure to cut items like fruits and vegetables into small pieces, rather than biting directly into them.
What to Expect From Your Consultation
During an orthodontic consultation, you and your child will answer some questions about their dental treatment history. You should also ask your orthodontist questions to ensure you fully understand the process and goals of the treatment being proposed. Some questions you might want to ask include:
- Can my child’s dental concerns be corrected by braces or invisible aligners?
- How long will the orthodontic treatment plan take?
- How much will the treatment cost and how can I pay?
Don’t Wait to Make a Change
Orthodontic treatment is more accessible and affordable than ever before. Whether your teen chooses to use Invisalign or metal braces, you can rest assured knowing that at the end of their treatment, they’ll have a beautiful smile to be proud of! Take the first step by scheduling an orthodontic consultation with Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Virginia. We can’t wait to help your teen start their journey to a beautiful new smile!