How teen treatment differs from adult treatment
Adults have finished growing. Most teens have not, so their jaws are still developing and new teeth and molars may still be coming in. Treatment for a teen has to take those changes into account.
The upside is that growing bones and tissues respond well to orthodontic treatment, so treatment for teens is often faster than for adults. Otherwise the two are very similar, and aligners can correct the same kinds of problems in both.
How it works
A series of custom aligners applies gradual pressure to move your teen's teeth into place in small steps, following a precise plan. The trays are made to fit your teen's mouth, which helps keep discomfort down, and they slide over the teeth and come out to eat, drink, brush, floss and play sports or an instrument. Most teens do not need the aligners refitted. Sometimes teeth do not move exactly as planned because of a broken aligner, other dental treatment or slow, complex movements. When that happens, we may order a new set to get things back on track.
Features made for teens
- Wear indicator. Each aligner has a blue compliance indicator that fades to clear to show it has been worn long enough each day.
- SmartTrack material. It keeps the aligners smooth and comfortable.
- Attachments. Small tooth-colored shapes help the aligners push with the right force in the right direction.
- Mandibular advancement. For some complex overbites, which are common in teens, precision wings can gradually move the lower jaw. Ask us whether it applies.
Why families choose it
Aligners are nearly invisible, so teens who are self-conscious about their looks can wear them with confidence. They treat most of the same problems as traditional braces. They are also removable, so there are no diet restrictions, and sports, meals and cleaning teeth are much easier.
What it takes from your teen
Aligners only work while they touch the teeth, so your teen needs to wear them 20 to 22 hours a day. That still leaves time to take them out to eat, brush and play. Eating or drinking with them in can cause staining, breakage or bacteria buildup. If they are worn too little, treatment slows, teeth can drift back and the trays stop fitting well. Success depends on your teen's commitment, so it is worth talking honestly together about whether aligners or braces fit better.
Not sure which option suits your teen? Call (781) 289-3331 and we will examine their teeth and explain their choices.
Common questions
What if my teen loses an aligner?
Call us first. We may suggest going back to the previous set, moving on to the next one or ordering a replacement, depending on where they are in treatment.
Are there diet restrictions?
No. Unlike braces, aligners come out for meals. Your teen should not eat or drink with them in, except water.
How many hours a day should my teen wear them?
Between 20 and 22 hours. They can take them out to eat, drink, clean their teeth and play sports.
What happens if my teen does not wear them enough?
Treatment will not progress as planned, teeth can move back and the trays may no longer fit.
How long does treatment take?
It depends on the diagnosis, but it can take about 10 to 24 months. We can give a clearer timeline after an exam.