At Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Chattanooga, we are committed to providing the best orthodontic care for children and teens. One of the most popular and effective treatments we offer is Invisalign®, a modern solution to straightening teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign® uses clear, removable aligners that gradually shift teeth into their ideal positions. If you’ve been considering Invisalign® for your child, it’s important to understand how it works, its benefits, associated costs and the typical treatment timeline. In this blog, we’ll break down everything our patients in Chattanooga, Signal Mountain, Cleveland, Jasper and Ooltewah TN, and Dalton, Ringgold, Fort Oglethorpe, Trenton and Athens, GA need to know about Invisalign® treatment.
What Is Invisalign®?
Invisalign® is an orthodontic solution that utilizes transparent, custom-designed aligners to gradually align and straighten teeth. These aligners are made from a smooth, comfortable plastic material and are designed to fit snugly over the teeth. You wear each set of aligners for approximately one to two weeks, then switch to the next set in the sequence. Over time, the aligners gradually shift the teeth into the desired position, much like traditional braces, but without the metal brackets and wires.
One of the main advantages of Invisalign® is that the aligners are nearly invisible, making them a popular choice for individuals who want a more discreet treatment option. In addition, Invisalign® aligners can be removed, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and enjoy food and drinks without limitations.
Benefits of Invisalign®
- Aesthetic Appeal: Invisalign® aligners are transparent and nearly invisible, allowing your child to straighten their teeth without the noticeable appearance of traditional metal braces. This aesthetic benefit is especially appealing for teens who may feel self-conscious about wearing braces.
- Comfort: Traditional braces can cause discomfort due to the metal brackets and wires, which can irritate the gums and the inside of the mouth. In contrast, Invisalign® aligners are made of smooth plastic, reducing the risk of irritation. The aligners are designed to fit closely to the teeth, offering a more comfortable and seamless experience.
- Removable: In contrast to traditional braces, Invisalign® aligners are removable, allowing for easy eating, drinking and maintaining your oral hygiene routine. This gives your child the freedom to eat their favorite foods without worrying about damaging brackets or wires. It also allows for more thorough oral hygiene, as the aligners can be taken out to brush and floss normally.
- Convenience: With Invisalign®, there are fewer visits to the orthodontist for adjustments. Patients typically switch to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, with follow-up appointments generally occurring every 6-8 weeks to monitor progress. This can be more convenient for busy families compared to the frequent visits needed with traditional braces.
- Predictable Results: Invisalign® treatment plans are mapped out using advanced 3D imaging technology, which allows both the patient and the orthodontist to see the projected results before starting treatment. This helps set realistic expectations and gives your child confidence in the treatment process.
The Cost of Invisalign®
The cost of Invisalign® treatment can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the length of treatment and the geographic location of the practice. Typically, the cost of Invisalign® treatment falls between $3,000 and $8,000.
While Invisalign® treatment is generally more expensive than traditional braces, it offers distinct advantages, such as comfort, aesthetics and convenience. The higher initial cost may be offset by the reduced number of visits and the increased comfort throughout the treatment.
At Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Chattanooga, we understand that the cost of Invisalign® may be a concern for many families. We offer flexible payment options and work with most dental insurance plans to help reduce the out-of-pocket expenses for treatment. Our team is happy to provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss payment plans during your consultation.
Treatment Timeline for Invisalign®
The typical Invisalign® treatment timeline can vary based on the severity of the misalignment and the individual needs of the patient. On average, treatment lasts between 12 and 18 months. However, some patients may complete their treatment in as little as six months, while others may need longer.
Here’s a breakdown of the Invisalign® treatment timeline:
- Consultation and Initial Exam: The first step is a consultation with our orthodontist, who will assess your child’s teeth and determine if Invisalign® is the right option. During this visit, we’ll take X-rays, digital scans and photos to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs.
- Custom Aligner Creation: Once the treatment plan is finalized, custom aligners will be created based on the digital impressions taken during the initial consultation. These aligners are made of clear, durable plastic and are designed to fit snugly over your child’s teeth.
- Wearing the Aligners: Your child will wear each set of aligners for 20-22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing. Every one to two weeks, they will switch to a new set of aligners, which will continue to move their teeth gradually.
- Regular Checkups: Throughout the treatment process, your child will have checkups every 6-8 weeks to monitor progress and ensure the treatment is on track. These appointments are quick and typically don’t require adjustments like traditional braces.
- Completion and Retainers: Once the treatment is complete, your child will be provided with a retainer to help maintain the new alignment of their teeth. Retainers are typically worn full-time for a few months and then on a part-time basis as recommended by the orthodontist.
Is Invisalign® Right for Your Child?
Invisalign® is an excellent treatment option for many children and teens who require mild to moderate orthodontic correction. However, it may not be suitable for all cases, particularly those involving complex bite issues or severe misalignment. The best way to determine if Invisalign® is the right choice for your child is to schedule a consultation with our orthodontic team at Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Chattanooga.
Request Your Consultation in Tennessee or Georgia Today
Invisalign® offers a comfortable, discreet, and effective way to straighten teeth, with the added benefits of removable aligners and fewer orthodontic visits. If you’re considering Invisalign® for your child, contact us today to request your child’s appointment and find out how we can help your child achieve the smile they’ve always wanted! At Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Chattanooga, we proudly serve the Hamilton, Bradley and McMinn counties in Tennessee and Whitfield, Catoosa, Marion and Dade Counties in Georgia.
