Invisalign and Spark Clear Aligner Treatment for Teens
Approximately 75% of teenagers experience orthodontic issues with their developing teeth and alignment of their bites. Teens are already self-conscious so having a mouth full of metal braces to fix those issues may not be desirable.
Teeth-straightening options for teens that do not use metal braces include Invisalign Teen and the Spark Clear Aligner System. Since these products use invisible aligners, these options are ideal for anyone who does not want other people to see that they are trying to straighten their teeth. With Invisalign Teen and the Spark Clear Aligner System, young adults can straighten their teeth while avoiding the social stigma associated with braces.
Benefits of Invisalign Teen and the Spark Clear Aligner System
Aesthetic Appeal – Custom-crafted, clear-plastic, invisible aligners are virtually impossible for others to detect. This feature eliminates embarrassment associated with traditional metal braces.
Treatment Motivation – Tiny indicators inside each tray track whether the teen wears their trays as prescribed. This monitoring produces better results more quickly and boosts cooperation.
Good Investment – We understand that younger patients may misplace their belongings. Therefore, we offer six replacement aligner trays for each Invisalign Teen patient.
Versatile Orthodontic Treatment – Clear aligners can treat a wide variety of malocclusions, ranging from mild dental issues to more severe conditions.
Convenience – Unlike the process with traditional metal braces, orthodontic treatment with clear aligners requires fewer office visits and appointment times are shorter.
Freedom to Enjoy Food – Because Invisalign Teen and the Spark Clear Aligner System have removable aligner trays, young people receiving treatment with these products can enjoy their favorite foods without any restrictions.
Maintain Oral Health – Since users can remove clear aligner trays for twice-daily teeth brushing and flossing, maintaining proper oral hygiene during treatment is easy.
No Irritation – Since there are no brackets or wires that dig into soft tissue, there is no risk of mouth damage or irritation with Invisalign Teen or the Spark Clear Aligner System.
Improved Quality of Life – Some teens find it difficult to play a musical instrument or participate in sports while wearing traditional braces. With clear aligners, young adults do not face those limitations. Teenagers can remove their clear aligner trays whenever they wish to participate in an activity.
Other clear aligner treatment options
Spark Clear Aligner System and Invisalign treatments are also available for adults. A confident smile is beneficial for everyone, especially for someone who interacts with people frequently, such as a business executives, pastors, customer service agents, and greeters.
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about Invisalign Teen or the Spark Clear Aligner System, contact us and speak with our board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Kendra Pratt Manning, in The Woodlands, TX. Ready now? Schedule an appointment to get started!
Invisalign and Spark Clear Aligners for Teens FAQs
Getting Invisalign or Spark clear aligners is an exciting step. Within a few short months, you or your teen can enjoy having a more beautiful, healthy smile. To learn more about the most common questions about clear aligners, read on.
Invisalign was originally approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1998 as one of the first clear aligners. It uses a SmartTrack system, but Spark aligners use an entirely different material.
When comparing Spark clear aligners vs Invisalign, one of the biggest differences is the material. Spark is the next generation of aligners, so it is virtually invisible. It’s more durable and comfortable than Invisalign. Each set is made using 3D computer-imaging technology and custom-trimmed edges.
No matter which program you use, you’ll end up with a set of clear aligners for your teeth. These aligners will be exchanged as your teeth shift into their new locations as each aligner has slight, comfortable movements. Since they are changed every 10-14 days, they stay very clear. Eventually, you’ll be able to enjoy a straighter smile.
Basically, the aligners are a slightly adjusted mold of your teeth. This slight difference gradually moves your teeth to a new location. Once the teeth shift to one location, you will be given a new set to continue the adjustment process until your teeth are aligned ideally.
Invisalign is made out of patented SmartTrack plastic material. Meanwhile, Spark clear aligners are made with TruGEN, which is known for being stronger and more comfortable than SmartTrack.
With clear aligners, you only have to visit your orthodontist every few months. The doctor will evaluate your smile and create a personalized treatment plan. Afterward, you will get a new set of aligners you change out at home until your treatment plan is completed.
You should brush your clear aligners using lukewarm water and antibacterial hand or dish soap morning and night when you also brush your teeth.
It’s normal for clear aligners to cost $2,000 to $6,000. The Spark clear aligners cost depends on where you go for your treatment as well as how complex your dental alignments are.
When you’re wearing your clear aligners, you shouldn’t eat or drink anything other than water. If you take your aligners out, you can eat anything you want. If possible, after you eat or drink anything, you should brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in. If not possible, make sure and clean them very well with antibacterial soap morning and nighttime.
You are expected to wear your aligners at least 22 hours a day. Otherwise, they won’t work. Because of this, you will need to wear them while sleeping.
You can absolutely kiss while wearing Invisalign or Spark clear aligners. Your kissing partner won’t even notice they’re there.
You shouldn’t eat or drink while wearing them, but you can take them out at mealtimes. Additionally, you should avoid scratching them, playing with them, and leaving them in a hot car during the summer.
Children can begin using clear aligners around age 11. Since everyone grows and matures at a different rate, it’s important to get a professional evaluation to see if your child is ready for clear aligners.
Invisalign and Spark aligners are both designed to be completely invisible. Thanks to their new technology, Spark aligners are even less noticable than Invisalign.
When you don’t wear your clear aligners for long enough each day, your teeth can shift back to their original positions. At the very least, the aligners won’t be able to shift your teeth to their new, desired positions. Do not ever take breaks in your treatment. If you are unsure if you have worn your aligners enough, call your orthodontist for proper instructions.
Learn More About Clear Aligners
If you’re interested in getting Invisalign or Spark clear aligners, we can help. Call Dr. Pratt Manning’s office to schedule an evaluation and learn more.