Most teens would rather not spend two years with a mouth full of metal. Clear aligners are the most popular alternative. They are a series of custom, nearly invisible trays that gradually move teeth into place. Each tray is worn for about one to two weeks before moving on to the next.
At Singh Smile Care we offer Invisalign, including Invisalign for teens, and Six Month Smiles clear aligners for patients 16 and older. Not every teen is a fit for aligners, so we start with an exam and an honest conversation about which option will work best.
How Aligners Compare to Braces
Braces use brackets bonded to each tooth and wires that are tightened over time. Aligners use custom-molded trays made from a scan of your teen's mouth. Because the trays apply gentle pressure to all the teeth at once, many teens find them more comfortable than braces, with less soreness and fewer, shorter appointments.
Less Time in the Chair
Braces need regular visits for wire changes, which means missed school and activities. With aligners, your teen switches to the next tray at home, and check-ins are less frequent. Some teens finish aligner treatment faster than they would with braces.
Look Better, Feel Better
Aligners are hard to notice, which matters to teens. They come out for meals, so there are no food restrictions, and brushing and flossing stay simple. Braces call for extra cleaning tools and more time. Aligners also suit active teens. Brackets can injure the lips and cheeks during contact sports, while aligners fit snugly and work with a standard mouthguard.
- Nearly invisible
- Removable for eating and brushing
- No food restrictions
- Sports-friendly with a regular mouthguard
What Teens Need to Know
Aligners only work when they are worn. The target is 20 to 22 hours a day. Because they are easy to take out, teens sometimes forget to put them back in, which slows progress. Clean them daily with warm water and a soft toothbrush, rinse them with cool water after taking them out, and never leave them lying around. Brush and floss before putting them back in.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do clear aligners work?
We take a scan or mold of your teen's mouth and plan the movement. Each tray in the series is custom-made for that stage and moves the teeth a little further. Switching trays on schedule keeps the teeth moving toward the final result.
How comfortable are clear aligners?
Generally very comfortable. Your teen may feel some pressure or sensitivity for a day or two after switching to a new tray. That is a sign the aligners are working, and it fades quickly.
Will aligners affect my teen's speech?
Possibly for a short time. Some teens notice a slight lisp while the tongue gets used to the trays. It usually goes away within days.
How long does aligner treatment take?
It varies with the case. Many teens see final results in 12 to 18 months. Six Month Smiles treatment for patients 16 and older is designed to take around six months. Not wearing the trays enough makes it take longer.
How should aligners be cleaned?
Daily. Rinse them each time they come out, then soak in warm (not hot) water and gently scrub with a soft toothbrush. Trays that are not cleaned build up bacteria and can start to look cloudy.
Ready to Skip the Metal?
Call (623) 400-6009 or book online to find out if clear aligners are right for your teen.
