Invisalign for Teens Irvine, CA
Invisalign® for teens is now more popular than ever. These nearly invisible orthodontic devices allow teens to straighten their teeth discreetly and effectively. Image-conscious patients can benefit from orthodontic treatment without the hassle of brackets and wires.
Invisalign for teens is available at Smile by Design Dental Group in Irvine and the surrounding area. Our team can handle your child's orthodontic needs. Call us today at (949) 336-3404 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Treatment Differences Between Teens and Adults
While both teens and adults can benefit from Invisalign treatment, there are some treatment differences due to varying stages of growth and development. Adults' bones have finished growing, whereas most teens' jaws are still in the process of developing. As such, Invisalign treatment for teens must account for the changes that are still taking place in their mouths, such as new teeth and molar eruptions.
Since teens are still growing, their bones and tissues tend to be more responsive to orthodontic treatment. This means that the length of Invisalign treatment for teens will often be faster than for adults. Besides these differences, Invisalign treatment for adults and teens is very similar and can treat the same types of dental issues in both age groups.
“While both teens and adults can benefit from Invisalign treatment, there are some treatment differences due to varying stages of growth and development.”
Refitting Aligners for Teens
Invisalign's clear aligners, also known as "trays," fit over the top and bottom teeth. Patients wear a series of aligners that will gradually move their teeth into proper position. Each custom-made tray is worn for a few weeks, allowing the teeth to slightly shift before moving on to the next set of trays. The next set is slightly different and helps the teeth continue to move into their desired position. Over time, the small shifts add up to a big change.
The number of trays a patient will receive and, thus, the duration of treatment depends on the amount of time needed to fix each issue. Some patients may need 20 trays, while others may need as many as 40 trays to correct their teeth. Treatment remains customized to each patient, no matter their age. Your teen must remember to put their Invisalign trays in a safe place upon removal to prevent them from being misplaced or accidentally discarded. In the event your child does misplace the trays, Invisalign Teen comes with replacement aligners that their orthodontist can provide. For cases in which a patient forgets to wear their aligners or replace them as prescribed, refitting and adjusting may be required at their follow-up appointment.
“For cases in which a patient forgets to wear their aligners or replace them as prescribed, refitting and adjusting may be required at their follow-up appointment.”
Designed Just For Teens
Align Technologies designed Invisalign Teen with teenagers in mind. Invisalign Teen remains a preferred treatment for many teenagers as the invisible trays are removed for eating, drinking, and engaging in activities. For treatment to be as effective as possible, teens will need to wear their aligners for a minimum of 22 hours a day. That gives them plenty of time to take them out for eating, cleaning, and engaging in extracurricular activities such as band practice or sports. Designed to be discreet, Invisalign trays can be worn at other times without disrupting a teen's life or making them feel self-conscious about the appearance of their smile.
One of the greatest advantages of Invisalign Teen remains its nearly-invisible trays. Less than one millimeter in thickness, these clear aligners offer teens a far less invasive alternative to traditional metal braces. The clear aligners come computer-manufactured and completely customized to fit the patient's mouth. It slides comfortably over the surfaces of teeth and can be removed to eat, drink, brush, floss, and engage in activities such as sports and playing musical instruments.
“Less than one millimeter in thickness, these clear aligners offer teens a far less invasive alternative to traditional metal braces.”
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The Latest Materials
Invisalign utilizes advanced materials and equipment to make patients' lives easier and create great smiles. These aligners consist of SmartTrack™ plastic that is only available with Invisalign treatment. Invisalign spent eight years developing and testing 260 materials to engineer the SmartTrack material.
This medical-grade, multi-layered polyurethane plastic is FDA-approved and safe and comfortable for teens. Its flexibility and durability make it an ideal choice for orthodontic treatment since it is resistant to damage and breakage. Using this material allows our team to move teeth with control, speed, comfort, and predictability.
“These aligners consist of SmartTrack™ plastic that is only available with Invisalign treatment.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How many trays will my teen need for Invisalign treatment and will they need to be refitted?
Q. What are the benefits for teenagers wearing Invisalign Teen?
Q. Why is Invisalign Teen the preferred treatment for many teens?
Q. What is the difference in Invisalign treatment for teens and adults?
People Also Ask
Q. Are braces or Invisalign aligners more effective?
Q. What are some examples of purely cosmetic procedures?
Q. How should you choose the right treatment and cosmetic dentist?
Q. What is the process of getting Invisalign?
Q. What is the best age to consider Invisalign Teen?
Q. What should people consider before seeking cosmetic dental care?
Why Teens Prefer Invisalign
Invisalign Teen is the preferred orthodontic treatment for many teenagers today. Teens feel less self-conscious wearing the aligners because of their nearly invisible design compared to traditional braces that remain difficult to hide. Teens also enjoy the freedom (engage in activities, eat their favorite foods, ect.) that comes with removable trays.
Patients who are concerned about pain may prefer Invisalign Teen as their smooth design provides enhanced comfort compared to bulky metal braces. The trays use slower, more gentle movements than traditional braces so any pain and discomfort is minimal, typically mild and temporary. If particularly sensitive to pain, Invisalign Teen offers an ideal option for teens.
“Invisalign Teen is the preferred orthodontic treatment for many teenagers today.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What happens if my teen loses their aligner?
A. If a patient loses their aligner, they should consult our team first. Possible options may be using the prior set of aligners, moving on to the next, or receiving a replacement. We will help patients choose the right option to maintain their progress.
Q. Are there any diet restrictions for Invisalign for teens?
A. Unlike traditional braces, there are no dietary restrictions with Invisalign. This is because Invisalign is removable, so patients can remove their aligners before eating. Teens should make sure not to eat or drink with their aligners to prevent staining, breakage, or bacteria accumulation.
Q. How many hours a day does my teen have to wear Invisalign?
A. Teens must wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day. Invisalign aligners only work when they touch the teeth, so it is crucial to wear them for long enough. Patients can remove their aligners during activities, including eating, drinking, cleaning teeth, and playing sports.
Q. What happens if my teen does not wear their aligners for long enough?
A. If a patient does not wear their aligners for long enough, their treatment will not progress as planned. Not wearing aligners for an extended amount of time can cause teeth to move back and the aligner trays to not fit properly. Teens must be committed throughout the treatment process to get the desired results.
Q. What is the length of treatment for Invisalign for teens?
A. The length of treatment will vary on the patient's diagnosis. However, treatment can take 10 to 24 months. Our team can provide a more precise timeline after an examination.
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Invisalign® Terminology
Learn More About Invisalign Teen Today
If you would like to learn more about Invisalign Teen for your child, call Smile by Design Dental Group in Irvine at 949-336-3404 to learn more.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- Invisalign®. How Invisalign Works. 2025
- Invisalign®. Take the Smile Assessment. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
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