Are you considering getting your kid’s teeth straightened but think it’s best to wait until they’re a teenager? In fact, now dentists advise that you should start orthodontic treatment younger. You may also have some questions like, are Invisalign braces for kids are a better option than traditional braces, and at what age can a child get Invisalign First? Here are six key things that are worth keeping in mind.
Advice from a dentist on Invisalign braces
According to senior dentist and surgeon DR ALEXIA KWAN, things have come a long way since the kind of excruciating preparatory teeth extractions and tightening appointments I put up with as a teenager in the 1990s.
“The misconception that orthodontic treatment should wait until adolescence overlooks the prime opportunity to guide facial development and oral health starting as young as age six,” says Dr Kwan.
Invisalign also does away with so much of the discomfort I went through. This modern clear alternative to metal braces allows teeth to be straightened without brackets and wires using a series of clear, customised, removable aligners – and Invisalign First is the version designed for kids. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider them for your children.
#1 You can start Invisalign braces young
I’ve always been a believer in pro-active dental care for my tribe. It gives dentists a chance to identify and address structural issues early. Dr Kwan endorses this approach, noting that parents play an active role to help instil good oral hygiene habits in their child.
“Starting Invisalign for children aged six to ten can lead to a beautiful smile and better jaw development,” says Dr Kwan. It can be timed perfectly for children with a mix of baby and permanent teeth. “The custom-fit moulds are ideal for growing mouths as they correct a range of orthodontic issues and promote the right conditions for permanent teeth to flourish.”
#2 Prevents the need for complex future treatments
“Invisalign First helps reduce crowding of current teeth, guides jaw growth and creates space for eruption of permanent teeth. This reduces the need for complex surgical treatments when the child gets older,” advises Dr Kwan. It leads to simpler final corrections and a higher chance of avoiding tooth extraction, ensuring a lasting, healthy smile.
#3 Invisalign braces for kids are super efficient
My active six- and eight-year-old boys are hard to pin down for long, so I’m all about efficiency. Invisalign can reduce orthodontist visits and save time. “Children benefit from quicker treatment, achieving a straighter smile and improved oral health sooner,” says Dr Kwan.
#4 Improves speech
Speech is dependent on the position of the tongue and where it rests on the front teeth. Misalignment and gaps can cause a lisp. Parents also often worry about how orthodontic treatments might affect their child’s speech. “Traditional braces can impact speech initially, whereas Invisalign’s aligners allow kids to maintain their natural speech patterns,” says Dr Kwan. They can then develop language and social skills without interruption.
#5 Improves appearance and builds confidence
The position of our teeth support overlying facial features, and can make the jaw look misaligned. Crooked teeth can really dent a child’s confidence and make them shy to smile, especially when posing for pics. “Invisalign is a subtle fix that straightens teeth without the bulky look of braces, giving a real boost to a child’s self-esteem,” says Dr Kwan. Keep smiling!
#6 A less painful experience than traditional braces
A common question is “is Invisalign painful for kids?.” In fact, Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional braces, according to Dr Kwan. “The aligners ensure your child experiences gentle shifts, reducing discomfort during the adjustment period.” Plus, no pesky wires sticking out means fewer mouth sores, offering an easier transition for the little ones.
About the dentist
Dr Alexia Kwan is a senior dental surgeon who has a special interest in Invisalign braces for kids plus implants, wisdom tooth surgery and cosmetic procedures like veneers, crowns and bridges. As a director at Align Dental Surgery, she offers a full range of general dentistry services for adults and children.
Align Dental Surgery
#01-07/08/09 Forum The Shopping Mall, 583 Orchard Road
6773 7088 | aligndentalsurgery.com
This article first appeared in the May 2024 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
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