Phase 1 orthodontic treatment typically consists of traditional appliances and is recommended while children still have some of their temporary teeth. It acts as a pre-treatment to when all of their permanent teeth will emerge as teens, drastically shortening the time that they need to wear braces in middle and high school. In the past, metal brackets and wires were the only option, but today, your child will be able to choose between that or Invisalign First, which utilizes discreet clear aligners. Read on to learn more about how Invisalign First works and whether it would be a good option for your little one.
How Does Invisalign First™ Work?
Invisalign First is specially designed for children with mixed dentition (both their permanent and temporary teeth), which is why it’s recommended around six to 10 years old. Also known as Phase 1 orthodontics, this early intervention is designed to proactively address problems that can require more extensive intervention down the road. By fixing misalignment and malocclusion before their bone structure has set and fully grown, their orthodontist can reduce the impact these issues have on them as a teen.
Similar to other types of Invisalign treatment, Invisalign First utilizes clear, smooth trays to gradually and gently guide their jaw and arches to develop in a way that allows adequate room for their teeth. Throughout their journey, they’ll need to visit their orthodontist for routine check-ins to ensure that their results are tracking with their treatment plan.
Problems Invisalign First™ Can Address
Invisalign First works to prevent orthodontic issues like bite misalignment from getting worse, leading to the need for more invasive procedures down the road, like jaw surgery. Throughout your child’s journey, their aligners will act to address the following problems:
- Overbite, underbite, and crossbite
- Crowding
- Misalignment
- Gaps between teeth
The Benefits of Invisalign First™
Invisalign First is a great alternative to traditional phase 1 orthodontics for children. They’ll be able to enjoy the following benefits:
- Can address a range of orthodontic problems in developing children to minimize their need for more invasive intervention down the road.
- Removable trays make it easier to prevent cavities during their treatment. Simply soak their trays and have them brush and floss their teeth as they normally would.
- Ability to eat all of their favorite foods. They’ll just have to take their trays out of their mouth beforehand.
- More comfortable, smoother appliances than traditional metal brackets and wires.
With so many benefits to offer, as well as a short average treatment time of around 12 months, depending on your child’s individual case, Invisalign First has become a top choice among parents.
About the Author
Dr. Sarit is a Board-Certified Orthodontist who has completed specialty training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. She’s dedicated to providing comfortable and compassionate care to young patients, as she knows how much of an impact early childhood visits to the dentist can have on them. She’s an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists and American Board of Orthodontics. To schedule a consultation to learn more about Invisalign First, visit Dr. Glen’s Happy Teeth’s website or call 516-517-0331.