Invisalign First for Kids: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Early orthodontic treatment, also known as phase I orthodontics, is a proactive approach to addressing dental misalignments and jaw development issues in children. Typically, early orthodontics starts between the ages of 6 and 10. 

This innovative strategy guides the growth of teeth and jaws, which is linked to preventing more severe orthodontic problems from developing. By intervening early, parents often help their children avoid extensive and costly orthodontic treatments in the future. 

One cutting-edge option in early orthodontics is Invisalign First, a treatment method that uses removable clear aligners instead of traditional metal braces. This approach offers a more comfortable and less restrictive alternative for children, making the orthodontic journey smoother for both young patients and their parents.

Read on to learn if Invisalign First is right for your child and where to find the best orthodontist for clear aligners in Sheboygan. 

What is Invisalign First? 

Invisalign First is a specialized orthodontic treatment designed specifically for children whose jaws are still developing. It uses a series of clear, removable aligners custom-made to fit a child's smaller teeth and developing jaw. These clear aligners gently guide teeth into positions better suited for future growth and address issues such as crowding, spacing, and narrow dental arches. 

Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign First aligners are virtually invisible and removable for eating or brushing — both of which make orthodontic treatment comfortable for young patients. By using 3D dental imaging technology, Invisalign First treatment is personalized to accommodate the eruption of permanent teeth and the natural growth of a child's jaw, making it an effective early intervention tool for various orthodontic concerns. 

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Phase I orthodontic treatment offers numerous advantages for children's oral health and overall development — the biggest of these is avoiding more complex and costly treatments in the future. Early orthodontic intervention accomplishes this in several ways:

• Guiding proper jaw growth and alignment
• Creating space for incoming permanent teeth
• Correcting harmful oral habits, like thumb sucking
• Improving facial symmetry
• Reducing the likelihood of having protruding front teeth that are more susceptible to dental injury
• Minimizing the need for tooth extraction in the future
• Shortening the duration of future orthodontic treatments
• Improving speech development and breathing patterns

By tackling orthodontic issues early, parents can also help improve their child’s self-esteem and confidence.

What Can Invisalign First Treat?

Invisalign First is a versatile treatment that can correct or stop a wide range of orthodontic problems before they become bigger issues. Some of the most common reasons parents choose Invisalign First are: 

• Creating space for erupting teeth and improving alignment
• Closing gaps between teeth for a more uniform smile
• Expanding the palate to accommodate all teeth properly
• Correcting misaligned bites, such as crossbite, overbite, or underbite
• Guiding front teeth into a better position to reduce the risk of injury and create a more aesthetically pleasing smile
• Addressing issues caused by thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use
• Improving the alignment of the upper and lower jaws
• Aligning the center of the upper and lower teeth

How to Decide if Braces or Clear Aligners Are Best for Your Child

Choosing between Invisalign First and traditional metal braces requires careful consideration. Invisalign First offers a more comfortable orthodontic treatment with aligners that are custom-made and removable for eating and oral hygiene. They are also generally easier to maintain and impose fewer dietary restrictions. However, traditional braces are more suitable for complex dental cases or children who struggle to wear removable aligners consistently. 

The decision ultimately depends on your child's specific orthodontic needs, lifestyle, maturity level, and personal preferences. Consulting with an experienced orthodontist who can assess your child's individual case and discuss the pros and cons of each option can help parents make the best choice. 

What to Expect During the Invisalign First Treatment Process

Treatment begins with a comprehensive dental exam and a 3D scanning of your child's oral structures using dental X-rays and a cone-beam CT scanner. Using a 3D model, a customized Invisalign First treatment plan is created for your child's specific needs. During treatment, your child will wear each set of aligners for one to two weeks before moving to the next aligner in the series. Wearing the aligner for 20-22 hours a day, removing them only for eating and oral care, is extremely important for treatment success. 

Regular dental check-ups are recommended every six to eight weeks during treatment to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments. The duration of treatment depends on the complexity of your child’s case — but typical treatment times range from six to 18 months. 

How to Care for Invisalign Clear Aligners

Proper care of Invisalign clear aligners is important for maintaining their shape and integrity — additionally, caring for your child’s aligners is a necessary part of your child’s oral health during treatment. 

To keep the aligners clean and in good condition, aligners should be rinsed with lukewarm water every time they are removed. Brushing the aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and the specialized aligner cleaner ensures they stay clean and bacteria-free. It's important to have your child brush their teeth thoroughly before reinserting the aligners to prevent trapping food particles or bacteria between the aligners and the teeth and gumline. 

When not in use, your child should store the aligners in their protective case to prevent them from being lost or damaged. 

Where to Find the Best Children's orthodontists in Sheboygan for Invisalign First Treatment

Invisalign First offers a modern, discreet solution that kids love because it's easy and comfortable. At Just Orthodontics, we specialize in providing the most innovative and effective orthodontic treatment for children and teenagers. 

Our team understands that a child's first orthodontic experience can shape their attitude towards dental health for life, which is why we prioritize creating a positive, comfortable environment for every visit. Our practice, led by Dr. Jeff and Dr. Ethan, combines over a century of combined orthodontic experience to deliver exceptional care. 

We are dedicated to offering cutting-edge technology with a compassionate approach that ensures each child receives personalized treatment in a welcoming atmosphere.