Trusted Providers in Boise & Meridian, Idaho
Most children should see an orthodontist by age 7, but some may not start orthodontic treatment until later. For children at least 14 years old, an alternative to traditional metal braces may appeal more to you as a parent and your teen.
Invisalign offers an excellent way to correct bite issues, misalignment, spacing or gaps, and more. The best part? Your child can do this discreetly without drawing unneeded attention. This added level of confidence can help your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile by graduation. Dr. Davis, a certified and experienced Invisalign provider at Dentistry for Children, is excited to serve patients.
About Invisalign
Invisalign® corrects misalignment and bite issues caused by early tooth loss and spacing, genetics, poor dental hygiene, or tooth damage/injury. This treatment uses a series of clear aligners customized to your child’s unique dental needs. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign doesn’t use metal brackets, pokey arch-wires, rubber bands, or metal retainers, making it a comfortable alternative for your teen.
How it Works
After a regular dental visit and exam, our dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment. We’ll discuss the possibility of Invisalign. Our office doesn’t recommend Invisalign for patients younger than 14, as this system requires discipline for success. During this discussion, we invite you to ask any questions about this treatment. If you decide to move forward, here’s what to expect:
Step 1 – Digital X-Rays and Dental Impressions Are Taken
We’ll take an updated series of digital x-rays and impressions of your child’s teeth. This gives our dentist a complete picture of your child’s entire mouth and current bite. The dentist will use these images with a digital program to predict how the teeth will move with each set of clear aligners. As a parent, you’ll see how quickly and successfully Invisalign can correct bite and misalignment issues.
Step 2 – The Aligners are Created
We’ll send the information and images from the x-rays and impressions to a certified Invisalign facility. They’ll create the customized aligners from medical-grade plastic to fit your teen comfortably.
Step 3 – Alignment Series and Check-Ups
We replace aligners every two weeks as the teeth begin to shift rapidly. Each series of aligners will move the teeth closer to the ultimate goal. Our dentist will recommend a treatment check-up every 6 weeks or so. You’ll come to our dental office, and we’ll check your progress. If necessary, we’ll give you your next set of aligners unless you’ve already received them.
Step 4 – Be Disciplined
Invisalign is an investment, and as a parent, you want to ensure your teen uses this system correctly for a successful outcome. This is why we recommend your child be at least 14 years old. While your child can remove these aligners to eat, speak, or brush/floss, we recommend wearing them at least 22 hours every day.
Why Choose Invisalign?
- Discreet – Invisalign allows teenagers, college students, and business professionals to correct bite and misalignment discreetly and confidently.
- Easy to Eat – It’s easy to consume most foods while using the Invisalign system. Simply remove your aligners during a meal and replace them after you finish. We recommend brushing before putting the aligners back in.
- Simple Care & Maintenance – With Invisalign, you can brush and floss your teeth normally. You don’t need special dental tools like water picks or floss threaders.
- You’re In Control – While we don’t recommend removing the aligners for too long, you can take them out to speak, eat, or for pictures or special moments.
- Quick Results – The average treatment plan for patients on Invisalign is less than 1 year! For teens with severe misalignment or bite issues, it’s important to discuss this with your dentist. Metal braces may be more appropriate depending on your needs.
Schedule a Consultation for Invisalign in Boise or Meridian, ID
If you or your teen are ready to improve their confidence and fix their dental discomfort, schedule an appointment with our experienced and caring Invisalign dentist in Boise, ID! We have two convenient locations in Boise and Meridian.