Traditional Braces vs. Invisalign: Choosing the Right Option for Your Child

Deciding between traditional braces and Invisalign for your child may not be as straightforward as you’d hoped. While traditional braces have been the main orthodontic option for decades, Invisalign offers a more modern, less noticeable option. Both child orthodontic options have their own pros and cons, so it’s crucial to weigh them up and choose the one that best suits your child’s needs and lifestyle.

Comparing Traditional Braces vs. Invisalign for Your Child

Effectiveness

If your child has more complex orthodontic issues, they might have to go for traditional braces since they excel at treating a wide range of dental issues, including severe crowding, misalignment, and bite problems. Invisalign is just as effective for adjustments and dental issues, but it’s typically used for mild to moderate Issues.

Aesthetic Concerns

Your child may feel more self-conscious with traditional braces as the wire brackets are clearly visible. In comparison, Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic, making them far less noticeable than traditional braces. If your child prefers not to draw any attention to their orthodontic device, going with Invisalign might be the better option.

Comfort

Traditional braces have metal brackets and wires that often irritate the mouth and gums, leading to discomfort. Especially after an adjustment session, your child may feel more discomfort for a day or two. In contrast, Invisalign has a smooth plastic surface that’s significantly more comfortable than metal braces, reducing the chance of any irritation to the cheeks and gums.

Since your child has to wear braces or Invisalign for so many hours each day, prioritizing their comfort is essential and will help make the entire process easier for them.

Dietary Restrictions

With braces, your child will need to avoid certain foods like sticky candies, hard foods, and gum. Such dietary restrictions can be difficult for them to manage, especially when they’re at school without a parent or adult to remind them. On the other hand, Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating, so there isn’t any specific dietary restriction to worry about.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Your child will need to adopt diligent oral hygiene practices with traditional braces to prevent plaque buildup and cavities. This can be hard for younger kids to handle.

Invisalign aligners need to be rinsed, brushed, and soaked. While this may be just as challenging for children, parents can more easily help with the maintenance and cleaning since the aligners are removable.

Frequency of Visits

Braces often require more frequent visits every 8-10 weeks, and parents should be prepared for more potential emergency appointments due to issues like broken brackets. In comparison, Invisalign generally involves fewer visits every 12 weeks and shorter appointment times, with fewer emergency visits.

If your child doesn’t like visiting the orthodontist too frequently or having to keep still during appointments, you might want to consider Invisalign for a more fuss-free and child-friendly option in this regard.

Responsibility of the Child

Since braces are not removable, you don’t have to worry about your child forgetting to wear them or losing them. This is significantly different with Invisalign. Since the aligners are removable, the effectiveness of Invisalign heavily relies on whether your child wears them for the recommended 22 hours a day. Consider whether your child is responsible enough to handle the wearing and removing of their Invisalign aligners each day.

Age

Younger children usually adapt well to braces, as their teeth and jaws are still developing. Moreover, braces are robust enough to handle the wear and tear of active play and sports.

Invisalign is typically recommended for teenagers and older children whose adult teeth have all come in. Younger kids may not be ideal candidates as the aligners are removable and require responsibility.

Consult Our Orthodontist to Make the Right Choice for Your Child

Your child might prefer Invisalign for its discreet appearance and comfort. On the other hand, braces do provide an effective alternative for effective and more complex adjustments. Ultimately, you’ll have to consult our orthodontist to decide which is the more suitable and effective option for your child’s specific orthodontic concerns. However, we’ll always make a professional recommendation while taking your child’s preferences into consideration. Call us today to book a consultation!

Dr. Alan Wong

Dr. Alan Wong is a dedicated orthodontist who loves helping his patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. He is committed to providing gentle, effective care in a patient-centered environment. Dr. Wong is also a strong believer in continuing education, so he can provide his patients with the latest and greatest treatment options.