Deciding between Invisalign® and braces for your child is an important choice you must make as a parent. Both options can be effective, but they have different features. This guide helps you understand how Invisalign® and braces compare for kids, so you can make the best decision for your child.
Understanding Braces and Invisalign®
Traditional braces use metal brackets that are glued to each tooth. Thin wires connect the brackets and gently move the teeth over time. Your child’s orthodontist adjusts the wires during regular appointments to help guide the teeth into better positions.
Invisalign® uses a series of clear plastic aligners made specifically for your child’s mouth. Each set of aligners shifts the teeth a little bit before moving to the next set. The aligners are nearly invisible, which many older kids and teens prefer for social reasons.
Factors That Will Affect Your Decision
Age
Kids need to have most of their permanent teeth before starting Invisalign®. This usually happens around age 12 or 13. Braces can be used for younger kids, even if they still have some baby teeth.
Some children benefit from early treatment using a two-phase approach. In the first phase, braces or other tools may guide jaw growth. The second phase—after the permanent teeth come in—can use either braces or Invisalign®.
Effectiveness
Braces are better for treating more complex dental issues. The brackets and wires give orthodontists more control over how teeth move. Braces can fix severe crowding, major bite problems, rotated teeth, and vertical misalignment.
Invisalign® works well for milder issues. Clear aligners can fix light crowding, small bite problems, mild rotations, and gaps between teeth.
During your child’s initial visit, the orthodontist will check their teeth and recommend the option that works best.
Treatment Time
How long treatment takes depends on your child’s specific needs. Braces usually take 18 to 24 months. Your child will visit the orthodontist every four to six weeks for adjustments.
Invisalign® can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months, depending on how complex the case is. Your child changes to a new set of aligners every one to two weeks and sees the orthodontist every 8 to 10 weeks.
Daily Care and Maintenance
Kids with braces need to brush carefully after eating. Special brushes and flossers help remove food caught around the brackets and wires. They also need to avoid certain foods that could damage the braces.
Kids using Invisalign® must remove their aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. They need to clean the aligners daily with a special solution or mild soap and water. To be effective, the aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day.
Comfort Level
Many kids find Invisalign® more comfortable than braces. Both treatments apply pressure to the teeth, but braces can cause irritation from the metal brackets and wires. Adjustments can also lead to soreness or occasional breakage.
Invisalign® aligners have smooth edges that don’t rub against the cheeks and lips. Kids might still feel discomfort with each new aligner, but it’s usually mild and temporary.
Sports and Activities
For active kids who play sports, Invisalign® has some advantages. They can remove the aligners during practice or games, then put them back in afterward. With braces, kids need to wear special mouthguards to protect both their braces and teeth.
Kids who play wind instruments—like the flute, trumpet, or clarinet—may find braces challenging at first. They usually need time to adjust. With Invisalign®, they can remove the aligners briefly during practice and performances.
Cost
Costs vary depending on where you live and how complex your child’s case is. Braces typically cost between $3,000 and $7,000 for full treatment. Invisalign® usually ranges from $3,500 to $8,000, so it can be a bit more expensive.
Insurance coverage also varies. Some states require dental insurance to cover braces, but not all do. If you’re unsure about your benefits, our team at Rio Dental & Orthodontics can help you understand your options.
We accept most insurance plans at all of our locations. At our Fort Worth office, we also accept Medicaid and CHIP. Financing is available through CareCredit, with little to no interest and flexible payment plans.
Compliance
Braces stay on the teeth, so they’re always working and don’t rely on the child to remember anything. Invisalign® aligners, on the other hand, require more responsibility. Kids need to wear them most of the day, take them out before meals, clean them regularly, and keep track of where they are. For this reason, Invisalign® may work better for older children who will remember to take care of their aligners.
Making the Best Choice for Your Child
Ready to explore orthodontic options for your child? Schedule an appointment at Rio Dental & Orthodontics today. Our team will help you find the treatment plan that’s right for your child’s smile.
