Can a Teenager Use Invisalign?

I have a teenager who needs braces. She is very insecure about pretty much everything. I already have trouble getting her to talk to anyone. I’m afraid with metal braces she’ll turn more inward. I want to help her become confident. She has so much to offer. I think having the invisible braces will help. Is that possible for someone who is 16? Is it silly to think that a type of braces will make a difference?

Lizzie

Dear Lizzie,

First, I am going to say that you are not being silly. In fact, it is the act of a caring parent to look for ways to help our children when they are struggling. I can see your love in your question.

There is an interesting book I recently heard about Psycho Cybernetics, even though it was written in the 1960s about how even a small cosmetic procedure will change people’s personalities. They become more confident. I see that often with patients who become more confident and smile more because of teeth whitening.

Having a smile your daughter is proud of can help her feel better about her smile and as a result she shares it more. Your concern that traditional braces may make her feel worse is valid. The good news is that Invisalign can work for teenagers.

Something to be aware of before making your decision is that Invisalign is removable. That means it will take patient compliance. Traditional braces are bonded onto her teeth. She can’t remove them. That is not the case with Invisalign. For it to work, she needs to have them in about 22 hours a day. She can take them out to eat and take care of her oral hygiene. But then she has to put them back in.

You know your daughter better than anyone. If you think she can do that without losing them, she may be a good candidate for Invisalign.

This blog is brought to you by Naples Dentist Dr. Andrea Cameron.