What are Clear Aligners for Children?
Clear aligners are an orthodontic treatment option that may be appropriate for some children, depending on their stage of dental development and specific orthodontic needs.
These removable, custom-made trays fit closely over your child’s teeth and are designed to apply gentle, controlled pressure over time. Each aligner is worn for a specific period before being swapped out for the next one in the series, allowing teeth to shift gradually and in a planned sequence.
Most children requiring orthodontic treatment start using clear aligners between the ages of 12 and 14, once all their permanent teeth have come in.
For children under the age of 12, clear aligners are used selectively, and only when appropriate. In certain cases, they may be used to help address specific problems such as spacing issues, crossbites, or functional bite challenges, or to create space for incoming adult teeth. The decision to use aligners at this early stage is always based on careful evaluation of your child’s individual needs.
Consultations & Monitoring for Children
Children should visit the orthodontist for the first time around the age of seven for an orthodontic consultation. This visit will give us an opportunity to determine if orthodontic treatment like Invisalign First, Spark Junior or Damon™ braces is needed.
The Clear Aligners Process at Surrideo Orthodontics
Clear aligners can be used to correct misalignments of the teeth and jaw by exerting gentle and consistent pressure over an extended period.
Treatment consists of a series of custom-made, clear aligners. Aligners must be worn in the correct order. Each aligner plays a specific role and is then replaced with the next one until the desired results are achieved.
How are Clear Aligners for Kids Different?
Spark Junior and Invisalign First are tailored to guide jaw development and to help emerging adult teeth grow in as straight as possible, rather than straightening fully erupted teeth.
Clear aligners for children include an eruption compensation feature that allows the aligners to accommodate baby teeth falling out and adult teeth growing in.
Here are a few features of clear aligners that make them a great choice for kids:
- No friction from metal brackets.
- Removable aligners that make it easier to maintain thorough oral hygiene.
- None of the dietary restrictions common with braces. Simply remove aligners to eat.
- Discreet design that is barely noticeable for more self-conscious kids.