What is the Difference Between Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen®?
In general, Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen® are designed to provide the same benefits to both adults and adolescents alike. Using a series of clear plastic aligners, Invisalign® can bring the teeth into a straighter position and correct a number of common orthodontic concerns while providing a more discreet alternative to traditional braces. The primary difference between Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen® is that the latter is specifically designed with the developmental needs of adolescents in mind.
Teenagers’ jaws are often still in the growth stage. Invisalign Teen® takes this into account, and the customized teeth aligners are made to accommodate their individual needs. Another key difference between Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen® involves a monitoring process: Invisalign Teen® has unique indicators on each tray to help our orthodontics team measure how much time the tray has been worn on the teeth. It’s not uncommon for teens and adolescents to take out their aligners and forget to put them back in, so the monitoring system for Invisalign Teen® allows us ensure the trays are being worn as often as possible (at least 22 hours each day is generally recommended). Strict adherence to the Invisalign Teen® treatment regimen is very important to its success, and this system can help patients maintain good habits when it comes to keeping their aligners in place throughout most of the day.
If you would like to learn more about Invisalign® or Invisalign Teen®, please contact our orthodontist today. We will be happy to answer your questions or assist you with scheduling a consultation.
