INVISALIGN® TEEN
Specifically designed for an adolescent patient’s unique orthodontic needs and lifestyle.
Invisalign® Teen
One of the major reasons why adolescents and teenagers are so concerned about orthodontic treatment is because traditional techniques can have a significant effect on their appearance. The good news is, orthodontics has come a long way from the days of metal brackets and wires prominently affixed to the teeth. One of the most popular solutions for teenagers who want to have a more discreet orthodontic treatment is Invisalign® Teen. This system of clear aligners, available from our board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Pat Cuozzo, and the team here at Cuozzo Orthodontic Specialists, can effectively straighten the teeth and create a more beautiful smile without many of the drawbacks associated with metal braces.
Benefits of Invisalign® Teen
Invisalign® Teen
vs. Braces
Both Invisalign® Teen and traditional braces ultimately share the same goal; however, it’s how they achieve that goal which makes these two treatments quite distinct from one another. Like braces, Invisalign® Teen can shift the teeth into a more desirable position and correct common bite irregularities; but, it accomplishes these objectives in a very different way. Braces require the placement of wires and brackets on the teeth to correct misalignment, crowding, or bite issues, whereas Invisalign® Teen utilizes clear plastic aligners that can be easily removed by the patient. Invisalign® Teen’s unique design and its virtual invisibility on the teeth often make it a very popular alternative for teenagers and adolescent patients who are particularly self-conscious about their appearance in school pictures and social events. In addition, Invisalign® Teen is known to provide enhanced comfort when compared with traditional braces, and typically requires less follow-up visits.
With the many advantages of Invisalign® Teen, it’s important to remember that braces offer a number of benefits, as well. Some patients may have more severe orthodontic concerns that make braces the better treatment option. In those cases, there are advanced types of braces available that make them less noticeable on the teeth, helping individuals address their orthodontic needs with some level of discretion. During the initial consultation, our orthodontist can discuss the best option for each patient’s individual needs and help decide whether Invisalign® Teen or traditional braces can create the optimal results.
How Does the Invisalign® Teen Treatment Process Work?
One of our experienced orthodontists will meet with you and your child for an initial consultation and a comprehensive oral evaluation. Patients who have mild to moderate teeth alignment issues are typically good candidates for Invisalign® Teen; however, those with severe crowding and spacing issues may benefit from an alternative (yet discreet) orthodontic treatment available from our practice. Our doctor will talk with you about all of your options. If Invisalign® Teen is an ideal solution, we will take a digital scan of the teeth and the Invisalign® lab will create a series of customized aligner trays. Each new set of trays has a slight modification from the previous trays in the series, which helps the teeth gradually move into the desired position over time. Each set of trays is worn for one week.
It’s important to wear the aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours each day. While the total treatment time varies from patient to patient, most patients require only 9 to 18 months for optimal results. Periodic follow-up appointments will be necessary to ensure that the treatment process is running smoothly; however, patients will likely not need to come in for a check-up as often as they would with more traditional orthodontic techniques. At the end of Invisalign® treatment, a retainer will be made for nighttime wear to guard against relapse.
How Much Does Invisalign® Teen Cost?
The cost of Invisalign® Teen typically ranges from $5,500 to $7500. Since every patient’s needs are different and the treatment is customized for each individual, the total price of Invisalign® Teen is typically not the same for everyone. Factors such as the severity of the orthodontic concerns, the estimated length of treatment time, and the number of Invisalign® Teen aligners that will be required to achieve the best results will be taken into account.
Once the customized treatment plan has been developed, a member of our team at Cuozzo Orthodontic Specialists will calculate an overall cost estimate and talk with you about payment options. Since many dental insurance plans include some level of coverage for orthodontics, Invisalign® Teen may be a covered benefit under your policy. Our team can assist you with contacting your insurance provider to find out if coverage is offered for this treatment. Our practice also accepts many convenient forms of payment, and we work with CareCredit®, a financing agency that offers qualified applicants an array of affordable monthly payment plans.