Is My Child a Candidate for Clear Orthodontic Aligners?

By: Hillside Dental
Posted on: July 25, 2023

Orthodontic treatment can straighten crooked or misaligned teeth. Traditional braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment for children. However, clear orthodontic aligners are quickly catching up as older children opt for more discreet dental restoration.

Dentists usually recommend removable aligners for adults, but some children can qualify for the treatment. Find out if your child is a candidate.

They Have Permanent Teeth

If your child has all their permanent teeth, they can qualify for clear orthodontic aligners. Dental specialists do not recommend clear aligners for children who still have some of their baby teeth. Your child’s jaw should have stopped growing before they get the aligners. The dentist will examine your child’s teeth to determine if the treatment is ideal. Children who qualify for clear aligners are usually in their late teens.

The Severity of Dental Problems

The type of dental problem your child has will determine whether or not they are a good candidate for clear orthodontic aligners. Severe orthodontic problems require traditional braces or other intense orthodontic devices. In some rarer cases, the child may require surgery.

Aligners are ideal for children with protruding teeth, gaps between the teeth, and mild overbites and underbites. Specialists also recommend the aligners for mildly crooked and too many teeth.

They Must Be Responsible

Patients must wear the aligners for 22 hours daily to be effective. They remove them for meals and to clean their teeth. Leaving them off for longer will affect the results. To qualify for the alignment option, your child must commit to following the rules. They also need to maintain good oral hygiene throughout the treatment. It means brushing their teeth after every meal before putting back the aligners.

Feelings of Self-consciousness

If your child is concerned about their appearance, they might benefit from clear ortho. Studies show that many children suffer from low self-esteem due to wearing braces. The reason most people choose this treatment is for the clear aligners.

Unlike traditional metal braces, they are almost invisible, which means they will not be evident when smiling or in photos. It makes them popular for teens who want to avoid bullying due to their appearance.

Schedule a Dental Exam

The dentist will help determine if your child can benefit from removable clear aligners. This treatment involves multiple sets of retainers. Changing each set after every week or two helps move the teeth to the desired position.

Consider the child’s dental condition, personality, and behavior when deciding. Fortunately, many dental issues can be corrected using the aligners. The orthodontist will recommend the best treatment plan for your child.

Is your child ready to remove their aligners before meals and snacks and to maintain excellent oral hygiene? Talk to your child about the responsibility that comes with clear orthodontic aligner treatment before you agree to the option. They should know that failing to wear the aligners as instructed will prolong the treatment.

A benefit of the removable aligners is your child will not have to change their diet. You may need to keep reminding your child to wear their aligner. Many children tend to leave out their aligners, especially when a new tray causes discomfort.

For more on whether your child is a candidate for clear orthodontic aligners, contact Hillside Dental at our Las Vegas, Nevada office. Call (702) 666-8584 or (702) 895-7799 to schedule an appointment today.