Is My Child Too Young for Invisalign®?

Many children develop bite and alignment issues that require orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic problems can present rather early, while children still have their baby teeth, but treatment is usually recommended only after they’ve lost all of their baby teeth, usually around age 11 - 12 for most children.

Every child is different, so it’s essential to monitor their development with regular dental exams starting from their first birthday, or around six months after the first tooth erupts.

Our dentists Dr. Nathalie Phaeton, Dr. Ki Youn Kil, and our team at Oasis Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics offer a range of pediatric dentistry and orthodontic services at our office in Falls Church, Virginia. 

Is Invisalign right for your child?

Like traditional braces, Invisalign is designed to treat certain orthodontic problems like an overbite and underbite. The best treatment option for your child depends on a number of factors, including their age and the type and severity of their orthodontic problem. 

In general, Invisalign is usually recommended for teenagers and adults. Our team provides a comprehensive orthodontic assessment for your child, and recommends the best treatment. In some cases, traditional braces may be a better option for your child’s needs.

There are a few other factors that parents should consider when deciding between traditional braces and Invisalign for children.

While Invisalign trays are more discreet and may feel more comfortable, they require a bigger commitment and more work than traditional braces.

You can remove Invisalign trays to eat and brush and floss, but they must be worn consistently (at least 20 to 22 hours per day) in order to work. The system includes a series of trays custom-designed for your child’s bite, which are switched out every few weeks for the next tray in the series.

What does Invisalign treat?

Invisalign is available for common bite and alignment issues like crowding, overbite, crossbite, underbite, and moderate spacing and gaps. 

The system tends to work best on more straightforward and moderate orthodontic issues. Traditional braces work best for more severe and complex dental problems. 

When should my child see the dentist?

It’s never too early to start thinking about and investing in your child’s oral health! In most cases, we recommend scheduling your child’s first visit by their first birthday, or six months after the first tooth erupts.

Despite the fact that primary teeth are temporary, they require the same level of care as your child’s permanent teeth. In addition to cleanings, regular dental exams can track your child’s development and diagnose orthodontic problems as young as age six or seven.

For more information about Invisalign and the pediatric dentistry and orthodontic treatments available at Oasis Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our pediatric dentists or orthodontists.