Here at Sims Orthodontics, we recently had a parent ask us whether Invisalign or braces is a better option for their 10 year old. Every child is different so while one child may benefit from Invisalign, another may be better off going the Invisalign route. Here are some things to consider when trying to decide between Invisalign and braces for your child.

Visibility

Since Invisalign aligners are clear, they can allow your child to straighten their teeth in a discreet way. Braces, on the other hand, are very visible and can be customized with different color ties at every adjustment appointment. Your child may want to make a fashion statement by wearing metal braces or prefer the clear, less-obvious look that comes with Invisalign. Our Raleigh Family Dental friends, Wells Family Dental Group, state that many of their patients prefer Invisalign because it is “invisible.”

Comfort

The reality is that most children like the comfort that Invisalign offers. With Invisalign, they don’t have to worry about any metal in their mouth or wires poking their lips and cheeks. Invisalign does take some time to get used to so it may not feel 100% comfortable at first.

Convenience

If your child is busy with school, sports, and extracurricular activities, Invisalign may make more sense for them because of its convenience. It doesn’t require as many appointments and can give your child the chance to straighten their teeth while removing their aligners for cleaning their teeth and enjoying meals.

Responsibility

Invisalign aligners must be in your child’s mouth for at least 22 hours a day to deliver optimal results. If you believe your child is not responsible enough to keep their aligners in for the majority of the day, they should probably opt for traditional metal braces.

Schedule an Appointment at Sims Orthodontics

Dr. Sims can help you choose between Invisalign and braces for your child. Call us at 850-477-7715 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you!