I work as a clerical assistant in a pediatric dental office, and I am commonly surprised by the number of children who are scared of the dentist. Many kids think that cleanings will be painful, and they believe they will be scolded for eating sugary foods. Children are also extremely frightful of the noises made by the water spraying tools and the suction devices. As adults, we know that dental cleanings are easy and free of pain. We need to impart this knowledge to our children so they know not to fear the dentist. I have provided blogs that will help you speak with your child about dental care. Good communication, trips to your own dentist, and online videos can assist you. So will good brushing techniques that will make your child proud to see the dentist. Enjoy my articles so you can help your child build oral care confidence.
Alfred Kelley
As a parent, you want the best for your teen, including a confident smile. If your child needs orthodontic treatment, Invisalign can be an excellent option. If you're considering Invisalign for your teen, there are some important steps to follow to ensure a successful treatment journey.
Find an Experienced Invisalign Provider
The first step in getting Invisalign for your teen is to find a reputable and experienced Invisalign provider. Look for a dentist or orthodontist who has completed the necessary training and has a track record of successful Invisalign cases. They will be able to assess your teen's dental condition and provide expert guidance throughout the treatment process.
Schedule a Consultation
Once you have found a suitable provider, schedule a consultation to discuss your teen's orthodontic needs and determine if they are a good candidate for Invisalign. During this appointment, the dentist or orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination, which may include taking X-rays, impressions, and photographs of your teen's teeth.
Creating a Custom Treatment Plan
Based on the examination results, the Invisalign provider will create a custom treatment plan for your teen. This plan will outline the expected duration of the treatment, the number of aligners needed, and the projected movement of the teeth. The provider will also discuss the cost of treatment and any insurance or financing options available.
Starting the Treatment Process
Once you and your teen are satisfied with the treatment plan, the next step is to begin the Invisalign treatment process. The provider will take new impressions of your teen's teeth, which will be used to create a series of custom-made aligners. These aligners are made of a clear and smooth plastic material that is virtually invisible when worn.
Wearing and Caring for the Aligners
Your teen will need to wear their Invisalign aligners for the majority of the day, removing them only when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. It is essential to follow these guidelines to ensure optimal results. Additionally, your teen should clean their aligners regularly using a gentle cleansing solution or the Invisalign cleaning system provided by the dentist.
Completion of Treatment and Retention Phase
Once your teen's teeth have achieved the desired alignment, the active Invisalign treatment will be completed. However, it is crucial to follow through with the retention phase to maintain the results. Your teen will be provided with a retainer to wear at night, ensuring that their teeth remain in their new positions.
Contact an Invisalign provider for more information.