At Varallo Orthodontics, we understand that patients all across Arlington and Burlington want to look their best. Teenagers are not exempt from that. If anything, we’ve found that teens experience more pressure than just about anyone about how they look. We specialize in tweaking and transforming teen teeth. While some teen patients might require braces, Dr. Varallo has applied more sets of Invisalign clear aligners than anyone can count. We recommend Invisalign for teens, as we’ve found that it has fantastic results.
Can Teens Wear Clear Aligners?
Without question! Invisalign clear aligners work well for patients of all ages. Kids, teens, and adults can all benefit from wearing clear aligners. No two smiles are the same. Therefore, all treatment plans will be different. At Varallo Orthodontics, we’ve treated dozens of teens with Invisalign. If you’re a teen or the parent of a teen, we’d love to help you too!
How Does Invisalign Compare With Regular Braces?
Clear aligners are indeed an orthodontic appliance. Their purpose is to straighten teeth over a period of time. Like traditional braces, a patient may have to wear Invisalign clear aligners for an extended period. In those ways, clear aligners are similar to conventional braces. But to call them the same would be inaccurate. Braces, whether metal or clear, have brackets and wires.
Additionally, Dr. Varallo will likely recommend braces to fix a bad bite. You may hear him use the term “malocclusion.” Braces can work better (and, in many cases, more quickly) on bad bites. That said, patients may eventually transition from braces to Invisalign to help them further hone their smile. Nevertheless, clear aligners and braces are distinctly different for that reason.
What Else Can Clear Aligners Do?
Clear aligners work more like a retainer than braces. But since Invisalign clear aligners are removable, you have the bonus of taking them out when you have a meal or get ready to brush and floss.
Dr. Varallo designs sets of customized acrylic clear aligners for each specific set of teeth. Each aligner is composed of smooth, sleek, and virtually unseeable plastic. Varallo Orthodontics uses a digital scanner to analyze your bite, leading to a tailored aligner. We do all this without requiring yucky trays and impressions. Dr. Varallo then generates a unique plan for your teeth. Next, you’ll receive your complete set of aligners a few weeks later. The entire clear aligner treatment process varies depending on the complexity of a patient’s treatment.
Are Clear Aligners Only for Minor Cases?
Braces still seem like the best option to many, but the truth is that Invisalign works just as well in nearly all orthodontic cases. In some situations, it’s an even better treatment than traditional braces. If you’re wondering if it will work for you, the answer is probably yes – ask!
Are Clear Aligners Hard to Clean?
Not at all! Aligners are just as easy to clean as your teeth. Within a few tries, you’ll know exactly how to clean your Invisalign clear aligner. Make sure that whatever you’re using to clean your aligner is designed for that purpose. Dr. Varallo can advise you of specific cleaners to use. Soak your aligner in aligner cleaning solution for about 20 minutes a day. We recommend brushing aligners with toothbrushes and toothpaste.
What About Price?
Varallo Orthodontics understands budget constraints. In any circumstance, patients come first. Dr. Varallo will only offer treatment plans a patient will actually benefit from. We don’t believe in surprise charges or hidden fees.
With that in mind, sometimes people are intimidated by anything described as “state-of-the-art.” To many folks, that’s just another word for “expensive.” Dr. Varallo and our staff will be happy to discuss flexible payments options.
Will My Insurance Cover Invisalign?
Suppose your insurance provider covers dental and orthodontic interventions. In that case, you can use it to help with either Invisalign or regular braces. The team at Varallo Orthodontics in Arlington and Burlington works with most Massachusetts insurance companies. We’ll check and double-check any benefits you’re entitled to. Furthermore, we’re happy to talk with you about a payment plan that fits your budget.
Come Visit Us Today
More often than not, your teen’s teeth will benefit tremendously from Invisalign. You’ll notice a difference after only a few months. Invisalign is easy to use and simple to care for and maintain. The price isn’t much different from traditional metal braces. Invest in your teen’s smile today by scheduling a free consult at Varallo Orthodontics. Go here to schedule.