Clear Aligner Therapy for Teens Philadelphia, PA

Here are six things you should know about clear aligners prior to visiting our office.

1. Teens love clear aligners. If your teen enjoys orthodontic treatment, they are more likely to stay committed throughout the process. Orthodontic care is not completed in a single visit. It is up to your teen to remember to wear aligners, keep up with appointments, and care for their teeth. While braces also require commitment, clear aligners can help teens feel more comfortable and satisfied during treatment. In general, aligners should be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours per day. However, they can be removed to eat, brush, play sports, or take a picture.
2. Easier to use. One of the biggest benefits of clear aligners as an alternative to braces for teens is that they are incredibly easy to use. They function like a removable retainer. Your teen can put the aligners in and take them out as necessary because nothing is permanently fixed in place. As long as your teen brushes after each meal, they can continue eating favorite foods without major diet changes. They simply remove the aligners and place them in a secure case while eating. The same is true for brushing and flossing. This is a far cry from braces, where oral hygiene often requires additional tools and more time.
3. Teeth stay cleaner. Since teeth are easier to keep clean when wearing clear aligners, there is less chance of developing stains or cavities. With braces, food can become stuck around the brackets and wires. These areas can trap bacteria and plaque that may lead to tooth decay. Preventing this often requires special brushes and extra care every day. Proper dental hygiene can be difficult for adults, let alone teens. This is one reason clear aligners are such a popular treatment option. Because the aligners are removed while eating, there is less opportunity for food to get trapped. Since they are also removed for brushing and flossing, oral hygiene remains simple and familiar.
4. Better for self-esteem. While braces are smaller than they used to be, many teens still feel self-conscious about wearing them. Some worry about standing out at school or do not like the idea of a metal smile. At Thomas J Stern DMD PC, we understand. While braces can be highly effective, some teens may prefer a more discreet option. As a parent, it can help to consider a treatment your teen feels confident about, since orthodontic care is a long-term commitment. Clear aligners provide a nearly invisible way to straighten teeth, making it easier for teens to smile with confidence throughout the process. As their smile improves, many teens feel encouraged by the changes they see.
   
5. Treatment time. We can let you know how long treatment may last when you visit our dental office. Generally speaking, many teens wear aligners for around eighteen months, though every case is different. The total treatment time can vary depending on how consistently the aligners are worn. Even though teens may remove them for meals and brushing, leaving them out too long can delay progress and extend treatment. Wearing clear aligners takes commitment and care, but many teens appreciate the convenience and flexibility they offer.
6. Clear aligners are more comfortable. At Thomas J Stern DMD PC, many patients tell us they appreciate how comfortable aligners feel during treatment. Anytime teeth move, there can be some soreness. Whether your teen wears braces or aligners, mild soreness after switching to a new aligner or after an adjustment is normal. The day-to-day comfort is where aligners often stand out. Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires that can rub against the cheeks and lips, causing irritation. It is not uncommon for people with braces to develop sores or cuts inside the mouth. Clear aligners are made from smooth plastic, making them less likely to irritate soft tissues during treatment.