With the uprise in demands for esthetic dentistry, it comes as no shock that braces are also in great demand nowadays. Braces are capable of giving you that perfect smile you dream of. Whether your teeth are crowded, crooked, spaced or otherwise mal-aligned, only braces are capable of putting them in their proper places.
Unfortunately, braces are very ugly to behold. In fact, most people – especially adults – decide not to go forward with their treatment solely because of how they would look during the treatment period. Considering that the treatment period could last up to 2 years, their situation is understandable. For that reason, newer technologies in braces have been directed towards one particular aim … and that is improving their looks.
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What are the available esthetic options?
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Clear Braces:
These are the same as metallic braces. The only difference is that the brackets are made of clear ceramic material rather than metal. The wires are also treated with a white coating, improving the overall appearance.
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Lingual Braces:
These are bound to the inner rather than the surface of the teeth. They are practically invisible and offer a great improvement of appearance. However, they could be quite an irritation to the tongue, not to mention quite costly.
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Invisalign:
One of the best available options on the market today. No more brackets or wires. Instead, it is a system of plastic transparent molds that fit the outer surface of the teeth. These molds apply pressure in a certain way, causing the teeth to move.
In most cases, Invisalign would be the right option. But in some cases – such as young age – Invisalign would not work.
What is the youngest age for Invisalign?
The only requirement for Invisalign is that all the baby teeth have been shed, and permanent teeth have appeared in the mouth. This usually happens by the age of 12 years. So basically, 12 years is the youngest age for Invisalign to work. Invisalign depends on the size and position of the teeth to work. Baby teeth are simply too small and too weak to move safely, so we have to wait for the stronger permanent teeth to fully appear in the mouth.
Another issue to consider is the growth and development of the jaws. Traditional braces take into consideration how the jaws grow into their full size, and how that would later affect the position of the teeth. This led to the evolution of a new system .. that is Invisalign teen.
What is Invisalign teen?
A modified version of traditional Invisalign. It uses the same principle of pressure application through the plastic molds but takes into consideration the change in the position of the teeth and the growth of bones during the growth spurt period. If that issue was not taken into consideration, you may end up with unsatisfactory results at the end of your treatment period.
So if you are wondering what is the youngest age for Invisalign, the answer is .. as young as your child may be for all his permanent teeth to appear, which is about 12 years. If you like to learn more, Dr. Pezoldt and the team at Pezoldt orthodontics are ready to answer all your concerns. Contact us on 209 524-8381 for Modesto office, and 209 847 7014 for Oakdale office. Our team is there for you to answer any questions, or schedule a complimentary consultation appointment.
1 (209) 524-8381
Modesto Office