Clear Aligners for Children & Teens

Straighten Their Smile Discreetly

Clear aligners are custom-made, transparent orthodontic devices designed to gradually guide teeth into proper alignment without the need for traditional metal braces. These removable trays fit snugly over the teeth, applying precise, consistent pressure to achieve gradual, controlled tooth movement. They are crafted using advanced 3D scanning and computer-aided design, ensuring each aligner in the series makes small, carefully planned adjustments to the teeth.

Popular systems for younger patients with milk teeth include Invisalign First and Angel Kid. These aligner options are specifically designed for growing children, addressing the unique orthodontic challenges they face as their jaws and teeth develop. Both systems aim to create space for emerging permanent teeth, correct early bite issues, and guide jaw growth, potentially reducing the need for more invasive treatments later in life.

Additionally, some aligners come equipped with mandibular advancement features. These are designed to encourage growth of the lower jaw while simultaneously aligning the teeth. This option can be particularly beneficial for young patients who need both dental correction and guidance in jaw development.

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear aligners are most effective for patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. However, more complex cases, such as severe crowding or jaw misalignment, may still require traditional braces. A consultation with Dr Manar will help determine the best approach based on each child’s unique dental needs.

Clear aligners can be used for both Phase 1 (early interceptive) treatment in younger children (around ages 6-10, often using systems like Invisalign First) and comprehensive treatment for teens whose permanent teeth have mostly erupted. Dr. Manar can assess readiness at any age.

For optimal results, aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours per day. They should only be removed for eating, drinking anything other than plain water, brushing, and flossing. Consistent wear is key to treatment success.

It’s possible, but we provide guidance on responsible aligner care. Each set comes with a protective case. Some systems also offer replacement aligners (check specific plan details). Establishing a good routine for removing and storing them helps prevent loss.

Aligners should be rinsed each time they are removed and cleaned gently with a soft toothbrush and clear soap or a specialised aligner cleaner. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic. Good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing teeth before reinserting aligners) is also crucial.

Absolutely! Clear aligners are easily removable for contact sports (allowing a mouthguard to be worn) or playing wind instruments if needed, although many activities can be done with them in. They often provide more comfort during sports than traditional braces.

Angel Kid and Invisalign First aligners are clear aligner options for children, focusing on early intervention and jaw development. They are designed to manage a wide range of orthodontic concerns, including:

  • Early crowding and spacing
  • Overbite and underbite correction
  • Arch expansion to guide jaw growth
  • Bite alignment issues
  • Correcting functional crossbite
    Angel Kid aligners offer a similar early intervention approach to Invisalign First, providing a flexible, comfortable alternative to traditional braces for young patients.

Mandibular advancement is a technique used to correct lower jaw positioning in growing children and teenagers. This approach can help address:

  • Underdeveloped lower jaw (retrognathia)
  • Class II malocclusions (where the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth)
  • Improving facial profile and jaw alignment
    Clear aligners, like the Invisalign Teen with mandibular advancement features, can guide the lower jaw forward using integrated precision wings, promoting proper jaw growth while aligning the teeth. This can reduce the need for more invasive treatments like headgear or functional appliances.