As your kids grow, you may start to notice they have dental issues or crooked teeth. Braces are the traditional way to resolve these issues and create a perfect smile, but with the rising popularity of Invisalign®, you have another option to consider. Here is a guide to some of the different benefits of each orthodontic option to help you and your child decide.

Braces

When a child gets braces, brackets are glued onto the teeth and connected with a wire. Tightening the wire during appointments with an orthodontist will pull the teeth into alignment over time.

Braces are the traditional way to treat complex dental issues, and they’re fairly quick and effective. Seeing fast improvement can boost your child’s self-confidence, but the process of getting and caring for braces can be difficult. Keeping teeth clean can be tricky and certain hard and sticky foods are off-limits. Still, with periodic adjustments every four to six weeks, your child can expect a gorgeous set of teeth within one to three years.

Invisalign

However, Invisalign is far preferable to many teens and preteens because they’re removable and less noticeable. Made from a clear plastic, Invisalign, as its name suggests, is nearly invisible. With this less invasive orthodontic system, teeth shift gradually into place guided by the device. However, this system won’t be as effective if worn less than the minimum of 20 hours a day.

Invisalign allows the wearer much more freedom in their lifestyle than braces. Since it can and should be removed during meals, the wearer can enjoy all foods. Dental care is also easy when you can remove and clean the Invisalign device separately. With consistent wear, this method of teeth alignment is usually complete within six to 18 months.

When your child is ready for a teeth-straightening system like braces or Invisalign, bring them to the expert dentists at Kapolei Keiki Dental for orthodontic care. They were voted one of the Best Dentists in Hawaii in Honolulu Magazine’s 2018 roundup. Whether providing corrective dentistry or basic dental care, they will make your child feel comfortable and even enjoy their visits. This dental team also offers emergency care for childhood accidents. To set up an appointment, call them today at (808) 944-1020, and visit their website for more information on their services.