What’s the Best Option Between Clear Aligners and Braces for Teenagers?

What’s the Best Option Between Clear Aligners and Braces for Teenagers?

Clear aligners are all the rage right now and look like the perfect alternative to traditional braces. One group that seems to gravitate towards them is teenagers who may not want to deal with the embarrassment of wearing braces. Clear aligners are almost impossible to detect to someone who doesn’t know them and have many other benefits. There are still some cases where traditional braces might be the best or only option. Let’s take a look at which one you should pick.

How Severe is the Condition?

You should know that while clear aligners are great at what they do, they have some limits. In some extreme cases, you will have no choice but to go with them to fix the issue. Severe malocclusions will not only require braces but also multiple follow-up visits.

If the issue is minor, however, then clear aligners are definitely the best option. These will allow you to correct the issues simply and unobtrusively. There will be no need to visit a doctor, or even leave the comfort of your home.

You have services like ALIGNERCO that that will allow you to get those shipped right to your door. They also have a guide that explains all you need to know before you buy your clear braces. They outline exactly how they work, their limitations, and how much they cost. They also run down some additional benefits they have over traditional braces, so you can make a wise decision.

What’s Your Budget?

You should also know that braces can get very expensive. Metal braces can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000, and the price can go as high as $10,000 if we’re talking about ceramic braces. Clear aligners, on the other hand, can be found for as low as $1,150 and will do just as great of a job as long as the issue is not as severe.

How Responsible Are They?

This is another very important thing you’ll need to assess before you get a teenager braces. While these do not have the same restrictions as traditional braces, you still have to use them with care. For instance, these will need to be removed and the teeth brushed after every single meal. So, if you have to run after them so they brush their teeth before going to bed, you might have an issue.

How Self Conscious are They?

You also have to look at their temperament before you pick braces. If they’re already suffering from self-image issues or have trouble socializing at school, you don’t want to put an additional layer of embarrassment by giving them braces. Bullying wouldn’t exist in a perfect world, but the sad truth is that kids can be extremely cruel and will use anything to bully someone. So, consider how much self-confidence they have before getting braces, and don’t be afraid to talk to them to get a better idea of their mental state.

Clear aligners could be the best option for your child, but it all depends on their condition, temperament, and how much you can spend. Sit down with them and ask their opinion, and make sure that they’re responsible enough to care for them.

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