As the summer sun begins to set and the anticipation of a new school year rises, many students and parents are preparing for fresh starts and new challenges. It’s also the time of year when many families decide to embark on an orthodontic journey! Traditional braces have long been the go-to, but a contemporary contender is changing the game: Invisalign. At Dillehay Orthodontics, we want you to know how seamless the transition back to school with Invisalign can be!
Why Invisalign?
Invisalign consists of custom-made, clear plastic aligners designed to fit snugly over the teeth. Unlike traditional braces with metal brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, making them a discreet option for straightening teeth.
Patients receive a series of aligners, each designed to adjust teeth position slightly. You wear each aligner for around two weeks. As you progress through the series, your teeth gradually shift into the desired alignment.
For many students, the idea of wearing braces can be a bit intimidating. However, with Invisalign, they can confidently go about their school day without drawing attention to their treatment.
Removable clear aligners allow your child to enjoy their favorite school lunches without food restrictions. They also don’t need to worry about getting food stuck or breaking brackets or wires. Additionally, the smooth plastic design ensures no discomfort from sharp edges. It’s a win-win: students get an effective path to a perfect smile without the challenges often associated with traditional braces!
The Benefits Of Starting Invisalign Before The First Day Of Class
Starting Invisalign treatment during the summer offers several advantages for students. The initial days of adjusting to the aligners can be done at home, allowing your child to become comfortable without the hustle and bustle of school. This period also allows them to establish a routine, ensuring they wear their aligners for the recommended hours. By the time school rolls around, they’ll be well-acquainted with the process, making it easier to manage their treatment amidst classes and extracurriculars.
Plus, beginning their Invisalign journey in the summer means they’re one step closer to a smile they want to show off for yearbook picture day and achieving their dream smile by the end of the school year.
Tips To Help Your Child At School
Navigating the school day with Invisalign requires some planning, but the treatment will hardly disrupt your child’s day if they’re prepared! Here are some tips to help students manage their treatment effectively:
- Pack the Essentials: Equip your child with a small Invisalign case. It’s crucial to keep aligners safe and clean. The case will discourage them from wrapping the aligner in a napkin when they need to remove it during lunchtime – the most common way aligners get accidentally thrown in the trash! Additionally, a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste can be a lifesaver. After meals, a quick brush guarantees the aligners return to clean teeth, maintaining good oral hygiene. Lastly, a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and orthodontic wax to prevent friction and irritation throughout the day are critical for any Invisalign student!
- Stick to the Schedule: Consistency is vital with Invisalign. Encourage your child to wear their aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours a day. A simple reminder on their phone can prompt them to wear the aligners after meals or breaks.
- Help them Handle Peer Curiosity: Curious classmates might have questions about Invisalign. Your child can explain it’s a less noticeable but equally effective alternative to braces. Sharing the benefits can make them less self-conscious and encourage other children to want treatment for their smiles!
- Rely on Dr. JK Dillehay: Don’t forget that your orthodontist and his team are always here to answer your questions and assist throughout the entire process. A quick phone call can eliminate guesswork or uneasiness, and with two Wichita and one Derby locations, we’re always conveniently nearby for checkups or adjustments!
Invisalign And Extra Curricular Activites
With Invisalign, you don’t have to choose between fun and a new smile! One of the standout features of Invisalign is the removability of the aligners, offering unparalleled flexibility for students engaged in extracurricular activities.
Student-athletes and musicians can easily remove their aligners during practices, games, rehearsals, or performances, ensuring optimal performance without the constraints of traditional braces. This also reduces the risk of mouth injuries for children who enjoy contact sports or games, as there are no metal brackets to worry about!
Visit Dillehay Orthodontics For More Information!
As the new school year approaches, it’s the perfect time to consider how Invisalign can offer your child the confidence and freedom they deserve when surrounded by their peers.
At Dillehay Orthodontics, we’re committed to providing personalized care and guidance every step of the way. If you’re curious about Invisalign or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Schedule a complimentary consultation with our excellent teams at our Wichita or Derby locations to discover if Invisalign is right for your child!