High School Invisalign: Back-to-School Care Tips
July 8, 2024
Being a teen can be difficult, but Invisalign clear aligners makes it a little less rough for those who need their teeth straightened. Instead of walking up and down school halls with colorful dental bands and obvious metal wires, your orthodontic teen’s smile is completely unobstructed – as long as they take good care of their trays! Help them avoid potential high school drama with these back-to-school Invisalign care tips.
Oral Hygiene Chores
Maintaining a strict oral hygiene routine can be tough for adults, let alone teenagers with orthodontic appliances! However, keeping their aligners low-profile is often a powerful motivator for dental cleanliness. Remind your high schooler that if they don’t follow their orthodontist’s care instructions, their peers will probably notice. Here are some additional tips:
- Aid them in brushing on the go with a travel toothbrush and toothpaste
- Floss picks are quicker and easier than classic thread
- Look for simple-to-use products that can clean trays
- Encourage them to rinse with warm water after each meal
Orthodontic Cafeteria Hangups
Eating in the school cafeteria might very well be uncomfortable for your teen. They need to eat though, especially when they’re learning new information all day. These three things can simplify their lunches:
- Pack soft, squishy foods when their teeth are sore
- Mitigate staining foods like berries, curry, and chocolate
- Aligner accessories can assist with removing trays
If you notice your kid is still missing meals, ask them about it. They might just need to talk through their frustrations, and you can help them find solutions. Or you might discover that the root problem isn’t their aligners at all, but a more complicated issue that needs attention.
Why Your Teen Might Not Be Wearing Their Invisalign
Although Invisalign seems plenty convenient to adults, there are several reasons a teenager might disagree. Experiencing early treatment speech difficulties, discomfort, dry mouth, and plain ‘ol self-consciousness can make them less inclined to wear aligners for the necessary 21 hours per day. Fortunately, most of these concerns will fade over time. Until then, here’s what you can do:
- Help them practice speaking with their aligners
- Equip them with pain relievers (and clear usage instructions)
- Keep them hydrated, possibly with flavored water if it’s crystal clear
- Remind them that their teeth will be straightened faster if they wear their aligners as instructed
Going back to high school with a fresh set of Invisalign trays might be difficult for your teen. That’s where you come in! With some parental support and encouragement, you can help your concerned kid adjust to their treatment. Plus, remember that your orthodontist has your back. They can also give you aligner care tips and will make sure your teen’s teeth are straightened smoothly.
About the Author
Dr. Ovy Quintanal is very familiar with having to wear orthodontics – growing up, he had braces not once, but twice! If your teenager feels self-conscious about their smile and their Invisalign, he’ll be able to relate. Dr. Ovy will help them feel more comfortable, so that they can enjoy an efficient treatment process and straighter teeth. To contact his office, call 954-737-2300.
