Dr. Mark Hodge runs Berkshire Dental Group in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. In addition to his interest in general and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Hodge has a passion for orthodontic treatment using Invisalign technology. Dr. Hodge treats more Invisalign patients than any dentist in Oklahoma and is the state’s only “Elite Invisalign Provider,” the company’s highest recognition award. Elite Providers represent the top 3% of Invisalign providers worldwide. He also specializes in Invisalign for teens.
Teenagers are in the age group most likely to need orthodontic treatment. Their adult teeth are establishing their final position in their mouth. Unfortunately, teeth often emerge in a less than perfect formation, with overcrowding, wide spaces, and overbites. These malformations can create a lifetime of social and dental issues. A national smile survey reveals that:
- 74% of people perceive an attractive smile as important for getting the job of their dreams.
- Over one-third agree that a person with bad teeth gets fewer job promotions.
- 84% of adults perceive having an attractive smile as important for getting a date with Mr. or Ms. Right.
Invisalign Teen is a new product that can straighten teeth without the hassle, discomfort, and embarrassment of traditional braces. Every six weeks, they will receive a series of clear, virtually invisible aligners from Clearly Wireless Orthodontics. Treatment time is typically faster than regular braces, but doesn’t cost any more.
Invisalign Teen clear braces can put an end to bullying for teens who need their teeth transformed. Teenagers with braces are an easy target for bullies, earning them cruel nicknames like “metal mouth,” “brace face,” “railroad tracks,” and “tin grin.” At such a sensitive age, when children are already highly self-conscious, wearing obvious metal braces can just add to the agony. Severe bullying can have repercussions into adulthood, and could dent a child’s confidence so badly that he has a permanently low self-image. However, Invisalign Teen is a system of almost-invisible clear plastic aligners that make adjustments without being seen. So now teenagers can receive the orthodontic treatment they need without undergoing unnecessary suffering.
Benefits of Invisalign for Teens
Invisalign brings an abundance of benefits for teens, including:
- As mentioned above, Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic and are therefore almost invisible. No longer will they feel acutely self-conscious because their teeth are being treated, which dramatically decreases the risk of bullying.
- Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating, so teens won’t have to suffer embarrassing moments of getting food stuck in their braces — or not being able to eat certain foods — when out with friends or at the cafeteria.
- The Invisalign system allows for better oral hygiene, as the aligners can be removed before brushing. This means teens will be less likely to have ongoing problems such as tooth decay or swollen gums.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
