A feature-by-feature comparison of aligners and braces is in the Invisalign vs braces guide at MapleRidgeClearAligners.com. This page describes how the decision is actually made for a teenager at myORTHODONTIST Maple Ridge: who is in the room, what we assess, and the questions we ask.
A three-way conversation
The orthodontist, the parent and the teen each have a say. The orthodontist decides what the teeth and bite need; the parent weighs cost, schedule and supervision; the teen decides whether they will actually wear aligners. Teens who choose their own appliance tend to look after it, so once the clinical limits are clear we let them weigh in properly.
What we assess in a teenager
- Which teeth have come in. Baby molars still in place or canines still erupting affect timing and which appliance suits.
- Growth. Teens with a bite problem often have growth left to use, and the plan is timed to it.
- The movements needed. Large rotations, impacted teeth and extraction cases point toward braces.
- Brushing habits. Poor brushing around brackets can leave permanent white marks; aligners are easier to keep clean.
- Sports and music. Contact sports and wind instruments are easier with aligners.
The wear-time conversation
Aligners work at least 20 hours a day or not at all. We ask the teen directly, not only the parent, and we would rather hear an honest "probably not" at the evaluation than discover it six months into treatment. There is no wrong answer, only a wrong appliance for that answer.
A two-week test at home
If you are unsure, have your teen wear a sports mouthguard or an old retainer for two weeks, in and out for meals, for as many hours as possible. If it is in a pocket by day three, braces will save everyone stress. If they manage it, aligners are a reasonable bet.
The middle path
Clear ceramic braces on the upper teeth give much of the discretion teens want from aligners, without the wear-time question. For some teens that is the right compromise.
If things change mid-treatment
If aligner wear slips and teeth stop tracking, we raise it early with both the teen and the parent and go through the options, including a change of approach, before months are lost.
Cost and timeline
For comparable cases at a specialist office, fees and timelines are similar, usually 12 to 24 months for comprehensive teen treatment. The full fee is quoted in writing, insurance is billed directly, and interest-free monthly plans are available. See cost and insurance.
Bring your teen for an evaluation
A complimentary evaluation at myORTHODONTIST Maple Ridge for parent and teen together: a digital scan, candid advice on aligners or braces, and the full fee in writing. No referral needed.