When most people think about braces, they picture middle schoolers with metal brackets and wires—but early orthodontic treatment is often recommended long before the teenage years. For kids who need guidance while their smiles are still developing, there’s a new solution that offers flexibility, comfort, and confidence: Invisalign First.
Specifically designed for growing children, Invisalign First clear aligners offer a modern alternative to traditional expanders and braces. If you’re a parent considering early orthodontic care, here’s what you need to know about why Invisalign First might be the right choice.
What Is Invisalign First?
Invisalign First is a version of Invisalign designed for kids ages 6–10 who are in the early mixed dentition phase (when baby and permanent teeth are present). This treatment is part of what orthodontists refer to as Phase 1 orthodontics, which focuses on guiding jaw and dental development at an early age to prevent more complex issues later on.
Instead of using bulky expanders or traditional braces, Invisalign First uses clear, removable aligners that gently guide teeth into better positions while allowing space for permanent teeth to erupt correctly.
Why Early Orthodontic Treatment Matters
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, the jaw and dental arches are still growing, which makes it an ideal time to identify and correct issues like:
- Crowding or spacing problems
- Narrow dental arches
- Crossbites or overbites
- Protruding front teeth
- Harmful habits like thumb-sucking
Treating these concerns early can reduce the need for more invasive treatment later, such as extractions, jaw surgery, or longer courses of braces as teens.
How Invisalign First Works
Just like with Invisalign for teens and adults, Invisalign First uses a series of custom-designed clear aligners that apply gentle pressure to shift the teeth and guide jaw development. The process starts with a digital scan of your child’s mouth, which is used to create a treatment plan and aligners made specifically for their unique smile.
The aligners are worn 20–22 hours per day, removed only for eating, brushing, and flossing. Your child will receive new sets of aligners every one to two weeks as their teeth gradually move into better alignment.
Benefits of Invisalign First for Kids
Parents often wonder if aligners can really work for younger children—and the answer is a strong yes. Invisalign First was designed with kids’ needs in mind, offering benefits that make it a smart choice for both families and smiles in development.
1. Comfortable and Gentle
The aligners are made from smooth, flexible plastic that won’t poke or irritate cheeks and gums like brackets and wires sometimes do.
2. Easy to Clean
Because they’re removable, kids can brush and floss normally—no need for special tools or lengthy routines.
3. No Food Restrictions
With traditional braces, hard and sticky foods are off-limits. With Invisalign First, your child simply removes the aligners before meals and can eat as usual.
4. Discreet Appearance
Some children feel self-conscious about wearing braces, especially at a young age. Invisalign’s clear design makes the aligners virtually invisible.
5. Fewer Emergencies
No broken brackets or poking wires means fewer urgent trips to the orthodontist, which is a relief for busy parents.
Is My Child a Good Candidate?
Invisalign First is ideal for children with developing smiles who have mild to moderate orthodontic concerns. It can treat a wide range of early issues, from spacing and crowding to arch expansion and minor bite corrections.
That said, not every child is a candidate. The treatment’s success depends on your child’s specific needs—and their ability to consistently wear the aligners as instructed. Some younger children may need more help staying on track, which is why parental involvement is important during the process.
An orthodontic consultation is the best way to determine if Invisalign First is right for your child. A digital scan and assessment will reveal whether aligners are a viable option, or if traditional appliances are better suited to their treatment needs.
What Happens After Invisalign First?
In many cases, Phase 1 treatment with Invisalign First is followed by a resting phase while the remaining adult teeth come in. Later on, your child may need Phase 2 treatment, which could include additional Invisalign aligners or braces to fine-tune alignment.
The good news? Early treatment often makes future care easier, shorter, and less complex. By creating space and guiding growth at the right time, Invisalign First helps set the stage for a healthier, more efficient orthodontic journey overall.
Supporting Your Child Through Treatment
Even with the best technology, parental support plays a big role in making Invisalign First a success. Here are a few simple ways to help your child stay on track:
- Remind them to wear aligners as directed (especially before school and after meals)
- Keep aligners in a case when not in use to prevent loss or damage
- Help with daily hygiene to ensure clean teeth and clean aligners
- Attend regular checkups to track progress and receive new aligners
Positive encouragement goes a long way in helping kids feel confident and motivated during their orthodontic journey.
Explore Invisalign First with TG Orthodontics
If you’re considering early orthodontic treatment for your child, TG Orthodontics in Marlboro, NJ offers advanced solutions like Invisalign First to help guide developing smiles with care and precision.
Schedule a free consultation today to find out if your child is a candidate for clear aligners—and take the first step toward a lifetime of healthy smiles.
