Invisalign First is a clear aligner system made for children roughly 6 to 10 years old, while baby and adult teeth are still sharing space. It can guide a growing jaw and make room for incoming teeth with removable trays instead of brackets, so early problems get handled before they grow into bigger ones.
Dr. Tara Gostovich is an Invisalign Platinum+ provider in Marlboro, NJ. Book a complimentary consultation to find out whether your child is ready.
What is Invisalign First, and how is it different?
Most people think of aligners as something for teens and adults. This version is designed for younger mouths, with trays shaped to fit around baby teeth, short crowns and teeth that are still coming in.
Because a child’s jaw is still growing, the goal isn’t always a finished smile. More often it’s creating space, widening a narrow arch or correcting a bite while growth can help. Learn more about our Invisalign treatment options for every age.
Why parents are choosing clear aligners for kids
- RemovableTrays come out for meals, so there’s no list of forbidden snacks.
- Easy to cleanKids brush and floss normally, which keeps gums healthier.
- ComfortableSmooth plastic, with no brackets or wires to rub cheeks.
- DiscreetMany classmates never notice them at all.
For many families, clear aligners for kids simply fit everyday life better than brackets at age 7 or 8.
Is my child a candidate for Invisalign for kids?
A good candidate usually has a mix of baby and permanent teeth and a concern that benefits from early attention. Common reasons Dr. Gostovich may recommend Phase 1 Invisalign include:
- ✓Crowding, or not enough room for adult teeth to come in
- ✓Gaps and spacing between teeth
- ✓A narrow upper jaw or arch
- ✓Certain bite problems, such as some crossbites
- ✓Front teeth that stick out and are easier to chip
Not every child needs treatment this early. Sometimes the best plan is to watch growth and check again in a year, and we’ll tell you honestly when that’s the case.
Invisalign for kids does depend on cooperation, since aligners only work while they’re worn. Children who can follow a simple routine, with a parent checking in, tend to do well.
How does Phase 1 Invisalign work?
- 1
Consultation: a gentle exam and a conversation about your child’s teeth, bite and habits. - 2
3D scan: the iTero scanner records a digital model, with no goopy impressions. - 3
Custom aligners: a series of trays is designed to guide teeth and support arch development. - 4
Check-ins: progress is tracked in the office and, when it fits, with DentalMonitoring at home.
Aligners are worn most of the day and night, coming out only to eat and brush. How long this phase lasts depends on what’s being corrected, and you’ll get a realistic timeline at the consultation.
Why early orthodontic treatment matters
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At that point, an orthodontist can spot problems that are easier to guide now than to correct later.
Treating early won’t always replace braces or aligners in the teen years. A second phase may still be needed, but it’s often simpler when the foundation is already in place. Our early orthodontic treatment page explains the approach in more detail.
What if the upper jaw needs more room?
If the arch needs more width than aligners alone can provide, Dr. Gostovich may suggest the Invisalign Palatal Expander, a removable device with no keys or screws. Some children move on to Invisalign First once there’s more space.
What does Invisalign First cost?
Invisalign First cost depends on what’s being corrected, how long treatment lasts and whether an expander is part of the plan. Because every child is different, we don’t quote a number before we’ve seen your child’s teeth.
Families can spread payments out with flexible, interest-free monthly plans, and our team coordinates insurance benefits for you. The payment calculator gives you a feel for monthly amounts, and your exact quote comes at the complimentary consultation.
Why parents trust Dr. Gostovich with early care
Dr. Tara Gostovich is an ABO board-certified orthodontist who has treated nearly 1,500 Invisalign cases. Parents get a specialist who understands how growing mouths change from year to year.
We also use iTero scanning and DentalMonitoring, so young patients spend less time in the chair and more time being kids. Curious about other approaches? See the full range of orthodontic treatments we offer.
Frequently asked questions
What age is Invisalign First for?
Invisalign First is designed for children about 6 to 10 years old who still have a mix of baby and adult teeth. The best way to know whether your child’s timing is right is an orthodontic evaluation, ideally by age 7.
How many hours a day does my child need to wear the aligners?
Most of the day and night. Aligners come out for meals and brushing, then go right back in. Consistent wear is what makes the treatment work, so a simple routine and a quick daily check from a parent help a lot.
Will my child still need braces later?
Possibly. Phase 1 Invisalign addresses early problems while the jaw is still growing, but some children need a second phase once all of their adult teeth are in. When that happens, the second phase can be shorter and simpler.
Is your child ready for aligners?
Find out whether Invisalign First is a good fit at a complimentary consultation in Marlboro, NJ. Call (732) 617-1211 or book online.