Everything parents and teens need to know about starting orthodontic treatment with Invisalign®

Discover when teens can start Invisalign®, how aligners fit around school, sports and lifestyle, and why Vogue Dental’s expert orthodontic care delivers healthy, confident smiles.

Teenage years are a common time to consider orthodontic treatment. Teeth and jaws are still developing, which allows for effective and predictable correction of alignment issues. At Vogue Dental in Chislehurst, Kent, Dr Aneka offers Teen Invisalign®, a discreet, flexible and comfortable alternative to traditional braces that fits seamlessly into a busy school lifestyle.

This guide covers everything parents and teens need to know about starting treatment, what to expect from aligners, and why professional planning is key to a successful outcome.

When to Start Teen Orthodontic Treatment

The ideal time to begin treatment is usually when the second molars have erupted, which is typically around ages 13-14. At this stage, most permanent teeth are in place, allowing the orthodontist to assess alignment, bite and jaw development accurately.

Every teenager is unique, so the exact timing will be confirmed at a consultation. Early assessment ensures the most effective treatment plan and helps predict whether interventions such as space management are needed.

Flexible Appointments Around School Schedules

Teenagers have busy schedules with school, homework, sports and social activities. Vogue Dental understands this and offers flexible appointment times to minimise disruption. Treatments can be planned around school commitments, helping teens attend appointments without missing important lessons or activities.

Wearing Aligners with School and Sports

Invisalign® aligners are removable, which gives teens the freedom to continue daily activities comfortably. Aligners can be taken out for:

  • Sports – making contact sports safer and more comfortable
  • Music – instruments such as flutes or clarinets can be played without restriction
  • Special occasions – photographs, school events, or exams

For general school life, aligners are thin, clear and barely noticeable, allowing teens to maintain confidence while straightening their teeth.

What to Expect When Wearing Aligners

Teen Invisalign® is designed with lifestyle in mind. Some key points to help patients prepare include:

  • Cleaning: Aligners must be removed for eating and cleaned regularly. Teeth should be brushed after meals before reinserting the aligner.
  • Diet: Since aligners are removed for food, teens can enjoy their usual diet without restrictions, though sticky or hard foods should be eaten carefully.
  • Consistency: Aligners should be worn for 20-22 hours per day to achieve the best results.
  • Adjustment period: Mild pressure or soreness is normal for a few days with each new set of aligners as teeth gradually shift.

Teen patients often adapt quickly, and the removable nature of the system makes it much easier to maintain oral hygiene compared with fixed braces.

Will Extractions Be Necessary?

Dr Aneka takes a non-extraction approach whenever possible, prioritising minimally invasive treatment that preserves natural teeth and delivers a full, wide, beautiful smile. Careful planning and precise use of aligners can often correct crowding and spacing without removing teeth, ensuring long-term health and aesthetics.

Why Choose Vogue Dental for Teen Invisalign®

The success of Invisalign treatment depends largely on planning and expertise. Dr Aneka brings postgraduate orthodontic training, a special interest in orthodontics, and a keen eye for cosmetic dentistry. This combination ensures every treatment plan is customised for function, aesthetics and longevity.

By choosing Vogue Dental for Teen Invisalign®, parents and teens can be confident that their smile is in experienced, attentive hands, with careful monitoring and support throughout treatment.

Helping Teens Smile with Confidence

Orthodontic treatment is about more than just straight teeth – it’s about confidence, comfort, and oral health. Teen Invisalign® at Vogue Dental allows adolescents to achieve a beautiful smile with minimal disruption to school life, sports and social activities, all while receiving expert care tailored to their unique needs.

 

Secure your teen’s smile for the future – book a Teen Invisalign® consultation at Vogue Dental today and find out how treatment can fit around school, sports, and lifestyle.

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What our clients are saying about Vogue Dental

I SAW DR. ANEKA ON RECOMMENDATION AND I AM VERY GLAD THAT I DID.  THE SERVICE I RECEIVED FROM DR. ANEKA AND HER ASSISTANT WAS IMPECCABLE AND NOTHING SHORT THAN VERY PROFESSIONAL. I DEFINITELY RECOMMEND DR. ANEKA AND TEAM AND WILL CERTAINLY BE VISITING THEM FOR FUTURE TREATMENTS.

Sonia C, 2024

I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN NERVOUS ABOUT VISITING THE DENTIST, BUT A TRIP TO VOGUE IS LIKE NO OTHER EXPERIENCE I’VE HAD. THANK YOU!

Amanda P, 2022

I am grateful every day that Dr. Aneka is in my life!

Vanessa T, 2022

Proud of our awards and the service we provide

Private Dentistry Awards 2018 - Winner, Best Young Dentist Midlands
The Dentistry Awards 2018 - Finalist
Aesthetic Dentistry Awards 2019 - Finalist
Aesthetic Dentistry Awards 2020 - Finalist
Private Dentistry Awards Finalist
Aesthetic Dentistry Awards 2021 - Finalist
Nominated for Private Dentistry Awards 2022 - Finalist

We are proud to be a multi award-winning dental clinic.

Private Dentistry Awards 2018 - Winner, Best Young Dentist Midlands
The Dentistry Awards 2018 - Finalist
Aesthetic Dentistry Awards 2019 - Finalist
Aesthetic Dentistry Awards 2020 - Finalist
Aesthetic Dentistry Awards 2021 - Finalist
Private Dentistry Awards Finalist
Nominated for Private Dentistry Awards 2022 - Finalist