What Is Invisalign for Kids?
Invisalign for kids is a clear aligner system designed for children ages 6 to 10 with mixed dentition. Custom-made, removable plastic trays gently guide growing teeth into proper position while accommodating both baby and adult teeth. The treatment offers a nearly invisible alternative to traditional metal braces.
Invisalign for kids in Aurora, CO is a clear aligner system designed specifically for children with growing mouths and a mix of baby and adult teeth. These custom-made plastic trays fit snugly over your child’s teeth and gently guide them into proper position. Unlike traditional metal braces, clear aligners for children are nearly invisible and completely removable.
Each set of aligners is worn for 20 to 22 hours daily, removed only for eating, brushing, and flossing. The system works best for children between ages 6 and 10 who still have mixed dentition. Invisalign First differs from adult Invisalign because it includes special arch expansion features that work with your child’s natural growth patterns. The aligners can actually help create more space for adult teeth to come in properly.
This FDA-cleared treatment offers families in Aurora, Colorado a modern alternative to brackets and wires. At Garlock Orthodontics, Dr. David Garlock and Dr. Smith evaluate each child individually to see if Invisalign First is the right fit for their smile goals.
What Are the Benefits of Invisalign for Kids in Aurora?
Clear aligners give kids a confidence boost that metal braces simply can’t match. School photos, birthday parties, and everyday conversations no longer involve self-conscious smiles or hiding teeth.
Removable design makes life easier
Aligners come out for meals, so there’s no need to avoid popcorn, apples, or favorite snacks. Brushing and flossing happen the same way they always have. No special tools required.
Here’s what families love most about children’s orthodontics with Invisalign:
- Nearly invisible appearance that other kids rarely notice
- No brackets or wires to irritate cheeks and lips
- Smooth plastic that feels comfortable against soft tissues
- Freedom to eat all their favorite foods
- Easier oral hygiene with no metal to brush around
- Fewer office visits compared to traditional braces
The aligners can address common childhood orthodontic concerns early. Crowding, spacing issues, and narrow arches all respond well to Invisalign First treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends every child receive a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, when early intervention can simplify or even eliminate the need for more extensive treatment later.
Starting treatment during the mixed dentition phase takes advantage of your child’s natural growth. The aligners guide incoming adult teeth while there’s still room to make adjustments easily.
Invisalign First vs. Traditional Braces for Kids
| Feature | Invisalign First | Traditional Braces |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Nearly invisible clear aligners | Visible metal brackets and wires |
| Removable | Yes, for eating and cleaning | No, fixed to teeth |
| Food restrictions | None | Avoid sticky and hard foods |
| Oral hygiene | Brush and floss normally | Requires special tools |
| Office visits | Every 6 to 8 weeks | Every 4 to 6 weeks |
| Comfort | Smooth plastic, no poking wires | Brackets may irritate cheeks |
| Best for ages | 6 to 10 (mixed dentition) | All ages |
The Invisalign Treatment Process for Children
Getting started with Invisalign at Garlock Orthodontics is straightforward. Here’s what you and your child can expect:
Step 1: Free Consult and Digital Scan
Your child’s visit begins with a thorough evaluation at our Aurora office. Dr. Garlock or Dr. Smith examines your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw development. We use a digital scanner to create a precise 3D map of your child’s mouth. No goopy impressions, no gagging. Kids actually think the scanner is pretty cool.
Step 2: Custom 3D Treatment Plan
Using the digital scan, we design a treatment plan built for your child. You’ll see a virtual preview of how your child’s teeth will move over time. We review every detail with you, answer your questions, and make sure you feel confident about the next steps.
Step 3: Aligners Delivered and Treatment Begins
Once approved, your child receives their first sets of aligners. They’ll wear each set for one to two weeks before moving to the next in the series. Each new aligner applies gentle pressure to continue shifting teeth into their ideal positions.
Step 4: Progress Check-Ins
We schedule visits every six to eight weeks to monitor your child’s progress. These visits are quick. We make sure everything is tracking as planned and give you the next sets of aligners.
Treatment typically takes 12 to 18 months, though every child is different. After the active phase ends, your child wears retainers to keep their new smile in place. We provide clear guidance on retainer wear so those beautiful results last.
Is My Child a Candidate for Invisalign?
Children ages 6 to 10 with mixed dentition (a combination of baby and permanent teeth) are ideal candidates for Invisalign First. This phase of development offers a unique window for early orthodontic intervention, allowing aligners to guide growth while adult teeth are still erupting.
Responsibility matters
Aligners need to be worn consistently. That means 20 or more hours every day. If your child tends to lose things or forgets instructions easily, we’ll talk honestly about whether aligners are the right fit for now.
Invisalign First works well for:
- Crowded teeth that need more space
- Gaps between teeth
- Crossbite correction
- Narrow dental arches that need expansion
- Teeth that are erupting in the wrong position
Some conditions call for a different approach. Severe bite issues or significant jaw concerns may respond better to traditional braces. That’s okay. Our aim is finding the treatment that gives your child the best possible outcome.
Not sure if your child qualifies? We offer free candidacy evaluations at our Aurora office. Dr. Garlock and Dr. Smith will give you an honest assessment and explain all your options clearly.
Why Aurora Families Choose Garlock Orthodontics
Families throughout Aurora, Centennial, Parker, and Southeast Denver trust Garlock Orthodontics with their children’s smiles for Invisalign for Kids in Aurora CO. Here’s why.
Certified Invisalign expertise
Dr. David Garlock and Dr. Smith have years of hands-on experience with pediatric Invisalign cases and treat each young patient with care tailored to their stage of growth. Dr. Smith completed his Master’s in Orthodontics at Saint Louis University.
Kid-friendly technology
Digital scanning replaces traditional impressions in our practice. Kids appreciate the quick, comfortable process. Parents appreciate the accuracy.
Our Aurora, Colorado office feels warm and friendly from the moment families walk through the door. Every family is treated like our own, and your child won’t feel anxious or intimidated here. That’s the Garlock experience in action.
Transparent pricing
Honest conversations about cost are part of every consult. Our team explains all fees upfront and offers flexible payment plans that fit your family’s budget. Low monthly payment options make quality orthodontic care accessible.
Proven results
We’ve helped many young patients achieve healthier, straighter smiles through Invisalign First treatment, in line with the American Association of Orthodontists’ age-7 evaluation recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Invisalign
How much does Invisalign for kids cost in Aurora?
Treatment costs vary based on your child’s specific needs and the complexity of their case. During your free consult at Garlock Orthodontics, we provide a detailed cost breakdown with no surprises. We also offer low monthly payment options to make treatment affordable for Aurora families.
How long does treatment take for children?
Most children complete Invisalign First treatment in 12 to 18 months. The exact timeline depends on what we’re correcting and how consistently your child wears their aligners. We give you a personalized estimate during the consult.
Will my child be able to play sports with Invisalign?
Yes, children can play all sports with Invisalign. For contact sports, remove the aligners and wear a protective mouthguard during practices and games. The aligners go right back in afterward. Non-contact activities like running, swimming, or dance require no special accommodations at all.
How should my child care for their aligners?
Cleaning is simple. Aligners should be rinsed with lukewarm water and brushed gently with a soft toothbrush. Hot water can warp the plastic and should be avoided. We provide complete care instructions when treatment starts.
Does insurance cover kids’ Invisalign?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits that apply to Invisalign. Our team contacts your insurance provider to verify coverage and maximize your benefits. We handle the paperwork so you don’t have to.
What happens if my child loses an aligner?
It happens. Kids are kids. Contact our office right away. Depending on where your child is in the treatment sequence, we may have them wear the previous aligner or move to the next one while we order a replacement. Quick communication prevents delays in treatment progress.
Schedule Your Child’s Invisalign Consultation in Aurora
Ready to explore Invisalign First for your child? Garlock Orthodontics makes getting started easy.
Request your free consult today. There’s no obligation and no pressure. Dr. Garlock and Dr. Smith will evaluate your child’s smile, discuss how we help, and answer every question you have.
Our Aurora, Colorado office serves families throughout Centennial, Parker, and Southeast Denver. We look forward to helping your child achieve a healthy, confident smile.
Go the extra smile with Garlock Orthodontics.