Early orthodontic treatment can play a critical role in setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. But as a parent, knowing what’s best — and when to begin — can feel overwhelming. If your child is showing signs of orthodontic issues, you might be wondering whether they’re too young for clear aligners like Invisalign First.
Invisalign First is specifically designed for children ages 6 to 10 who may need early orthodontic guidance. If you live in Aurora, CO, and are exploring options for your child, this modern approach to Phase 1 treatment may offer the flexibility and comfort you’re looking for.
What Is Invisalign First?
Invisalign First is a version of Invisalign designed for growing children. It’s part of what orthodontists refer to as Phase 1 treatment — early intervention that takes place before all permanent teeth have erupted.
Rather than waiting until the teenage years, Invisalign First allows orthodontists to guide the growth of a child’s jaw and create space for incoming adult teeth. It uses the same clear, custom aligner technology as standard Invisalign, but is engineered for smaller mouths and developing dental structures.
When Is Early Orthodontic Treatment Recommended?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, enough adult teeth have typically come in to detect early bite issues, crowding, or jaw development concerns.
Common reasons a child might benefit from early intervention include:
- Crowding of baby or permanent teeth
- Narrow dental arches
- Prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use
- Crossbites, overbites, or underbites
- Early loss of baby teeth or late eruption of adult teeth
Addressing these issues early can help reduce the severity of future treatment — and in some cases, eliminate the need for braces in the teen years altogether.
How Invisalign First Works
The process for Invisalign First begins with a consultation, where the orthodontist will assess your child’s teeth, jaw development, and overall oral health. If Invisalign First is recommended, digital impressions are taken to design a custom series of clear aligners.
These aligners are worn for about 20 to 22 hours per day and changed every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on your child’s progress. Aligners gently guide teeth into better positions and help shape the jaw as it grows.
Because they’re removable, aligners can be taken out for meals and oral hygiene, making them easier to manage than fixed appliances in many cases.
Benefits of Invisalign First
Invisalign First offers several advantages over traditional early orthodontic devices like expanders or partial braces:
- Comfort — Smooth plastic aligners minimize irritation to cheeks and gums
- Discretion — Clear design makes them less noticeable than metal options
- Removability — Easy to take out for brushing, flossing, and meals
- Fewer Emergencies — No brackets or wires to break
- Custom Fit — Aligners are digitally designed for precise, personalized movement
For many children — especially those who are active in sports, sensitive to discomfort, or self-conscious — Invisalign First offers a less invasive way to get started with orthodontic care.
Is Your Child a Good Candidate?
Not all children will be a match for Invisalign First. Ideal candidates include those who:
- Are between ages 6 and 10
- Show early signs of misalignment or crowding
- Are responsible enough to wear aligners as directed
- Could benefit from jaw development guidance or space creation
A consultation is the best way to determine whether Invisalign First is right for your child. If your child needs more complex correction or isn’t ready for consistent wear, traditional early treatment options may be recommended instead.
What Happens After Phase 1 Treatment?
Invisalign First is often just the first step in a two-phase orthodontic approach. After completing early treatment, your child may wear a retainer and enter a monitoring phase. Once all permanent teeth have erupted — usually around ages 11 to 13 — a second round of treatment (Phase 2) may be considered.
The benefit of starting early is that Phase 2, if needed, tends to be shorter and less involved than it would be without initial guidance.
Start with a Consultation in Aurora, CO
If you think your child may need early orthodontic treatment, learning more about Invisalign First is a smart first step. It offers a modern, flexible, and gentle way to support your child’s oral development — and build confidence along the way.
Why Choose Garlock Orthodontics?
At Garlock Orthodontics, we take a conservative and personalized approach to early treatment. Families in Aurora, CO trust our team to make thoughtful recommendations that align with your child’s needs and growth. Whether your child is a candidate for Invisalign First or another option, we’re here to help guide the process — from the first visit to the final smile.