What is Invisalign First?
Invisalign First is a Phase 1 orthodontic treatment created specifically for kids ages 6 to 10. Like Invisalign and Invisalign Teen, it uses custom-made, clear aligners to guide developing teeth into better alignment- gently and gradually.
For kids who need it, this early intervention can help prevent more serious dental issues and reduce the need for extensive treatment later. It’s a comfortable, flexible orthodontic treatment for kids designed to fit a growing child’s smile and lifestyle.
What is Phase 1 treatment?
Phase 1 treatment focuses on your child’s dental development while their jaws and teeth are still growing. By addressing issues like crowding, spacing, or bite problems early, you can improve long-term outcomes and shorten future treatment.
Not every kid needs Phase 1 treatment- some orthodontists estimate only about 1 in 10 children benefit from two-phase treatment.
Clear Aligners for Kids
Each set of Invisalign aligners is custom-built using advanced imaging and scanning.
They’re smooth, comfortable, removable for meals and brushing, and practically invisible, helping boost confidence as your child grows.
Kids can live, play, and smile during treatment with no uncomfortable wires or brackets!
Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign First?
Invisalign First is designed for children in what’s called early mixed dentition—typically between the ages of 6 and 10. It’s ideal for kids who are beginning to show signs of alignment or bite issues but are not yet ready for full braces.
The treatment can guide proper jaw growth, make space for incoming teeth, and prevent more invasive procedures later.
Age and Dentition Requirements
Your child should have a combination of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This stage, called mixed dentition, is the best window for early intervention using clear aligners.
Signs Your Child Might Need Treatment
Your child may benefit if they show:
- Crowded baby teeth
- Noticeable gaps
- An overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting
When Invisalign First May Not Be Right
Invisalign First isn’t recommended for severe bite problems or complex jaw issues that require traditional braces or surgical intervention.
What Issues Can Invisalign First Treat?
Invisalign First is designed to correct a variety of early orthodontic issues in growing children. By guiding teeth and jaws into better positions, it can reduce the need for more invasive treatment later.
Crowding and Spacing
Clear aligners gently guide teeth into better alignment, creating space where needed and closing gaps where teeth are too far apart.
Bite Problems
Invisalign First can help correct bite issues such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite, improving both dental function and appearance in kids.
Habit-Related Misalignment
Early habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting can push teeth out of alignment. Invisalign First can help correct the resulting spacing or bite problems before they worsen.
Invisalign First vs Invisalign Teen
Invisalign First and Invisalign Teen both use clear aligners, but they serve different age groups. Invisalign First is made for kids with baby and mixed teeth, while Teen is built for permanent teeth.
- Eruption tabs in Invisalign Teen to allow space for incoming second molars
- Compliance indicators in Invisalign Teen to monitor wear time
- Invisalign First includes unlimited aligners, while Invisalign Teen provides up to 6 replacement aligners
Both systems offer comfort, flexibility, and effective results tailored to your child’s stage of growth.
What to Expect During Treatment
Starting Invisalign First is a straightforward process guided by your orthodontist. Each step of the treatment is designed to ensure your child’s aligners fit well and work effectively over time. The entire process typically takes less than 18 months from start to finish.
The Evaluation Process
Your orthodontist will examine your child’s bite, tooth spacing, and stage of mixed dentition (teeth growth) to determine if Invisalign First is the right fit.
Custom Aligner Creation
Using an iTero scanner or impression kit, the orthodontist captures a precise 3D image to create your child’s custom aligners.
Regular Check-ins and Adjustments
You’ll return every few weeks to monitor progress and receive the next set of new trays tailored to ongoing tooth movement.
FAQ
What age is Invisalign First for?
Invisalign First is for kids ages 6–10 who have a mix of baby and adult teeth.
Is it safe for baby teeth?
Yes. It’s specifically designed to work with early dental development.
How long does treatment take?
Most treatments last between 6 to 12 months, depending on the case.
Do kids need to wear them all day?
Yes, Invisalign needs to be worn 20 to 22 hours per day for effective results.
What if a tray gets lost?
Your orthodontist can provide a replacement tray to keep treatment on track.
Will my child still need braces later?
Possibly. This is Phase 1, so some kids still will need Phase 2 treatment later on.
Are aligners hard to clean?
Not at all. To clean your aligners, just rinse and brush with a soft toothbrush.
