By Eng Orthodontics — Brighton, Reunion, Fort Morgan & Arvada, CO
When it comes to straightening your child’s teeth, one of the biggest decisions parents face is choosing between traditional braces and Invisalign® clear aligners. Both treatments are effective, but the right choice depends on your child’s unique needs, personality, and dental goals. At Eng Orthodontics, our team—Dr. Albert Eng, Dr. Ashlynn Schiro, Dr. Jared Error, and Dr. Shane Hoelz—takes pride in helping families across Colorado make confident, informed decisions about their orthodontic care.
Understanding the Basics
Traditional Braces:
Metal or ceramic brackets are attached to each tooth and connected by a wire. Braces apply continuous pressure to move teeth into alignment and are adjusted periodically by your orthodontist.
Invisalign Clear Aligners:
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, removable plastic trays that gradually shift teeth into place. They are clear, comfortable, and nearly invisible.
Benefits of Invisalign for Kids
- Aesthetic Appeal – Invisalign trays are transparent, which means your child can smile confidently during treatment.
- Comfort and Safety – No metal brackets or wires to irritate cheeks or gums.
- Easier Oral Hygiene – Kids can remove aligners to brush and floss normally, helping prevent cavities and plaque buildup.
- Fewer Food Restrictions – With removable trays, children can enjoy popcorn, apples, and other “off-limits” foods for braces wearers.
- Predictable Progress – Invisalign’s digital technology allows parents and orthodontists to visualize the treatment plan from start to finish.
Benefits of Braces for Kids
- Effective for Complex Cases – Braces are ideal for correcting severe crowding, rotated teeth, and bite misalignments.
- No Compliance Issues – Because braces are fixed, parents don’t have to worry about kids forgetting or losing their aligners.
- Faster Results in Some Cases – For younger children, braces may achieve results more efficiently, especially in early orthodontic phases.
- Custom Options – Today’s braces are smaller, more comfortable, and can even come with colorful bands for a fun, personalized look.
Which Option Is Better for Your Child?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Invisalign and braces both offer excellent outcomes, but the best option depends on:
- Your child’s age and maturity level (Invisalign requires consistent wear).
- The complexity of tooth movement needed.
- Lifestyle and activity level (sports, music, etc.).
- Your family’s cosmetic preferences.
At Eng Orthodontics, we evaluate your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw development before recommending the most suitable treatment plan.
Common Questions About Invisalign vs. Braces for Kids
Q: At what age can my child start Invisalign?
A: Invisalign offers Invisalign First® aligners designed for children as young as 7 years old who have a mix of baby and adult teeth. This early treatment can help guide jaw growth and prevent more complex orthodontic issues later.
Q: Are Invisalign aligners as effective as braces?
A: For mild to moderate alignment issues, Invisalign can be just as effective. However, for complex bite corrections or severe crowding, traditional braces may still be the better choice.
Q: How long does treatment take for kids?
A: Treatment time varies by case, but most children complete orthodontic care in 12–24 months, whether using braces or Invisalign.
Q: Is Invisalign more expensive than braces?
A: Costs are often comparable, depending on the complexity of the case. Eng Orthodontics provides clear estimates and flexible financing options to make treatment affordable for every family.
Q: What if my child forgets to wear their Invisalign aligners?
A: Consistency is key! Aligners should be worn 20–22 hours per day. If compliance becomes an issue, traditional braces might be a better fit.
Q: Can my child play sports or instruments with braces or Invisalign?
A: Yes! Invisalign aligners can be removed for short periods, while braces patients can use custom mouthguards to stay protected during sports.
The Eng Orthodontics Difference
At Eng Orthodontics, we believe every child deserves a healthy, confident smile that lasts a lifetime. Our board-certified orthodontists use advanced technology and compassionate care to create treatment plans that fit your child’s needs, lifestyle, and comfort level.
We proudly serve families from:
- Brighton Office: (303) 498-0351
- Reunion Office: (303) 498-0351
- Fort Morgan Office: (970) 542-2500
- Arvada Office: (720) 800-9331
- Website: engortho.com
Schedule a Free Consultation Today!
Whether you’re considering Invisalign for kids or traditional braces, the expert team at Eng Orthodontics will guide you every step of the way. We make orthodontic care simple, effective, and fun for the whole family.
Call your nearest Eng Orthodontics location or visit engortho.com to book your child’s consultation today!