Can teens use clear aligners?
Yes. Between the ages of 12 and 17, most permanent teeth have erupted and jaw growth continues. This period is a productive time for planning tooth movements and some bite corrections. In this age group, clear aligners can be used for problems such as crowding, gaps, deep bite, open bite and mild to moderate crossbite.
How are aligners for teens different?
- Compliance indicator: A colored mark on the aligner fades as it is worn; the orthodontist and the family can see whether the aligner has been worn enough.
- Room for erupting teeth: Space can be left in the aligner for canines and premolars that have not yet fully erupted.
- Replacement aligners: Loss or breakage is taken into account in planning.
These features vary depending on the system and plan used; detailed information is given at the examination.
How are they worn at school and in social life?
Because the aligners are thin and clear, they are hard to notice when talking and smiling. Since there are no wires or brackets, there is nothing poking inside the mouth during activities such as sports and playing musical instruments. The aligner is taken out for meals and put back in after rinsing the mouth or brushing the teeth. The aligner case should always be carried in the bag.
How does treatment progress?
- Examination: The teeth, gums and bite are assessed; X-rays are requested if needed.
- iTero digital scan: A three-dimensional record is taken without impression paste.
- 3D treatment simulation: The planned movements are shown step by step.
- Aligners: Worn 20–22 hours a day and usually changed every 7–14 days.
- Check-ups: Every 6–10 weeks; the compliance indicator and tooth movements are assessed together.
- Retention: At the end of treatment, a removable retainer or fixed retainer is used to maintain the result.
Total treatment time varies by case; it can be a few months in mild cases and more than a year in comprehensive cases.
Tips for improving compliance in teens
- Track wear time with a phone alarm or a tracking app.
- Do not drink anything other than water while the aligner is in.
- Do not wrap the aligner in a napkin; always put it in its case.
- The feeling of pressure in the first days after switching to a new aligner is normal; keep wearing it instead of taking it out.
Clear aligners or braces?
Both methods have their strengths. Clear aligners offer convenience in terms of appearance and hygiene; however, they require consistent wear. Fixed braces may be more suitable when the required wear time cannot be ensured or when certain complex movements are needed. The decision is made together with the teen and their family after the examination.
Examinations for teens in Ankara
Our clinic is in Park Oran, next to Panora Mall in Çankaya. For appointment options outside school hours, you can fill out the form or message us on WhatsApp.