One of the most common questions parents in Factoria ask us is whether their child can get Invisalign. It’s a fair question. Every child is different, and what works well for one may not be the best fit for another.
For some kids, especially those who struggle with brushing and flossing, Invisalign can actually be a healthier choice than braces. That’s because traditional braces can trap food and plaque around brackets, increasing the risk of white spots or cavities if oral hygiene isn’t consistent. With removable aligners, kids can brush and floss more easily, which helps protect their teeth throughout treatment.
Of course, Invisalign also comes with responsibilities, both for kids and parents. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of Invisalign for kids, so you’ll have a clear picture of whether it might be the right option for your family.
Invisalign for Kids: Things All Parents Should Consider
Invisalign is one of the best clear aligner brands out there. There are Invisalign alternatives that you can get right here in Factoria.
But as parents, you might hesitate getting one for your child and there are some concerns that should be addressed. Here is what Washington Orthodontics thinks about the situation:
Invisalign Costs More Than Traditional Braces
Invisalign is a premiere clear aligner brand. If we were talking about braces for adults, Invisalign is a no-brainer recommendation for people who want to start their orthodontic health journey. The issue is that all the benefits come at a premiere cost as well.
Braces costs in Factoria (and the Bellevue area in general), fluctuate but it typically costs between $3,500 to $7,000. However, prices vary for each child depending on their case.
Responsibility and Daily Habits
Wearing Invisalign is a daily commitment. Kids need to keep aligners in for 20–22 hours per day, remove them for meals, brush and floss before putting them back in, and keep trays safe when they’re out. This can be a lot to manage — even for teens. Parents often find the biggest challenge is making sure their child remembers to wear and care for their trays, especially at school, during sports, or at sleepovers.
- Strict Cleaning Routine: Brushing and flossing after every single meal or snack is non-negotiable to prevent cavities and staining.
- Water-Only Rule: Kids can’t drink anything but water with aligners in—soda, juice, or even hot chocolate means removing and cleaning trays every time.
- Limited Snacking & Spontaneity: Sleepovers, amusement parks, and holidays like Halloween become less carefree, as aligners need to be removed and teeth brushed before eating.
- High Compliance Demand: Aligners must be worn for 20–22 hours a day, and even adults struggle with this. Skipping hours can delay treatment.
- Sports & Activities Challenge: Athletes may find it hard to refuel quickly with snacks or fruit unless they have access to proper brushing facilities.
- Emotional & Mental Load: Constantly managing aligners can feel overwhelming for kids, taking some of the “fun” out of childhood.
- Alternative Treatments May Be Easier: For some kids, expanders or traditional braces may offer a simpler, more realistic path with fewer daily demands.
Parents Play an Active Role
Unlike braces, where most of the work happens at the orthodontist’s office, Invisalign requires more at-home oversight. Parents are responsible for reminding kids when to switch trays, checking that aligners fit properly, and ensuring good hygiene habits are followed. Appointments are less frequent, but the day-to-day responsibility shifts more onto families.
- Daily Supervision: Parents need to make sure trays are worn on schedule and properly stored when removed.
- Meal & Snack Management: You’ll be packing toothbrushes, floss picks, and aligner cases for school and outings.
- Routine Reinforcement: Younger kids will need reminders every time they eat, drink, or snack.
- Treatment Progress Checks: Parents must be proactive about making sure aligners fit properly and switching to new trays on time.
In other words, Invisalign is as much a parent project as it is a child’s treatment plan. Unless your child is exceptionally responsible, you’ll be the one carrying much of the load.
Pros of Invisalign for Kids
While Invisalign is a big responsibility, it’s not all downsides. For the right child, especially older kids and teens, Invisalign can be a game-changer. Clear aligners make orthodontic treatment more comfortable, less noticeable, and easier to manage compared to traditional braces. If your child is responsible and motivated, Invisalign offers some big perks worth considering such as:
Virtually Invisible and Confidence-Boosting
Clear aligners are nearly invisible, which makes them a great option for kids who may feel self-conscious about braces. Many children appreciate being able to smile without worrying about noticeable brackets or wires. This can be especially helpful during their teenage years, when confidence is so important. Invisalign gives them a more discreet path to a straight smile.
Easier Brushing and Flossing
Because aligners are removable, kids can maintain their normal brushing and flossing routine without navigating around brackets and wires. This makes it easier to keep their teeth clean and avoid plaque buildup or cavities during treatment. Parents often find this a relief since oral hygiene with braces can be a challenge.
Comfortable and Gentle on the Mouth
Invisalign aligners are smooth and custom-fit, so kids don’t have to deal with poking wires or painful adjustments. While there’s still some pressure as teeth shift, it’s typically gentler than traditional braces. This makes Invisalign a more comfortable choice for kids with sensitive mouths. Plus, there’s less risk of mouth sores or irritation.
Fewer Emergency Visits and Office Trips
With no brackets to break or wires to snap, parents don’t have to worry about rushing to the orthodontist for repairs. Most Invisalign check-ins are quick, and some can even be handled virtually, saving families time. This convenience can make orthodontic treatment feel less disruptive to busy school and activity schedules. It’s a smoother, simpler process overall.
Should You Get Invisalign for Your Kids?
Both Invisalign and braces can give kids a healthy, confident smile — but the best choice depends on your child’s habits, age, and your family’s goals. Invisalign tends to be a great option for older kids and teens who are responsible, but it can also work well for younger children who struggle with brushing, as long as parents are ready to help manage trays and routines.
The best way to know what’s right for your child is with a professional consultation. At Washington Orthodontics, we’ll take the time to explain every option — from Invisalign to braces to expanders — so you can make the most informed decision for your family.
Schedule a free consultation with Washington Orthodontics today!
