What Is Invisalign First?
Invisalign for kids is a clear aligner system called Invisalign First, designed specifically for children ages 6 to 10 who have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. These custom-made BPA-free plastic trays gently guide growing teeth and jaws into better alignment. At Dorfman Orthodontic Group in Bensalem, PA, our board certified orthodontist uses this approach to treat crowding, spacing, narrow arches, and early bite concerns without metal brackets or wires.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners are completely removable. Your child takes them out for meals, brushing, and sports. They wear each set of trays for one to two weeks before moving to the next set in the series. Most kids wear their aligners 20 to 22 hours daily for the best results.
What makes Invisalign First different from the adult version? The aligners are engineered for mixed dentition, meaning they account for baby teeth that will fall out and permanent teeth still erupting. The trays include features like eruption compensation, which leaves room for incoming teeth, and dental arch expansion, which gently widens the upper or lower jaw during these key growth years. Adult Invisalign assumes a full set of permanent teeth and works with a stable bite, while Invisalign First is built around a changing mouth. That’s why this early phase of treatment can shape the foundation for a healthier smile down the road.
Benefits of Invisalign for Children in Bensalem
Clear aligners offer real advantages for school-aged kids in Bensalem who feel self-conscious about orthodontic treatment. Here’s why families pick Invisalign First at DOG Ortho:
Confidence at school
The aligners are nearly invisible. Most classmates won’t notice your child is wearing them.
Easy oral hygiene
Your child removes the trays to brush and floss normally. No special threaders or brushes needed.
No food restrictions
Pizza, apples, popcorn at the movies, nothing is off limits. Just pop the aligners out before eating.
Comfortable fit
Smooth plastic means no brackets poking cheeks or wires irritating gums. Fewer emergency visits for you.
Works with active lifestyles
Soccer practice? Band rehearsal? Your child removes aligners for sports mouthguards and wind instruments, then puts them right back in.
Guides jaw development
During these critical growth years, Invisalign First can help expand narrow arches and create space for permanent teeth still coming in.
Bensalem families appreciate that clear aligners fit into busy schedules without the hassle of dietary changes or complicated cleaning routines.
The Invisalign for Kids Treatment Process in Bensalem
Getting started with Invisalign for kids at Dorfman Orthodontic Group is straightforward. Here’s what to expect from your first visit through the final retainer:
- Complimentary consultation. You’ll meet with our team at our Bensalem or Southampton convenient location. We take digital iTero scans of your child’s teeth using goop-free, comfortable impressions, no messy molds required.
- Custom treatment plan. Using 3D imaging, Dr. Jake Dorfman creates a custom treatment plan. You’ll see a preview of how your child’s smile will look after treatment.
- Aligners arrive. Within two to three weeks, your child’s custom aligners are ready. They’ll wear each tray for one to two weeks before switching to the next.
- Progress check-ins. We schedule visits every six to ten weeks to make sure teeth are moving as planned. These appointments are quick, usually 15 to 20 minutes, and let us hand off the next batch of trays, check fit, and answer any questions you or your child have between visits.
- Retainers for Life. After active treatment ends, your child receives retainers to keep their new smile in place. Our Retainers for Life program helps protect your investment for years to come by providing replacement retainers as your child grows, so a lost or worn retainer never threatens the results you worked hard to achieve.
Treatment typically takes 12 to 18 months, though every child’s case is different. Some kids finish sooner. Others with more complex needs may take a bit longer.
Is Your Child a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
The best candidates for Invisalign First are children between ages 6 and 10 who have both baby teeth and permanent teeth. This mixed dentition phase is actually ideal for early orthodontic intervention because your child’s jaw is still growing and more receptive to gentle guidance.
Good candidates typically have:
- Mild to moderate crowding or spacing
- Crossbite or narrow dental arches
- Teeth that aren’t coming in straight
- Willingness to wear aligners consistently
Important considerations:
| Factor | What We Look For |
|---|---|
| Age | 6-10 years old with mixed dentition |
| Responsibility | Can follow instructions and wear aligners 20+ hours daily |
| Parent involvement | Willing to supervise wear time and cleaning |
| Case complexity | Mild to moderate issues respond best |
Some children with severe skeletal problems may need traditional braces, expanders, or other early interceptive treatment instead. That’s why we offer a complimentary new patient consultation. Dr. Dorfman evaluates your child’s specific situation and recommends the approach that will work best.
Why Bensalem Families Choose Dorfman Orthodontic Group
Families throughout Bensalem and Bucks County trust DOG Ortho for their children’s orthodontic care. Here’s what families notice about us:
Board certified expertise. Dr. Jake Dorfman is board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics with specialized training in pediatric cases. He’s also a diamond plus Invisalign provider, meaning he has extensive experience with clear aligner treatment.
Kid-friendly atmosphere. We think orthodontic visits should be easy, affordable, and fun. Our team creates a welcoming environment where children actually look forward to appointments.
Smile Forever Guarantee. We stand behind our work. This program gives you peace of mind that your child’s results will last.
Flexible payment options. Use our Payment Calculator to see monthly payment plans that fit your budget. We accept most major insurance plans and offer financing with low down payments.
Community focus. Every time someone starts orthodontic treatment at our office, we donate a portion to charity. When you choose DOG Ortho, you’re helping spread happiness with every smile beyond just your family.
Convenient locations. With offices in both Bensalem and Southampton, PA, we’re never far from home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign for Kids
How much does Invisalign for kids cost in Bensalem, PA?
The cost of Invisalign First varies based on your child’s specific treatment needs and how long they’ll need to wear aligners. During your complimentary new patient consultation at Dorfman Orthodontic Group, we provide a custom treatment plan with clear pricing. We offer flexible payment plans with no down payment options, and we work with most insurance providers to help you get the most from your coverage.
At what age can my child start Invisalign?
Children can begin Invisalign First as early as age 6, once they have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This allows Dr. Dorfman to spot any developing issues and determine the right time to start treatment.
Does Invisalign work as well as braces for children?
For appropriate cases, Invisalign First achieves excellent results comparable to traditional braces. Clear aligners work especially well for crowding, spacing, and mild bite issues in growing children. Some complex cases may still benefit from braces or a combination approach. We’ll recommend the best option for your child during their evaluation.
What if my child loses an aligner?
It happens! If your child misplaces an aligner, contact our office right away. Depending on where they are in treatment, we may have them move to the next tray early or order a replacement. We keep records of every aligner, so getting a new one is simple.
How do we clean Invisalign trays?
Cleaning is easy. Have your child rinse aligners every time they remove them. Once daily, they should brush the trays gently with a soft toothbrush and clear liquid soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic. Most kids get the hang of this routine within the first week.
Will insurance cover Invisalign for my child?
Many dental insurance plans that cover orthodontic treatment will cover Invisalign First the same way they cover braces. Our team verifies your benefits before treatment begins so you know exactly what to expect. We also offer payment plans to make any remaining balance manageable.
Schedule a Free Invisalign Consultation in Bensalem
Ready to find out if Invisalign is right for your child? Book a complimentary new patient consultation at Dorfman Orthodontic Group. Your visit includes a digital scan and a personalized treatment recommendation from our board certified orthodontist.
No referral is needed. Same-week appointments are often available.
Call or text us at (215) 935-4639 or request your appointment online.
Our Southampton and Bensalem offices welcome families from throughout Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia. At DOG Ortho, we’re here to spread happiness with every smile, and we can’t wait to meet your family.