It is not always easy to be a teenager. With consciousness of self-image and appearance, the prospect of wearing an orthodontic appliance is rarely seen as good news! Metal fasteners – commonly called metal rings – are often difficult to wear and adolescents can quickly catch the flu, which is clearly visible in the middle of the face. However, this is a very important period in orthodontics: no question of skipping treatment.
Why invisible devices in adolescents?
In these conditions, how to reconcile orthodontic treatment and self-confidence?
The answer is undoubtedly to be found in the development of invisible orthodontics, be it lingual or Invisalign treatments. They were first acclaimed by adults and their development now allows them to also be offered to adolescents. Preparation for the installation of an orthodontic appliance in lingual: the gluing trays for lingual attachments
What is invisible orthodontics?
The so-called “invisible” orthodontics brings together several techniques which allow discreet and difficult to locate treatments. This is in contrast to treatments with external metal fasteners – “metal rings” – which are still often the symbol of orthodontic treatments in children and adolescents today. Invisible orthodontics has developed to meet the demand of adults who wanted to perform treatment but could not allow it to be visible in the context of their work: public speaking, commercial etc.
Some just didn’t want to have a visible device and be embarrassed about it in their privacy. These techniques are now very developed and just as effective as a treatment with external rings. However, they are more complex to implement and are not mastered by all orthodontists, and a fortiori by dentists practicing orthodontics.
There are several types of orthodontic treatments called “invisible”, as opposed to visible orthodontics:
- The very discreet but ceramic outer rings,
- The almost undetectable multi-patented Invisalign aligners,
- And finally, the rings inside, completely invisible.
Orthodontic treatment: visible or invisible?
All types of treatment are covered by mutual insurance companies and Social Security in the same way as treatments with external rings. It is the same act, even if the techniques change. Before age 16, there is coverage by Social Security on a semi-annual basis. Mutual can take charge after 16 years, but reimbursement varies greatly depending on the contract. If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to contact us to find out more.
External ceramic rings, an attractive alternative?
The external ceramic fasteners are very close to conventional fasteners but have the advantage of being very discreet. The device is not completely invisible but remains very discreet, unlike traditional rings. It has the advantage of being easier to maintain than the rings inside and there is no risk of losing them as it can happen to those who wear invisible gutters! Following a 1st appointment with the orthodontist, an impression / photo / x-ray is taken at the office. One to two weeks later, the installation takes place. Then, as with other types of treatment, there are regular appointments at the office to carry out the treatments and checks.
