06
Oct
Common Questions Parents Have About Their Child’s Responsibility with Invisalign Clear Aligners
Choosing orthodontic treatment for your child is a big decision, and many parents wonder whether their son or daughter is responsible enough for Invisalign. Since these aligners are removable, concerns about losing, damaging, or forgetting to wear them are very common. At Stein Family Dentistry, Dr. Andy Stein helps families in Spokane and surrounding communities, including Eagle Ridge, Washington, explore whether Invisalign is the right choice.
Below are answers to some of the most frequent questions parents ask:
Will my child wear the aligners as directed?
Invisalign works best when worn 20 – 22 hours per day, which requires commitment. Many parents worry that their child might forget. Fortunately, kids and teens often adapt quickly once they see how discreet and comfortable Invisalign feels compared to traditional braces. Parents can help by setting reminders or checking in during the early weeks to ensure consistent wear.
What if my child loses an aligner?
Because the aligners are removable, it’s possible they could be misplaced. The good news is that Invisalign provides replacement options if an aligner is lost. In the meantime, your child may be able to wear a previous or next aligner to stay on track. At Stein Family Dentistry, we help families handle these situations with minimal disruption to treatment. Teaching your child to always store aligners in their case when not in use can significantly reduce the risk of loss.
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New Patients: (509) 463-1770 | Existing Patients: (509) 747-5586
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Can the aligners break or tear?
Aligners are made from durable, medical-grade plastic, but like any orthodontic device, they can be damaged if not handled properly. Biting down too hard when removing them or using the wrong tools to pry them out can cause small cracks or tears. If this happens, our team can evaluate whether the aligner should be replaced or if your child can continue wearing it until the next stage. With a little guidance, most kids quickly learn how to safely insert and remove them.
How can I tell if my child is following the plan?
Parents often want reassurance that treatment isn’t being wasted. Invisalign Teen includes small blue compliance indicators that fade as the aligners are worn. This gives both you and the dentist a way to monitor usage. Additionally, check-ins at Stein Family Dentistry allow Dr. Stein to evaluate your child’s progress and catch any compliance issues early on.
Is Invisalign really a good option for kids and teens?
Yes—if your child is motivated and responsible. Invisalign offers many benefits, including improved comfort, easier brushing and flossing, and a nearly invisible look that boosts confidence. While not every child is a perfect candidate, many parents find that their kids are more diligent with Invisalign than expected because they genuinely prefer it to braces. A consultation can help determine if your child is ready for this level of responsibility.
Discover Invisalign Options in Spokane and Eagle Ridge, WA
If you’re wondering whether Invisalign is right for your child, our team at Stein Family Dentistry can guide you through the process. We proudly welcome families from Spokane and surrounding areas such as Eagle Ridge, WA, and we’ll help you weigh the benefits and responsibilities of clear aligners. Call (509) 463-1770 or schedule a consultation and learn more about Invisalign for your child.
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Dr. Andy Stein is the owner and Lead Dentist of Stein Family Dentistry. He graduated from Oregon Institute of Technology with a Degree in Biology and Business, received his Doctorate of Medical Dentistry from the Oregon Health Science University, and completed his general practice residency program at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Salt Lake City. He worked for a community health center for three years, developing his skills in and passion for dentistry.
Dr. Stein is a member of the American Dental Association, Washington State Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and the Frank Spear Study Club. He was an active leader in the Southern Oregon Dental Society before relocating to Spokane. He is very enthusiastic about continuing education.