If you’re a parent exploring early orthodontic options for your child, you may have heard of Invisalign First — a newer approach to orthodontic treatment designed specifically for growing smiles.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign First uses clear, removable aligners to address developing alignment and bite issues in younger patients. It’s part of a treatment philosophy known as Phase 1 orthodontics, which focuses on early intervention to guide proper growth and avoid more extensive correction later on.
In this guide, you’ll learn what Invisalign First is, how it works, who it’s for, and why more parents are considering this clear alternative for their children’s orthodontic care.
What Is Invisalign First?
Invisalign First is an early orthodontic treatment option developed for children ages 6 to 10 who may need dental correction before all of their permanent teeth have erupted. It uses clear aligners — similar to those used in teen and adult Invisalign treatment — but is specially designed for the unique needs of younger patients.
The goal of Invisalign First is to:
- Guide the development of the jaw and dental arches
- Create space for incoming permanent teeth
- Correct bite issues early on
- Address crowding or spacing concerns
- Promote long-term oral health and function
The treatment typically takes place during the mixed dentition stage — when a child still has some baby teeth and some adult teeth.
Why Start Orthodontic Treatment Early?
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, orthodontists can identify potential concerns with jaw growth, bite alignment, and crowding — even before all the adult teeth are in place.
Early treatment can:
- Reduce or eliminate the need for extractions later
- Shorten or simplify Phase 2 treatment during the teen years
- Improve facial symmetry and jaw development
- Boost a child’s confidence by addressing visible issues early
- Support better oral hygiene by aligning teeth and creating space
Invisalign First is one way to accomplish these early treatment goals in a less noticeable, more comfortable way than traditional braces.
How Invisalign First Works
Invisalign First works similarly to standard Invisalign. Your child will receive a series of custom-made, BPA-free plastic aligners that apply gentle pressure to move the teeth into better positions over time.
Key features of Invisalign First:
- Designed for growing mouths — Aligners accommodate erupting teeth and ongoing jaw development.
- Removable — Kids can take them out to eat, brush, and floss.
- Comfortable — Smooth edges reduce the risk of irritation compared to metal brackets and wires.
- Effective — Addresses a wide range of orthodontic issues, including arch development, expansion, crowding, spacing, and more.
Aligners are typically worn for 20–22 hours per day and changed every 1–2 weeks, depending on the treatment plan.
What Conditions Can Invisalign First Treat?
Invisalign First is a versatile treatment option for many early orthodontic problems, including:
- Crowded teeth — When there isn’t enough room in the jaw for all the teeth
- Spacing issues — Gaps between baby teeth or adult teeth that may affect alignment
- Narrow dental arches — Invisalign First can help expand the arches to allow proper eruption of permanent teeth
- Underbites and overbites — Early correction of jaw position can prevent future complications
- Crossbites — When upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside
Not every child is a candidate, but many mild to moderate issues can be treated successfully with Invisalign First.
Is My Child a Candidate for Invisalign First?
Invisalign First may be a great choice if your child:
- Is between the ages of 6 and 10
- Has a mix of baby and adult teeth
- Shows signs of bite or spacing issues
- Is responsible enough to wear aligners as directed
- Would prefer a discreet and removable treatment option
An orthodontic evaluation is the best way to determine if Invisalign First is the right fit. An experienced provider will examine your child’s teeth, jaw development, and overall oral health before recommending any treatment.
Benefits of Invisalign First for Kids
1. Discreet Appearance
Clear aligners are much less noticeable than braces, helping children feel more confident in social or school settings.
2. Removable Convenience
Because aligners can be taken out, kids can eat normally and brush and floss more easily than they could with braces.
3. Fewer Emergencies
No wires or brackets mean no broken hardware or uncomfortable poking — and fewer unexpected trips to the orthodontist.
4. Comfortable Fit
Each aligner is custom-made to fit snugly and comfortably, making the experience smoother from day one.
5. Proactive Approach
Early treatment helps guide healthy development and may reduce the need for more intensive correction during adolescence.
How Long Does Invisalign First Take?
Treatment time varies based on your child’s specific needs. On average, Invisalign First is worn for 6 to 12 months, though it may be shorter or longer depending on how early the issue is addressed and how well the aligners are worn.
After Phase 1 treatment is complete, most children will enter a rest period to allow for continued dental development. If needed, Phase 2 treatment (often using Invisalign Teen or braces) can begin once all adult teeth have come in.
What Happens After Invisalign First?
After the first phase of treatment, your child may:
- Wear a retainer to hold the progress in place
- Enter a resting phase while remaining teeth grow in
- Have regular monitoring visits to check development
- Begin Phase 2 treatment when appropriate
This two-phase approach helps create the healthiest foundation possible for a functional, beautiful smile that lasts into adulthood.
Wondering If Invisalign First Is Right for Your Child?
If you’re considering early orthodontic care, clear aligners could be a comfortable and effective solution for your child. Invisalign First offers a proactive, flexible alternative to traditional braces — and it’s designed with growing smiles in mind.
At Scott Orthodontics, we proudly offer Invisalign First to children across Mitchellville, Silver Spring, and surrounding Maryland communities. Our team specializes in creating kid-friendly experiences and customized treatment plans that fit each child’s needs.
Schedule a free consultation today to learn more about Invisalign First and take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile for your child.
