Oct 31, 2025

Can Children Have Invisalign®? Exploring Invisalign® First and Braces for Kids

Thinking about orthodontic treatment for your child can feel like a big decision. You want a healthy bite, a confident smile, and a process that fits family life. You might also be wondering whether clear aligners are suitable for younger patients, or if fixed braces are a better fit.

In this guide, our Specialist Orthodontists explain how Invisalign® First compares with traditional braces for children. You will learn when each option works best, what to expect, and how to choose a plan that supports your child’s smile and your routine.

Can Children Have Invisalign®?

Yes — some children can. Invisalign® now includes options designed specifically for growing mouths, such as Invisalign® First.

The key factor is readiness. Aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours per day to work effectively. If your child tends to misplace things or struggles with routines, braces may be the better choice.

If your child is responsible, motivated, and excited by the idea of removable aligners, Invisalign® can be an excellent match.

Best next step: Book an assessment with a Specialist Orthodontist to determine whether aligners or braces are right for your child.

What Is Invisalign® First?

Invisalign® First is a clear aligner system made for children who still have a mix of baby and adult teeth. It guides jaw growth, creates space for erupting teeth, and corrects early bite problems gently.

Common goals include:

• Creating space for adult teeth
• Correcting crossbites, open bites, or overjets
• Improving alignment and hygiene

Aligners are removable for eating and brushing, which many children love. At Embrace Orthodontics, we use Digital Monitoring so parents can send scans from a smartphone for quick feedback between visits — perfect for busy families.

Is Invisalign® First Right for My Child?

It can be, if:

• Your child can wear aligners as instructed
• You can supervise wear, storage, and hygiene
• The bite goals match what aligners can achieve

It may not be, if:

• Aligners are often lost or forgotten
• Your child prefers minimal responsibility
• The bite issue needs fixed appliances for accuracy

A first orthodontic assessment around age 7 helps spot early concerns and determine whether observation, early treatment, or later intervention is best.

Braces vs Aligners for Kids

Both options safely move teeth — the best choice depends on your child’s personality and needs.

Braces:

• Fixed to teeth, working 24/7 without relying on wear time
• Excellent for younger children who might forget aligners

Invisalign® Aligners:

• Removable and nearly invisible
• Ideal for responsible kids who want flexibility for meals, sport, and music

If you are comparing both, meet with a Specialist Orthodontist in Canberra for tailored advice.

Pros and Cons of Invisalign® for Children

Pros:

• Nearly invisible and confidence-boosting
• Removable for eating, brushing, and flossing
• Digitally planned movements with 3D previews
• Fewer emergency visits (no broken brackets)
• Works well with Digital Monitoring for fewer in-person visits

Cons:

• Success depends on consistent wear (20–22 hours daily)
• Aligners can be lost or damaged
• Some movements are simpler with braces
• Younger kids may need close supervision

If you think aligners suit your child’s personality, book a complimentary aligner check to confirm suitability and learn the day-to-day routine.

Why Fixed Braces Are Often Preferred for Younger Kids

Fixed braces remove the variable of compliance — they work around the clock. For children under 12, this reliability often makes braces the recommended choice.

Braces may be better when:

• Crowding is significant
• Bite correction requires continuous force
• Aligners are likely to be forgotten

Modern braces are smaller, smoother, and more comfortable than ever. For image-conscious children, clear ceramic braces can offer a subtle alternative. You can visit our Canberra Belconnen Orthodontist page to learn more.

Comfort, Hygiene, and Lifestyle

Comfort:
 Both aligners and braces can cause mild tenderness initially. This usually settles after a few days.

Hygiene:

• Aligners: Rinse and brush daily; clean teeth before reinserting.
• Braces: Brush carefully around brackets; use interdental brushes and fluoride toothpaste.

Sport and music:

• Aligners: Can be removed for playing instruments or contact sports.
• Braces: Use a custom mouthguard during contact sports for protection.

Our team provides hygiene guidance, wax for comfort, and sport mouthguard advice at every stage.

What to Expect at Embrace Orthodontics

Your child’s first visit includes:

• Photos, digital scans, and X-rays (if required)
• A comprehensive assessment of teeth and jaw growth
• A clear discussion of timing and treatment options

If Invisalign® is suitable, we’ll show you the digital plan and set up Digital Monitoring.
 If braces are better, we’ll outline metal and clear options with easy cleaning tips.

If you’re exploring aligners for yourself too, learn more about Invisalign® Canberra to see how treatment fits your routine.

How to Choose the Best Path

Ask yourself:

• Will my child wear aligners most of the day?
• Is the bite better suited to fixed braces?
• Do we prefer the predictability of braces or the flexibility of aligners?
• Can we support daily hygiene and care at home?

The best treatment is the one your child can stick with — that fits their needs and your family life.

Summary and Next Steps

Children can have Invisalign®, and Invisalign® First offers a gentle, modern option for growing smiles. Fixed braces remain a reliable choice for younger kids, especially when consistent wear might be tricky.

Both treatments deliver beautiful, healthy results when matched to the right child at the right time.

Book a consultation with Embrace Orthodontics in Manuka, Belconnen, or Gungahlin to explore braces and aligner options. Our friendly team will help you choose with confidence, explain costs and timelines clearly, and support your child at every step.