For parents, their child’s health comes first, and the health of their teeth is no exception. Many ask the question: when is the best time to begin orthodontic treatment? Increasingly, modern dentistry’s answer is early, or so-called interceptive, treatment.[1][2] At the Foxxi clinic, we are proud to use the latest technology, the Invisalign First system, a revolutionary, gentle and child-friendly solution for growing smiles.
Orthodontics is not only about aesthetics. Treatment started early, between the ages of 6 and 10, helps prevent more serious problems later on.[3][4][5] At this age the jawbones are still growing, so the orthodontist can effectively guide their development, thereby ensuring adequate space for the permanent teeth.[1][3][6][7]
The main benefits of early treatment:
Creating space: Helps prevent crowding by providing room for the permanent teeth that are about to erupt.[4][8]
Correcting bite irregularities: Effectively treats crossbite, deep bite or open bite.[8][9]
Guiding jaw growth: Promotes the harmonious development of the jawbones, which also improves facial symmetry.[1][7][10]
Breaking bad habits: Can help eliminate habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, which negatively affect the development of the dentition.[9][11]
Building confidence: A more even set of teeth improves a child’s appearance and self-confidence.[6][7][9][12]
The Invisalign First system was developed specifically for children aged 6 to 10 with mixed dentition (both baby teeth and permanent teeth).[3][4][8][13][14] Unlike traditional fixed braces, this system consists of a series of clear, removable aligners designed specifically for a child’s growing mouth.[5][14]
How does Invisalign First work?
Digital planning: Treatment begins with a painless 3D digital impression (scan). Then, using specialised software, the orthodontist precisely plans out the entire treatment process.
Custom aligners: Based on the digital plan, the personalised clear aligners are manufactured. The child usually needs to switch to a new aligner every 1 to 2 weeks.
Gentle tooth movement: Each aligner moves the teeth a little closer to the desired position, while making room for the permanent teeth and guiding the growth of the jawbones.[5][14]
Invisalign First offers a number of advantages that make it appealing to children and parents alike.
| Feature | Invisalign First | Traditional metal braces |
| Comfort | Made of smooth plastic, with no sharp, irritating metal parts.[5][9][15][16] | The metal brackets and wires can irritate the lining of the mouth.[5][15] |
| Hygiene | The aligners can be removed for brushing and eating, so the teeth can be kept perfectly clean.[9][11][15][16] | Cleaning is difficult, and plaque builds up more easily around the brackets.[11][16] |
| Eating | There are no dietary restrictions; the child can eat anything.[9][11][15][17] | Hard and sticky foods must be avoided.[15] |
| Aesthetics | The aligners are almost completely invisible, so the child can smile with confidence even during treatment.[5][9][15] | The metal brackets and wires are clearly visible. |
| Emergencies | Fewer emergency visits, with no broken brackets or poking wires.[5][9][15][18] | Breakages are common and require immediate dental attention. |
Invisalign First can be an ideal choice for treating most irregularities that occur during the mixed dentition stage, such as:
Crowding or excessive gaps between the teeth[8][17][19][20]
Crossbite or open bite[4][9]
Narrow dental arches that require expansion[8][17][19][20]
It is important to know that the success of the treatment largely depends on the child’s cooperation, as the aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day.[15][16][17]
At the Foxxi clinic, we believe that a positive first experience lays the foundation for a child’s lifelong relationship with dental care. Invisalign First is a modern, effective and child-friendly solution that allows orthodontics to be not an unpleasant ordeal, but an exciting journey towards a healthy and beautiful smile.
This article was prepared by the Foxxi Buda Orthodontics team, reviewed by Dr. Magyar Dominika PhD, orthodontic specialist
Scientific sources used:
Other sources:
Types of Braces – Find the One That’s Best for You!
The Orthodontic Treatment Process Step by Step
Orthodontics: How to Live in Harmony with Your Braces
Underbite: More Than Just an Aesthetic Concern
Hyrax Appliance – Palatal Expansion in Children and Adults
