Starting a new school year can be exciting, but it also comes with new routines that may make it harder for teens to stay consistent with their Invisalign treatment. Between busy schedules, social activities, and packed lunches, it’s easy for them to forget to wear or care for their aligners. With the right strategies, though, your teen can stay on track and keep their smile moving in the right direction.
Pack an Invisalign Care Kit
A small kit tucked into a backpack can make it much easier for your teen to manage Invisalign at school. Include a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, floss picks, and a case for their aligners. This ensures they can brush after lunch and safely store their aligners if they need to take them out during meals or snacks. Having everything on hand removes excuses and helps build good habits.
Stick to the 22-Hour Rule
For Invisalign to work effectively, aligners need to be worn 20–22 hours a day. During the school day, it’s easy to get distracted and leave them out for too long. Remind your teen to put their aligners back in right after eating and brushing. Setting phone reminders or using the Invisalign app can help them stay accountable.
Choose the Right Foods and Drinks
One of the benefits of Invisalign is that there are no food restrictions, since aligners should always be removed before eating. Still, it’s important for teens to avoid sugary drinks like soda or sports drinks while wearing aligners, as these can trap sugar against the teeth and increase the risk of cavities. Encourage them to stick to water during class and activities for both convenience and dental health.
Encourage Confidence and Responsibility
Teens may feel self-conscious about removing aligners in front of friends, but encouraging confidence can make a big difference. Remind them that many of their peers are also wearing orthodontic appliances and that sticking with their treatment will pay off with a healthier, straighter smile. Taking responsibility for their aligners now also helps build independence and good habits for the future.
Schedule Regular Check-Ins
Even with the best intentions, teens may need a little extra accountability. Checking in with your teen about their progress and scheduling routine visits with the dentist ensures their treatment stays on track. These appointments also give your dentist a chance to make any necessary adjustments and answer questions about caring for Invisalign at school.
With the right support and preparation, your teen can balance a busy school life while making steady progress toward their best smile.
About the Practice
At Johnson Family Dental, we’re proud to offer customized Invisalign treatment for teens and adults. Dr. Alex J. Johnson is committed to making orthodontic care as convenient and effective as possible, even during the busy school year. With personalized guidance and advanced treatment planning, our team helps patients achieve straighter, healthier smiles with confidence.
Call us at (727) 786-7550 or request an appointment online.