What Are Invisalign Clear Aligners?

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic system that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move teeth into better alignment — without brackets or wires. For younger patients, Invisalign First is specifically designed to treat children between ages 6–10 who are in the early stages of dental development.

At Eggemeyer & Graham Orthodontics, we offer Invisalign for kids in Wilmette, IL with personalized care and expert planning. Whether your child is showing signs of misalignment or your dentist has recommended an early orthodontic evaluation, our team is here to guide you through every step with confidence and clarity.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Invisalign First works just like traditional Invisalign, but it’s adapted for children who still have a mix of baby and permanent teeth. Here’s how the process typically works:

  1. Consultation — We examine your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw development to determine if early treatment is recommended.
  2. Digital Scanning — Using a comfortable, mess-free scanner, we create a digital model of your child’s mouth.
  3. Treatment Planning — Our orthodontists design a custom treatment plan using advanced 3D software.
  4. Aligner Fabrication — Your child receives a series of clear aligners that are worn and changed out every 1–2 weeks.
  5. Regular Check-Ins — We monitor your child’s progress at scheduled visits and adjust the plan as needed.
  6. Transition to Phase 2 (if needed) — Once growth is complete, we’ll evaluate whether additional treatment is required during the teen years.

Children wear their aligners for 20–22 hours per day and remove them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss.

Cost of Invisalign Clear Aligners in Wilmette, IL

The cost of Invisalign for kids depends on the complexity of treatment, how long it’s needed, and whether your child will require future orthodontic phases.

Factors that influence cost include:

  • Type and length of early treatment (Phase 1)
  • Amount of correction needed
  • Insurance coverage and orthodontic benefits
  • Potential need for Phase 2 (teen) treatment later

At Eggemeyer & Graham Orthodontics, we make financial planning easy with:

  • Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
  • Flexible, interest-free payment plans
  • Insurance coordination and support

We’ll walk you through every cost and option during your child’s consultation — so you feel informed and prepared.

Why Choose Invisalign for Your Child?

Invisalign First is a gentle, adaptable option for kids with early orthodontic needs. Unlike traditional appliances, which can be bulky or uncomfortable, Invisalign aligners are smooth, removable, and easier to adjust to.

Here’s why parents in Wilmette are choosing Invisalign for their kids:

  • Comfortable to wear — No wires or brackets to poke or irritate
  • Removable for meals — No food restrictions, which makes mealtimes easier for families
  • Easy to clean — Kids can brush and floss without navigating around brackets
  • Fewer emergencies — No broken wires or loose brackets
  • Less time in the chair — Fewer in-office adjustments compared to traditional braces
  • Encourages responsibility — Wearing aligners can help kids build healthy habits and take ownership of their care

When introduced at the right time, Invisalign First can help guide your child’s growth and reduce the need for more complex treatment later.

When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic checkup by age 7 — even if all the permanent teeth haven’t come in yet. This early evaluation allows us to monitor how your child’s smile is developing and determine if early intervention like Invisalign First is beneficial.

We may recommend Invisalign First if your child is experiencing:

  • Crowding or spacing concerns
  • Bite alignment issues (underbite, overbite, crossbite)
  • Difficulty chewing or speaking
  • Prolonged thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits
  • A mix of baby and permanent teeth with alignment concerns

Not all children will need treatment at this age, but an early evaluation gives you peace of mind — and helps us intervene only if and when it’s truly needed.

Wilmette Children’s Invisalign Specialist

At Eggemeyer & Graham Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer Invisalign First for kids in Wilmette, IL and throughout the North Shore. Our board-certified orthodontists — Dr. Jenny Eggemeyer and Dr. Libby Graham — have extensive experience treating younger patients and helping families understand their options with honesty and compassion.

We know how important it is for both kids and parents to feel comfortable and confident throughout the orthodontic journey. That’s why we take the time to explain every step clearly, answer questions with patience, and make every visit as stress-free as possible.

Why Choose Eggemeyer & Graham Orthodontics?

Our practice is built on relationships — and we’re proud to be the trusted orthodontic home for so many Wilmette-area families.

Here’s what makes our Invisalign experience for kids stand out:

  • Specialists you can trust — Every case is overseen by board-certified orthodontists
  • Kid-friendly technology — No goopy molds, no scary tools — just modern, comfortable care
  • Flexible scheduling and payment options — We make care easier for working parents
  • Personalized care — We treat every child like they’re part of our orthodontic family

From first evaluation to final retainer, we’re with your child every step of the way.