When most parents think of braces, they picture a mouth full of metal and years of adjustments. But today’s orthodontic solutions have come a long way – especially with the introduction of clear aligners. If you’re wondering whether these nearly invisible trays are a safe and effective option for your child, you’re not alone.
At Kids Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in St. Louis, we proudly offer CandidPro™ clear aligner therapy, a comfortable, discreet, and results-driven alternative to traditional braces for the right candidates. Here’s what parents need to know.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are custom-made, removable trays designed to gradually shift teeth into their ideal position. Unlike traditional braces, there are no wires, brackets, or tightening appointments. Instead, your child switches to a new set of aligners every few weeks as their smile transforms.
At Kids Smiles, we use CandidPro clear aligners, known for their premium material, clinical precision, and remote monitoring capabilities.
Are Clear Aligners Safe for Kids?
Yes – when provided by a licensed dental professional with pediatric expertise. Dr. Kelly Jobe and the team at Kids Smiles carefully evaluate whether your child is a good candidate based on their age, development, and dental needs.
CandidPro clear aligners are FDA-cleared and made from BPA-free plastic. They’re custom-fit for each patient, and because they’re removable, they allow for easier brushing, flossing, and eating – reducing the risk of decay or staining sometimes associated with traditional braces.
What Makes CandidPro Different?
CandidPro stands out from other aligner brands due to its hybrid treatment model. Kids Smiles provides in-person evaluations and digital scans, then CandidPro’s network of orthodontists creates a customized treatment plan.
Using remote monitoring technology, your child’s progress can be tracked weekly with fewer in-office visits – making it perfect for busy St. Louis families.
Key benefits of CandidPro include:
- Fewer Appointments: Most treatment is monitored digitally.
- Discreet Appearance: Clear and nearly invisible during wear.
- Comfortable Fit: Smooth, irritation-free trays.
- Pediatric-Friendly: Easy to remove for eating and oral hygiene.
Who Is a Candidate for Clear Aligners?
While clear aligners are often associated with teens and adults, more and more children are eligible – especially with mild to moderate alignment issues.
Dr. Jobe typically recommends aligners for kids who:
- Have most or all of their permanent teeth
- Can commit to wearing the trays 20–22 hours a day
- Prefer a discreet option over braces
- Don’t need complex jaw adjustments
If your child is too young or their alignment issue is more advanced, we’ll suggest other orthodontic options better suited to their needs.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Treatment times vary based on your child’s needs, but most CandidPro cases take 6–12 months. Dr. Jobe will provide a custom plan during your child’s consultation and explain how progress is monitored throughout the process.
Thanks to CandidPro’s innovative system, parents can feel confident their child is on track – even between in-office checkups.
What Are the Benefits for Kids and Parents?
Parents love aligners because they’re:
- Removable for snacks and meals
- Easier to clean than braces
- Less likely to cause emergency visits (no broken wires!)
- Less time-consuming with fewer office visits
Kids appreciate the clear look, comfort, and freedom to eat popcorn and chewy treats – something they’d have to avoid with metal braces.
Why Choose Kids Smiles for Clear Aligner Therapy?
At Kids Smiles, your child’s health, confidence, and experience come first. We offer:
- Pediatric expertise with gentle, fun-focused care
- Advanced technology, including digital impressions
- A commitment to personalized treatment plans
- Experience with CandidPro clear aligners
- A warm, family-friendly environment in St. Louis
We understand that orthodontic decisions can feel overwhelming – but we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to Learn If Clear Aligners Are Right for Your Child?
Give your child the gift of a confident, healthy smile – without the hassle of brackets and wires. Contact Kids Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in St. Louis today to see if CandidPro clear aligners are the right fit for your family.
