Adolescent Treatment

For most teens, braces are a rite of passage: They’re merely another expression of the changes teens undergo during these years, along with growth in stature, hipper fashion and musical tastes, and an increasing degree of self-awareness. But is there some reason why orthodontic appliances and teens inevitably go together? In a word: Yes.

There are several very good reasons why adolescence is the ideal time for orthodontic treatment, and sometimes even earlier is called for. One of them has to do with tooth development: There is no single timetable for every child, but generally by the time a child reaches 11-13 years of age, the deciduous (baby) teeth have all been lost and the permanent ones have all come in. This is where we can go ahead and correct the problems that cause a bad bite (malocclusion), improper tooth spacing, or unusual alignment.

Orthodontic problems don’t improve with age; they become harder to treat. Most orthodontic problems are easier to treat during the teen years because the body is still growing rapidly. Whether we use standard braces or appliances like palatal expanders (example photo below), we can improve appearance and function quickly. Later in life, when the bones of the face and jaw are fully grown, many conditions are harder (and more costly) to treat.

There is even a social component to getting orthodontic treatment as a teenager. If you need braces, you’re not alone! You’ll probably notice some of your friends in our office, and you may even make some new ones as you go through the process together. When it’s all done, you’ll have a smile you can feel proud of and benefits that will last a lifetime.

The Orthodontic Treatment Process

Are you wondering what to expect when you visit us for orthodontic care? It really depends on the treatment you need.

At your first visit, we’ll take pictures and X-rays of your mouth and may also make a model of your bite. Once we’ve gathered all the information, we’ll create a treatment plan for you. It might include traditional braces, with or without rubber bands. Sometimes, we may suggest using a special appliance for a short time.

Here are a few common orthodontic options we might recommend:

Metal Braces

You’ve probably heard of these before. The metal braces are small and comfortable compared to their old counterparts. You can even customize them with fun-colored rubber bands on the brackets.

Clear Braces

These clear braces use ceramic or clear materials that blend in with your teeth. They work well in many cases and are less noticeable than metal ones. However, they may cost a bit more.

Clear Aligners

These are clear plastic aligning trays that fit over your teeth. You wear them for about 22 hours a day, and they slowly move your teeth into the proper position. They used to be just for adults, but now some types are made for teens too. They even have wear indicators so we know how often they’re being used. The best part? They’re almost invisible.

Lingual Braces

These braces are placed on the back of your teeth, so no one can see them. They’re a great choice if you want the most hidden option possible.

Other Orthodontic Appliances

Sometimes, we use different devices to help move teeth or adjust the jaw. These can be small appliances inside your mouth or headgear worn outside. Don’t worry—these tools are temporary and help create lasting results.

How Long Will I Wear Braces or Aligners?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Treatment time depends on your specific needs. On average, active treatment lasts anywhere from 6 to 30 months. After that, you’ll wear a retainer for a few more months to keep your teeth in their new positions.
Once your treatment is done, your new smile will be something you can enjoy for life.