Teeth-Straightening Solutions From the Teenage Years and Beyond
By the age of 13, most children have lost their baby teeth and have nearly all their permanent teeth. Even before their last baby teeth fall out, it’s often clear where crowding or misalignment may occur. This makes the early teenage years the ideal time to begin orthodontic treatment, as their smile is still developing and more responsive to correction.
While orthodontics enhances the natural beauty of a smile, its benefits go beyond aesthetics. Misaligned teeth and bite issues can make oral hygiene more challenging, cause discomfort, and even lead to chronic pain. With the right orthodontic treatment, many of these concerns can be resolved in as little as six months.
Your Teen May Benefit from Orthodontic Treatment If They Have:
- Overbite – When the upper teeth sit too far forward.
- Excessive Spacing – Gaps or spaces between teeth.
- Underbite – When the lower teeth sit too far forward.
- Crowding – When teeth overlap or are difficult to floss.
- Crossbite – A bite that does not align comfortably.
- Pain – Chronic headaches, jaw pain, or discomfort in the upper back and neck.
Early orthodontic care not only improves appearance but also promotes long-term oral health and overall well-being.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
There are several orthodontic treatment options available, tailored to each patient’s unique needs and budget. Here are a few options that may be recommended:
Traditional Braces
When you think of braces, you might picture large metal brackets and wires, but modern braces have come a long way. Today’s brackets are smaller, less noticeable, and just as effective as traditional models. They are also easier to clean and significantly more comfortable than their older counterparts.
Clear Brackets
For those looking for a more discreet option, clear brackets offer the effectiveness of traditional braces with a more subtle appearance. Popular among teens and young adults, these brackets blend in with the natural teeth, making them far less noticeable at a glance.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, have quickly become a top choice for orthodontic treatment. This system uses a series of custom-made, nearly invisible trays to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. Clear aligners provide a comfortable, precise fit and can be removed for eating, brushing, flossing, or special occasions like school dances or presentations. Each option offers unique benefits, and the best choice depends on your teen’s dental needs and lifestyle. A consultation can help determine the most effective treatment plan.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthodontic treatment is most effective during the early teenage years, before most adult teeth have fully emerged. If you are a parent, we encourage scheduling a consultation for your teenager to assess their needs. However, orthodontic solutions are also available for adults—it’s never too late to explore your options.
Getting braces put on is generally painless, but some discomfort may occur as your teeth begin shifting. Most patients describe it as a mild pressure rather than pain. If you experience any discomfort, let us know—we can offer solutions to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.
Avoid foods that could damage your braces, such as caramel, hard candy, or corn on the cob. Sticky or chewy foods like gum and popcorn can also be difficult to clean out of your braces. Additionally, limiting sugary and acidic foods is important, as they can be harder to clean off your teeth. If you have clear braces, be mindful that certain foods like beets, curry, and mac and cheese may cause staining.
Contact us immediately—don’t wait until your next scheduled appointment. Prompt repairs help prevent delays in your treatment progress.
Flossing with braces requires specialized tools like floss threaders or super floss, which are designed to navigate around brackets and wires. We’re happy to show you how to floss effectively at your next visit.
For minor corrections, treatment can take as little as six months. However, most patients wear braces for six months to two years, depending on the complexity of their case. After an oral exam, we can provide a more precise estimate for your treatment duration.
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