orthodontics
for Teens
Invest in Your Teen’s Confident Smile
The teenage years, typically between 12 and 16, mark a common period for orthodontic treatment when most permanent teeth have erupted into place. The good news is that advancements in orthodontics have made the treatment process easier than ever before. With experienced orthodontists like Dr. Bingham or Dr. Nielson, identifying spacing, crowding, bite, and alignment issues becomes a seamless process.
For some teens, Phase I treatment might have already finished, and they are now progressing to full braces or other orthodontic procedures to continue their transformative journey toward a confident smile.
Teen Orthodontics FAQs
How long does treatment take?
This is a question with no concrete answer, unfortunately. Every case is different, but the average length of the active stage of orthodontic treatment is anywhere from 6-36 months.
After this phase of treatment is complete, your teen will need to wear a retainer for as long as Dr. Bingham or Dr. Nielson feels necessary based on their individual case. We work as a team with both parents and teens to create a smile that will last a lifetime.
Can teens still play sports?
Absolutely. If your teen athlete is wearing traditional braces, it’s crucial to protect their smile to stay on track with their treatment.
We strongly recommend that they use an orthodontic mouthguard to protect their braces, and their mouth, from any potential injury. Your teen can play any contact sport if they use the proper orthodontic mouthguard.
If your teen has Invisalign, they can simply take their aligner out before practice or a game, and put it back in afterward.
What about playing a musical instrument?
Traditional metal braces might affect the way your teen plays some instruments. Invisalign is an excellent alternative treatment because removing their aligner before playing gives them no limitations.
Make an investment in your teen’s smile
Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your child’s future. By scheduling a free consultation, Dr. Nielson or Dr. Bingham will be happy to discuss the benefits of treatment with both of you, as well as any of the risks with putting off or skipping treatment.
Although adults can successfully complete orthodontic treatment, a teen’s jaws and teeth can respond quicker to orthodontic treatment, shortening their total treatment time.
Why Do I Need Orthodontics?
Our Orthodontics for Teens is specifically designed to address common orthodontic problems and uncover any underlying issues that only a skilled orthodontist can detect.
If you have any concerns about your teen’s smile, now is the right time to schedule a complimentary consultation with our orthodontic team. There are a number of thing we look for including the following issues:
- Crooked or misaligned teeth
- Crowding or spacing problems
- Bite irregularities (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
- Jaw misalignment or discomfort
- Early signs of orthodontic issues
During the consultation, our experienced orthodontists will thoroughly assess your teen’s dental condition and provide personalized recommendations to achieve a beautifully aligned smile. Remember, investing in your teen’s smile now will have long-lasting benefits for their confidence and oral health.
REQUEST YOUR FREE CONSULT