Braces for Teens

& ORTHODONTICS FOR TEENS

The teen years are already challenging enough, don’t let an unconfident smile contribute to that. As a proud mom, Dr. Saxe understands the needs of teens and the needs of their parents.

 We only want what’s best for our patients, and if that means holding off on treatment, letting your teen mature a bit before we start, or putting braces on over several appointments, we’re more than happy to do that.

What is the best age to get braces?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive their first orthodontic exam by age 7 while jaw bones are still developing and permanent teeth are beginning to erupt.

This doesn’t mean that orthodontic treatment will begin around age 7. Some patients get braces at age 8, while others get braces at 16 or 17.

Our orthodontists always listen to what our patients’ parents have to say. You know your child better than anyone else, and you know what they can handle.

Treatment Options for Teens

We provide modern braces and clear aligners that accommodate our teen patients’ preferences:

  • Self-ligating advanced braces
  • Clear aligners: Invisalign® and Spark Aligners

At your teen’s complimentary consultation, our experienced orthodontists will help you determine the best treatment route to suit your lifestyle preferences and treatment needs.

How do I know if my teen needs braces?

We provide modern braces and clear aligners that accommodate our teen patients’ preferences:

  • Self-ligating advanced braces
  • Clear aligners: Invisalign® and Spark Aligners

At your teen’s complimentary consultation, our experienced orthodontists will help you determine the best treatment route to suit your lifestyle preferences and treatment needs.

There are a number of common signs and symptoms that may indicate a need for orthodontic treatment:

  • Jaw shifting, popping or clicking
  • Difficult or pain when chewing or biting
  • Inability to chew food properly
  • Digestive issues caused by improper chewing
  • Lack of self esteem or confidence when smiling
  • Jaw pain or facial pain
  • Persistent mouth-breathing
  • Thumbsucking or tongue-thrusting habits in the younger years
  • Early, late or irregular loss of baby teeth
  • Crooked, crowded or gapped teeth
  • Facial abnormalities or irregularities

Why is teen orthodontic treatment important?

The benefits of orthodontic treatment extend far below the appearance of the smile. The smile is just the tip of the iceberg, really. A healthy smile can positively impact chewing capability, breathing easability, sleep quality, oral hygiene and self-confidence.

When the teeth and jaw bones are aligned, it’s easier to brush all surfaces of the teeth and floss between each tooth. Straightening the teeth and aligning the jaw bones minimizes the hard-to-reach spaces, making a beautiful smile easier to maintain.

The teen years are also critical for establishing self confidence! Teens who are confident in their smile can develop a strong sense of self esteem. The benefits of orthodontic treatment can be felt throughout every part of life. Especially during the formative teen years, a healthy, confident smile can open doors—socially and professionally.

Have questions about braces for teens?

If you have any questions about teen orthodontic treatment options or the importance of treatment, we want to hear from you! We’ll discuss the price of braces, as well as your treatment options.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. If your teen hasn’t received his or her complimentary orthodontic exam, we encourage you to request one today!

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Exam