Braces for Teens
& ORTHODONTICS FOR TEENS
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.
