Teen Treatment
It is ideal to begin teen orthodontics on your adolescent once they have at least lost most of their baby teeth and beginning their growth spurts. The goal of this treatment process is to correct all crooked, crowded teeth and a misaligned jaw for a lifetime of optimal orthodontic health. Straighter teeth prevent plaque accumulating and make it easier for your teen to maintain proper oral hygiene throughout life decreasing their risks for gum disease and cavities.
Teens’ orthodontics can provide your adolescent with confidence and smile that will last a lifetime!
What are some signs my teen may need treatment
Although the best way to determine if your child is a candidate for orthodontic treatment is to come in for a consultation, here are some things you can look for at home that may suggest they are a good candidate for teenage treatment:
Crossbites (front teeth)
Deep bite
Crossbites (back teeth)
Open bite
Crowded teeth
Gapped teeth
Underbite
Large overbites
Did you know?
Straighter teeth make it harder to build up tartar and bacteria, decreasing your risk for gum disease and dental decay?
See if you would benefit from orthodontic treatment. Consultations are always free & fun!
What are the benefits of teen treatment?
Improve smile esthetics and confidence
Improve bite and longevity of teeth
Improve cleansability of teeth upon alignment
Ideal timing with growth to decrease need for jaw surgery
Most orthodontic issues are effectively addressed during the teenage years. Orthodontic treatment in adolescence leverages the natural growth phase to achieve optimal results. Teens are still growing, which allows for easier tooth movement and jaw alignment, potentially reducing the length of treatment. Addressing orthodontic concerns during this time can prevent future dental problems like excessive wear or gum disease. Moreover, treatment in the teenage years often boosts self-esteem by giving teens a confident smile at a pivotal stage in their development, and it ensures a lifetime of easier oral care and improved functionality.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as treatment duration varies for each individual. On average, the active phase of orthodontic treatment typically lasts between 6 to 36 months. Once this phase is complete, your teen will need to wear a retainer for as long as Dr. Greg recommends, depending on their unique needs. We collaborate closely with both parents and teens to ensure we create a smile that lasts a lifetime
Absolutely! If your teen athlete has traditional braces, protecting their smile is essential to stay on course with their treatment. We highly recommend using an orthodontic mouthguard to safeguard both their braces and mouth from potential injuries. With the right mouthguard, your teen can safely participate in any contact sport. If your teen is wearing aligners, they can simply remove their aligners before practice or games and put them back in afterward
In most cases, yes. Phase 1 treatment typically addresses specific early issues, such as jaw growth or overcrowding, but it doesn't usually complete the full orthodontic process. Phase 2 treatment is often necessary to fine-tune tooth alignment and ensure a long-lasting, healthy smile once all permanent teeth have erupted. Every case is unique, and Dr. Greg will assess your child’s progress to determine the need for Phase 2 treatment based on their individual needs.
Several factors influence the cost of your teen’s orthodontic treatment, such as the severity of their misalignment, the length of treatment, and your insurance coverage. Since every patient’s needs are different, the cost can vary. To get an accurate estimate, it’s best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Greg, who can provide a personalized breakdown of the expenses for your teen's treatment.
