The most ideal time for treatment of majority of orthodontic problems is during the early teen years when the last baby teeth are about to be lost and the adult teeth erupt. It is crucial that this “window of opportunity” for influencing the patient’s jaw growth is not lost by delaying treatment.
Teenagers are in an important stage in their development and are building the foundation for their future. A pleasant and confident smile is a big concern for teens. Appearance is important and teens want to look their best, and having straight teeth is a huge confidence booster! The orthodontist can help your children secure a bright future!
Different teens will have different needs. Some teens will have the option to choose between braces and Invisalign™ Teen. Other teens may prefer braces which are more subtle looking or invisible. Be sure to discuss the various options with your orthodontist, so that you can get the appliance that is right for you. It’s also important to talk with your orthodontist about what you or your teen can expect from the braces. If you have questions about any potential discomfort or adjustments needed in relation to the braces, be sure to bring these up so that you can get the information you need.
There are other concerns which can be very relevant for teens. If your teen is a smoker, then your dentist can discuss the various health and dental consequences that are linked to smoking. Another issue involves mouth piercings, which can cause or exacerbate dental problems. It might be possible to cause damage to teeth if he or she ends up biting a metal piercing. A metal piercing can also be the site for a possible mouth infection. It might also make certain areas difficult to clean, leading to the buildup of harmful mouth bacteria. All these and more can be discussed with your dentist, so that at the very least, you and your teen are aware of these possible consequences.
In addition, there is also the need to make sure that teens are developing good dental habits. At the office we will educate your teen on the proper way to brush teeth, the importance of fluoride toothpaste and flossing, and so on. They might also need to be reminded to wear a mouth guard if they play active sports where mouth injuries are possible. In the end, it’s important for teens to realize that they need to play an active part in ensuring that their teeth are well taken care of.
Teen Orthodontics
Straightening a smile can undoubtedly have a great effect on the future of our kids, boosting their confidence and setting them on a path toward a brighter future. In this essential guide, we’ll explore teen orthodontics for ages 12–19, covering everything from the differences between braces and clear aligners to necessary lifestyle adjustments.
Let’s see how you can support your teenager’s dental health here.
Introduction of Orthodontics for Teens
Our kids are growing rapidly, both physically and mentally. As parents, we know that the teenage years can be challenging. While we’re excited to see our little kid turn into a young adult, it can sometimes be daunting to think about all the changes they’re going through—including changes in their smile.
That’s why we’re here to guide you through orthodontics for teens and teenage braces. Whether your teenager is just starting to show signs of orthodontic problems or is already getting teenage braces, this guide will provide all the information you need to ensure your teenager will have a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
So, what are the most common orthodontic problems that our teenagers may encounter, and how can braces or clear aligners help? Keep reading to find out.
The Right Time for Teen Orthodontics
According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), every child should see an orthodontist by age 7. At this age, most children have a mix of baby and adult teeth, making it easier for orthodontists to evaluate any potential orthodontic issues. Early treatment can prevent dental issues—including crowded teeth, jaw misalignment, and many other dental problems—from becoming problematic down the line and can also save you thousands of dollars.
However, many kids seek orthodontic treatment when they get older and reach their teenage years. The good news for these teens is that there is still a high possibility of achieving excellent, lifelong results. Because your bones are still malleable, the treatment can be highly effective.
So, our advice to all teens is to stop overthinking or feeling self-conscious and ask your parents to schedule an appointment with an orthodontist.
Different Types of Dental Braces for Teenagers
We have a few different types of teenage braces, including:
- Traditional metal braces: Metal braces are the most common type of teenage braces and also the strongest and most durable option, consisting of high-grade stainless steel. They can be customized with different color bands to reflect your unique character, lifestyle, and way of thinking.
- Ceramic Braces: Ceramic braces are a popular type of teenage braces, featuring clear or tooth-colored brackets that are more aesthetically pleasing and less noticeable than metal braces. They offer similar effectiveness to metal braces but are more fragile and tend to be more expensive. However, ceramic braces are an excellent option for teens who prefer a less visible form of teenage braces.
- Clear Aligners (Invisalign): Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners instead of brackets and wires. They are virtually invisible and generally more comfortable than traditional braces or ceramic braces. Invisalign can effectively address mild to moderate dental issues, but achieving optimal, long-lasting results requires a commitment to wearing them as prescribed. To ensure a beautiful, lasting smile, you should wear the aligners for 20–22 hours per day.
How to Prepare for an Orthodontic Appointment?
Here are a few tips to help you prepare:
- Schedule the appointment at a convenient time: Choose a date and time when you feel free and relaxed, so you won’t be rushed or anxious during the appointment.
- Brush and floss your teeth before the appointment: This helps your orthodontist get a clear view of your teeth.
- Wear comfortable clothing: This will help you stay relaxed and prevent distractions during the appointment.
- Bring along any questions or concerns: Feel free to ask your orthodontist to address them.
Tips to Taking Care of Your Teenage Braces
If your orthodontist prescribes braces, congratulations! You’re on your way to achieving your dream smile. Here are a few tips to help you take good care of your teenage braces:
- Maintain oral hygiene: Brush and floss after each meal to prevent tooth decay and staining. Brushing with braces can be challenging, but you need to carefully brush around your brackets and wires. Use a floss threader to clean between your teeth and braces.
- Follow the prescribed diet: Avoid hard and sticky foods. Chewing gum, crusty bread, bagels, candy, and similar items can easily damage your braces or cause them to become misaligned. If you eat something sticky or hard, be sure to brush and floss carefully afterward.
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports: If you’re engaged in activities that could result in a blow to the mouth, wear a custom-fit mouthguard to protect your teeth, gums, and braces from injury.
- Be careful with toothpicks and other sharp objects: Avoid using toothpicks or any sharp objects while you have teenage braces, as they can damage your braces or the soft tissues in your mouth.
- Keep up with appointments and follow your orthodontist’s instructions: Attend your scheduled appointments so your orthodontist can monitor the progress of your treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
The Cost Factors Involved in Teen Orthodontics
The cost of teenage braces varies depending on several factors, including the severity of the misalignment, the type of braces chosen, and whether insurance covers part of the cost.
On average, the cost of metal braces ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, ceramic braces range between $4,000 and $8,000, and the cost of Invisalign Teen is around $3,000 to $7,000.
However, your insurance may cover part of your teen’s orthodontic treatment. Check with your insurance provider to see what coverage is available before deciding on treatment.
At York Orthodontics, we take on the important duty of ensuring teens do not feel self-conscious about their misaligned smiles due to financial issues. We offer many flexible payment plans, including weekly or monthly installments, to make orthodontic treatment more affordable for teens.
If you have any questions or need personalized advice on teen orthodontics, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you and your teen achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Concerns When Teens Are Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment
There are some concerns that can be very relevant for teens undergoing orthodontic treatment:
- Smoking: If your teen is a smoker, your dentist can discuss the various health and dental consequences linked to smoking. Smoking can negatively affect oral health, including staining teeth, causing bad breath, and increasing the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
- Mouth piercings: Mouth piercings can cause or exacerbate dental problems. Biting down on a metal piercing can damage teeth, and the piercing site can become infected. Additionally, piercings can make certain areas difficult to clean, leading to the buildup of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
All these issues and more can be discussed with your dentist, so you and your teen are aware of these possible consequences and can make informed decisions about their oral health.
Aftercare: Teeth After Braces
Taking care of your teeth after getting teenage braces is crucial. Here are a few essential steps to maintain healthy teeth and gums:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
- Floss at least once a day.
- Avoid eating hard, sticky, and chewy foods.
- Wear a mouthguard when playing active sports where mouth injuries are possible.
- Visit your orthodontist regularly for checkups, cleanings, and adjustments if required.
If orthodontic emergencies happen or you have any questions or concerns about dental care after getting teenage braces, feel free to contact us. We provide you with specific instructions on how to properly care for your teeth and gums.
Conclusion
Every teen has unique needs, and choosing the right orthodontic option is crucial. Discuss all available treatments with your orthodontist to find the best fit for your needs and preferences. If you have any concerns or need further information, we’re here to help guide you through every step of the process.