A Quick Guide to Getting Braces for Teenagers

Getting braces is a big step for any teenager, and it’s vital to understand what’s involved in the process. An orthodontist can help you along the way.

The first step in getting braces for teenagers is to visit an orthodontist for a consultation. The orthodontist will examine your teen’s teeth and jaws during the consultation to determine whether braces are necessary.

In this guide, you’ll learn

• The right age to get braces
• Types of braces, and how they work
• The best place for getting braces

Get started on your path to a beautiful, healthy smile, and read on.

The Age to Get Braces

Getting braces at the right age is key to achieving the perfect smile. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children get an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This is because by the age of 7, the permanent teeth have typically come in, and any issues with jaw growth can be detected.

While braces can be successful at any age, the best time to begin treatment is typically between ages 10 and 14. During the early teen years, the bones of the jaw are still growing and developing, making it easier for orthodontists to manipulate them into a proper bite position. Early treatment at this stage can help avoid the need for more extensive treatments later on.

Children need to get orthodontic evaluations early on, as many orthodontic issues can be easier to treat when caught early. During this time, the majority of permanent teeth have erupted, making it easier for an orthodontist to identify any potential issues. It can make the treatment process much easier and more effective in the long run.

How Braces Work

Braces are a common type of orthodontic treatment that involves brackets, wires, and bands to gently guide the teeth into their correct positions. They are the go-to solution for getting your beautiful smile back. Braces allow teeth to be gradually moved to correct misalignment or spacing issues over time.

The brackets and wires of braces work together to gently move the teeth into the correct positions. To begin the process, the brackets are bonded to each tooth with a special adhesive. Wires are then threaded through the brackets and adjusted over time to slowly move the teeth. Frequent visits to the orthodontist are necessary to ensure that the treatment is effective.

Types of Braces

More than traditional metal braces, today’s dental clinics use new technology to create more efficient and comfortable dentures. At Parker Orthodontics, we offer the following types of modern braces:

Metal braces
These are not your typical metal braces. They are smaller and less noticeable than traditional braces. With new techniques and materials, the process of installing these bridgeworks has become less painful, quick, and easy. You can also let your children and teenagers choose their own style with colorful elastic bands.

Clear braces
These braces often use ceramic or any clear material that blends with your teeth. Wires may also have the same color as your teeth to make them less noticeable. For some people, using clear braces provides quicker results than Invisalign. Its only downside is that it can easily get stained. You need to follow proper care instructions to keep them clean.

Invisalign
Patients who want a straight and attractive smile but don’t like the idea of traditional gun-metal gray braces can choose Invisalign clear aligners. These braces fit like a mouthguard. They are uniquely molded for each patient’s mouth and tooth shape. The treatment time for Invisalign is about the same as for other types of braces, but you’d have to return to your dentist every seven days to have it replaced.

While traditional metal braces are still the most popular choice, modern orthodontic technology offers more aesthetic options for those who are looking for a less noticeable way to straighten their teeth. To find out which of these braces is best for your teen, talk to an orthodontist near you.

The Best Place for Getting Braces for Teens

With many choices available for teens today, it is important to understand the benefits and risks of each type of braces. The best place for teenagers to get braces is at an orthodontist clinic that offers these options.

Orthodontists can recommend the right braces for your teen’s particular needs. Speak with your orthodontist to know which of these braces is best suited for your teen. At Parker Orthodontics, we use the latest orthodontic technology to provide your teens with braces that are safe, effective, and comfortable.

Parker Orthodontics is a team of licensed orthodontists who will give you personalized care and attention when you come in for orthodontic treatment. They will evaluate your teen’s dental health as well as their teeth, jaw, and facial structure to determine which type of braces are best for them.

Get in touch today and schedule an appointment to get a free consultation.