ORTHODONTICS FOR TEENS

Creating Straight, Healthy, Confident Smiles

Orthodontics for teens

Helping Your Teen Achieve A Healthier, More Confident Smile

A majority of teenagers in the United States have some sort of orthodontic treatment. The process is much easier when many of their friends and peers are also going through it. Most teenagers start the process in their early teen years because there is a biological benefit to going through orthodontics at that age. Teeth move easily because the bone is softer and less rigid, making treatment faster and less painful than waiting until later in life.

As your child grows up, they will be more likely to smile in daily selfies, graduation photos, during that first job interview, and on their wedding day. The orthodontists at Steel City Orthodontics are excited about using their skills and expertise in orthodontics for teens to give your teenager the straight, healthy smile they need and want.

When Should You Get Orthodontic Treatment?

When do teens need orthodontics for teens? Orthodontic treatment is most commonly started between the ages of 12 and 16 because most permanent teeth have grown in by this time. Orthodontic issues like gaps, crowding, issues with bite and alignment are easily detected in teenagers. Bone and jaw structures have sufficiently formed to allow orthodontic treatment to begin but are still soft enough to move teeth easily. 

If your teenager has gaps, crooked, or protruding teeth, they may feel self-conscious and hide their smile. Many teenagers become very concerned with how they may be perceived and treated by their peers. Confidence and positive self-esteem can help your teen be successful through their education, social and future career goals. Often a straight smile through orthodontics for teens helps their confidence!

Why Do Teens Need Orthodontics?

Age twelve or thirteen is the perfect time for an evaluation by one of our orthodontists here at Steel City Orthodontics. Orthodontics for teens can correct these common orthodontic problems and any underlying issues that only an orthodontist is trained to detect. Anytime you or your teen have concerns about your teen’s smile, it is the right time for an orthodontic evaluation.

We always recommend a complimentary consultation with an orthodontist if you notice the following issues:

  • Protrusion of teeth

  • Difficulty chewing or biting, such as biting the insides of the lips or mouth

  • Too much space between teeth

  • Teeth that meet abnormally

  • Jaws that shift or make noises

  • Overcrowded teeth

  • Difficulty flossing or brushing due to crowding

  • Signs that your teen may be hiding their smile because they are concerned or embarrassed about their appearance

What Is The Best Time For Orthodontics For Teens?

Right now, your teen is at the ideal age for addressing orthodontic concerns since it’s easier to reposition teeth and jaws while they’re still growing. Don’t make the mistake of waiting for orthodontic problems to resolve on their own. Once facial growth is complete, treatment can be more difficult and costly. Your teen may also feel more comfortable addressing problems at a time when friends are undergoing similar treatment.

Orthodontics for teens ensures not only a lifetime of happier, more self-confident smiles, but also teeth and jaws that are properly aligned, promoting better oral and physical health. There are several benefits to addressing orthodontic needs during the teen years rather than putting off treatment until later. These benefits often include:

  • Shortened treatment time

  • Reduced need for tooth extraction

  • The ability to preserve space for any unerupted teeth and provide room for crowded, erupting teeth

  • Restored facial symmetry and aesthetics by stimulating jaw growth

  • Preserved tooth health and minimized threat of damage to protruding teeth

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics For Teens

You and your teen may have questions about starting treatment. Below, we’ve outlined some frequently asked questions to help your teen get started on their journey to a new, confident smile with our orthodontics for teens services.

At Steel City Orthodontics, teens may qualify for several orthodontics for teens treatment options, including traditional metal braces, Damon braces and clear aligners like Invisalign® and 3M™ clear aligners. Treatment recommendations depend on your teen’s smile goals, bite concerns and lifestyle preferences.

Teens may experience mild soreness for a few days after braces are placed or adjusted, but the discomfort is temporary. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help during the adjustment period.

Absolutely. Teens can continue participating in sports, band and other activities while wearing braces or aligners. For contact sports, a protective orthodontic mouthguard is recommended to help protect the teeth and braces from injury.

Teens with braces should avoid sticky, chewy and hard foods such as caramel, gum, popcorn, ice and hard candies because they can damage brackets or wires. Softer foods and braces-friendly snacks help keep treatment on track.

Retainers are essential after braces or aligner treatment because they help keep teeth in their new positions. Wear retainers nighttime for a lifetime! Wearing retainers as instructed helps protect your teen’s new smile for years to come.

At Steel City Orthodontics, we combine advanced technology, personalized treatment plans and a welcoming environment to help teens feel comfortable throughout their smile journey. With multiple convenient locations throughout Pennsylvania and West Virginia, teens can receive expert orthodontic care close to home.

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