Braces for Teenagers
For many teenagers, orthodontic treatment and braces are an important part of their lives. Today’s teen braces and clear aligners, paired with cutting-edge technology, make it simple to look and feel great!
What Are The Best Braces For Teenagers?
Getting braces is a common rite of passage for teenagers. You’ll be able to pick from a variety of alternatives at Shin Orthodontics that will offer you a great-looking, healthy smile created with the correct mix of artistry and science.
As experts in teen braces, we have the knowledge and experience to give your teen a dazzling, healthy straight smile with a gorgeous bite that will last a lifetime.
Why Do Teenagers Require Braces?
At Shin Orthodontics, we treat patients of all ages, although teens are the most common. This is due to the fact that orthodontic treatment is particularly beneficial for teenagers. It’s a period of rapid growth and change for them, which makes correcting bites and shaping smiles easier.
Braces help with a variety of oral health problems, including:
• Teeth that are crowded and misaligned
• Gaps in the teeth
• Overbite – where the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth
• Open Bite – where some teeth cannot properly touch each other
• Underbite – where the lower teeth stick out ahead of the upper teeth
• Protruding teeth
• Crossbite – where both the lower and upper teeth are misaligned
Braces provide a number of long-term health benefits, including:
• Teeth that are easy to keep clean are less prone to develop cavities or decay
• Bad bites can put undue stress on certain teeth, resulting in broken teeth or painful jaw muscles
• Teenagers can experience enhanced digestive health by being able to chew food properly
• Braces can also improve mental health by improving the wearer’s confidence and self-esteem
The Most Common Types Of Braces For Teenagers
Traditional Metal Braces
A metal bracket is fastened to each tooth, and a thin archwire connects them. The archwire pushes and pulls on the teeth to gradually move them into the ideal position.
The archwire is attached to the brackets via ligatures, or o-rings, which are tiny elastics. Braces must be tightened on a regular basis to keep the teeth moving in the right direction. These elastics come in a variety of colors that many teenagers adore. They can use the colors of their school, their preferred professional sports team, or seasonal holiday colors.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces function similarly to metal braces. The brackets are formed from a clear, transparent ceramic substance, which is the main distinction. This means the braces will blend in better with your child’s teeth and will be less noticeable.
Ceramic braces can be more expensive than metal braces and can stain if not properly cared for. They are also not as durable as metal braces, but they could be a good option for kids who don’t want metal.
Invisalign® Teen
Invisalign treatment can take anywhere from a few months to two years. Your teen will receive 15-20 sets of numbered aligners, and they will change their aligners once a week. Each new aligner will gradually move the teeth closer to the final smile.
Invisible aligners have a number of advantages. They’re transparent and don’t stand out as much as standard braces or even ceramic braces. They can also be taken out, making dental care and eating considerably easier for teenagers.
Treatment with Invisalign Teen is ideal for busy parents because there are never any emergency appointments for broken wires or brackets. Dr. Debra and Dr. Richard continue to monitor your teen’s progress each week by using virtual care – your teen will take a few photos of their mouth using the Invisalign app and our doctors will be able to remotely check their progress. This makes scheduling appointments a breeze!
Compliance is key! Teenagers will need to wear the aligners for 20–22 hours each day.
So, What Braces Are Best For Your Teen?
The easiest way to find out which treatment option is best for your child is to schedule a free consultation. After examining your child’s mouth, our orthodontists can make a recommendation based on their findings.
Dr. Debra Shin and Dr. Richard Shin are skilled orthodontists with a passion for working with families and teenagers to create beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. Our goal is to make a positive difference in your child’s life by improving their self-confidence and oral health.
