Orthodontics for Teens
Braces, retainers, and everything else that you want to know about orthodontics!
You've just heard the three words that every teen dreads: “YOU NEED BRACES!”
Braces! What now?
Don't worry! Braces aren't nearly as scary as you may think. In fact, braces today come in a variety of styles, materials, and colors, making life with braces much easier, more comfortable, and even more stylish than in the past.
How long will I have to wear braces?
The amount of time it takes to treat your smile with braces depends on three key factors:
- Early treatment — Early treatment (before age 10) allows orthodontists to monitor the growth of the jaw and recommend early orthodontic treatment if it becomes necessary. Early orthodontic treatment can mean that later treatment in a person's teens can be completed in less time. Not everybody receives early orthodontic treatment though, and in some cases it may be recommended that a patient wait until they are older to receive treatment.
- What needs correction — The amount of treatment needed to correct a problem will determine how long the process takes. Individual patients react to orthodontic treatment differently, so while it may take one patient only 18 months to complete their treatment, it may take another patient 24 to 30 months. Treatment times can vary depending on how quickly your body responds and how much work is needed to give you the improved smile and better bite you are hoping for.
- YOU! — Your ability to follow instructions and wear and use the appliances your orthodontist gives you plays a major role in the length of time it takes to complete your treatment. Always remember to take good care of your braces, your appliances, your teeth and your gums; this truly will help make your treatment go faster!
Braces Your Way!
Our practice offers a variety of braces, types, and styles to choose from. Some common options include:
- Ceramic braces
- Clear aligners
- Miniaturized metal braces
- Lingual braces
Orthodontic braces of some description are a big part of life for many people your age. And they all survive ! In fact, most of them thrive. Please contact our practice to schedule your next orthodontic checkup with Dr. Boutin.