Teen Orthodontics

Preparing for orthodontic treatment is a key step in setting your teen up for a confident smile and lasting oral health. Before starting treatment, it’s important for teens and their families to explore the different orthodontic treatment options available. Traditional metal braces are a tried-and-true choice, known for their durability and effectiveness in straightening teeth and correcting bite problems. For those seeking a more subtle look, ceramic braces with tooth-colored brackets blend in with the natural color of the teeth, offering a discreet alternative without sacrificing results. Clear aligners are another popular option, providing a nearly invisible and removable way to address misaligned teeth and crowded teeth.

Good oral hygiene is essential before and during orthodontic treatment. Teens should brush and floss thoroughly, especially after eating foods high in sugar or acid, to help prevent gum disease and other dental issues. Avoiding habits like chewing on hard objects can also protect teeth and orthodontic appliances from unnecessary damage.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist by age 7 for an initial orthodontic evaluation. Early assessment can help identify alignment issues, crowded teeth, or bite problems before they become more serious. By starting the conversation early and understanding the available treatment options, families can make informed decisions that lead to a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.

Clemente Orthodontics is pleased to offer several different orthodontic treatments for teens. These options are designed to straighten teeth effectively, improving both oral health and aesthetics. Orthodontists offer a variety of solutions to meet the unique needs and preferences of each patient. These include:

After orthodontic treatment, maintaining your teen’s healthy and beautiful smile becomes the top priority. Consistent oral hygiene is crucial—teens should continue to brush and floss carefully, paying extra attention to the areas around their braces or orthodontic appliances to prevent gum disease and other dental issues. Regular checkups with the orthodontist are important to monitor the stability of the results and address any concerns promptly.

Most teens will be fitted with removable retainers after their braces or aligners come off. Wearing retainers as directed is essential to keep teeth in their new, proper positions and prevent them from shifting back. Proper care of removable retainers, including regular cleaning and safe storage, helps ensure they remain effective and comfortable.

In addition to retainer care, maintaining good oral hygiene habits and scheduling regular dental checkups will help protect your teen’s investment in their smile. With the right aftercare and maintenance, your teen can enjoy the benefits of straight teeth, better oral health, and a confident, beautiful smile for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teen Orthodontics

At Clemente Orthodontics, we understand that the teenage years are an ideal time for orthodontic treatment. Our teen orthodontics services are designed with adolescents’ unique needs in mind. Here are answers to common questions about orthodontic treatment for teens.

What is the best age for teens to get braces?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, many teens begin orthodontic treatment between ages 12-14, when most permanent teeth have erupted. However, the ideal timing depends on each individual’s dental development and specific orthodontic issues. Some teens may benefit from early orthodontic intervention, while others may be ready a bit later. During your teen’s complimentary consultation, our orthodontists will recommend the optimal timing for treatment.

What treatment options are available for teenagers?

We offer several treatment options for teens including traditional metal braces, clear braces (ceramic braces that blend with tooth color), and Invisalign® Teen. The best option depends on your teen’s specific orthodontic needs, lifestyle, and preferences. As the number one Invisalign® provider in New York and New Jersey, we have extensive experience creating successful treatment plans for teens using all available options.

Can my teen play sports with braces?

Absolutely! We encourage teens to continue all their regular activities during orthodontic treatment. However, we strongly recommend wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during contact sports to protect both the braces and your teen’s teeth. We can provide custom-fitted mouthguards specifically designed to be worn with braces for maximum protection and comfort.

How long will my teen need to wear braces?

Treatment time varies based on individual needs and the complexity of the case. On average, most teens wear braces for 18-24 months. During your teen’s consultation, we’ll provide a more personalized estimate of treatment duration. Consistent wear of elastics (if prescribed) and keeping all scheduled appointments can help ensure treatment stays on schedule.

Will braces affect my teen’s speech or ability to play musical instruments?

Most teens adapt quickly to braces with minimal impact on speech. For those who play wind or brass instruments, there may be a brief adjustment period, but most are able to return to their regular playing ability within a few weeks. For teens concerned about the impact on musical performance, options like Invisalign® Teen might be worth considering, as they can be removed temporarily during performances.

How often will my teen need to visit the orthodontist?

Most teens with braces visit us every 6-8 weeks for adjustments. For those with Invisalign®, appointments are typically scheduled every 8-10 weeks. These regular visits are essential for monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments to keep treatment on track. We offer appointment times that accommodate school schedules and extracurricular activities.

How can I help my teen care for their braces?

Encourage good oral hygiene habits, including brushing after meals and flossing daily. Special tools like interdental brushes and water flossers can make cleaning around braces easier. Help your teen remember to avoid foods that could damage braces, such as hard candy, popcorn, and chewy sweets. For teens with Invisalign®, remind them to keep their aligners in their case when not wearing them and to clean the aligners daily.

Is Invisalign® a good option for teenagers?

Many teens are excellent candidates for Invisalign® Teen. This treatment option offers the advantage of being nearly invisible, removable for eating and cleaning, and often requires fewer emergency visits. Invisalign® Teen includes special features designed specifically for adolescents, including compliance indicators to help parents and orthodontists monitor proper usage and “eruption tabs” that accommodate growing molars.

What if my teen has an orthodontic emergency?

If your teen experiences an orthodontic emergency, such as a broken bracket or poking wire, contact our office promptly. In many cases, we can provide guidance over the phone for temporary relief until your teen can be seen in our office. For more information on handling orthodontic emergencies, visit our broken braces page.

What happens after braces or Invisalign® treatment is complete?

After completing orthodontic treatment, your teen will need to wear retainers to maintain their new smile. Initially, retainers are typically worn full-time, gradually transitioning to nighttime wear only. Consistent retainer use is crucial to prevent teeth from shifting back to their previous positions.

For more information about teen orthodontics or to schedule a complimentary consultation for your teenager, contact us today. Visit our offices in Ridgewood, Woodcliff Lake, or New City to learn more about how we can help your teen achieve a confident, healthy smile.