Teen Braces & Other Orthodontic Treatments
Swap a self-conscious smile for straight teeth and an aligned bite with orthodontics for adolescents.
With orthodontics generally being more effective at a younger age, adolescence is the perfect time to undergo treatment. Plus, teen braces have come a long way since the days of bulky metal wires and brackets. From overcrowded teeth and imbalanced profiles to speech problems and mouth breathing, orthodontics for teens can correct a range of concerns. Options include a finer version of metal braces, porcelain braces or clear braces known as Invisalign.
At ABC Orthodontics, we will work closely with you and your teenager to deliver the best treatment for their needs. Our warm and welcoming environment is designed to make patients of all ages feel safe and respected. Arrange a No Gap first appointment today for teen braces or another orthodontic treatment in Newcastle NSW.
Metal & clear teen braces
Braces are the most popular type of orthodontic treatment for teenages. At ABC Orthodontics, we offer a variety of metal and clear braces for teenagers in Newcastle NSW. Available in both metal and ceramic options, our advanced American Orthodontics Empower self-ligating braces make for easier and more comfortable wire adjustments – plus fewer visits to the orthodontist.
Invisalign for teenagers
Invisalign Teen is the ultimate orthodontic solution for teenagers who are hesitant about the look and feel of traditional braces. A practically invisible alternative to braces for teens, these clear and removable aligners shift teeth over time without using metal or wires.
What can teen braces and other orthodontic treatments help with?
Misaligned bite
If your teen’s jaw does not line up correctly, they can develop an underbite, overbite or crossbite. In these circumstances, early orthodontics treatment is best as the facial structure is more malleable than in adulthood.
Crowded or crooked teeth
Teeth will overlap if the mouth does not provide enough space for them to grow. This can prevent your teen from cleaning them effectively, causing a buildup of plaque and a greater risk of tooth decay. Braces can help to shift teeth into their intended position for a straight smile.
Gapped teeth
Spaces between adult teeth can be closed with braces in as little as six months, depending on the extent of treatment necessary. It’s important to close these gaps as they can lead to trapped food and speech problems.
Breathing through the mouth
Some teenagers breathe mostly through their mouths. As the tongue does not tend to sit on the roof of the mouth when it is open, your teen may develop a narrow jaw over time. In turn, this means less room for adult teeth to grow. Teen braces can help to correct jaw development.
Chewing challenges
A misaligned bite or crooked teeth can make it uncomfortable for your teenager to eat properly. If they’re experiencing trouble with eating or tend to bite their cheeks or tongue when doing so, braces can help to correct the underlying cause.
Mouth or jaw discomfort
Some orthodontic issues can be felt but not seen. If your teen is suffering from mouth or jaw pain on a regular basis, it may be caused by irregularities relating to their teeth – which can be resolved with orthodontic treatment.
Speech issues
Misaligned teeth can cause problems with speaking. If your teen is finding it difficult to pronounce specific words or speak in general, it may be time to book a consultation for orthodontic treatment.
Our easy procedure for teen braces
1. Consultation & impressions
To get started, we will examine your teen’s teeth, mouth and jaw before discussing your treatment options with you. Your orthodontist will listen to your teen’s concerns and answer any questions they may have before putting together a personalised treatment plan that details inclusions, costs and expected duration.
If you choose to proceed with teen braces, we will take impressions (moulds) of your teen’s teeth to create a plaster cast of your mouth to send to the laboratory. We will also photograph their teeth and smile, as well as take x-rays and 3D digital scans if necessary.
2. Fitting
Once your teen’s braces are ready, they will be affixed to the teeth. The arch wire, which is designed for your teen’s distinct requirements, is then fitted.
During this appointment, we will explain how to take care of the braces with brushing and flossing. Good oral hygiene is essential whilst wearing braces, as it helps to keep the surface of the teeth and gums healthy.
3. Adjustments
As your teen’s teeth gradually move into their intended positions, we will have to make occasional adjustments that ensure the treatment sticks to plan.
To do this, you teen will need to attend a quick 30-minute appointment every six to eight weeks, with this frequency potentially increasing down the line as finer corrections are required.
4. Debanding
The most exciting step, this appointment is when we take the braces or attachments off to reveal your teen’s brand new smile! We will also glue a fixed bonded retainer behind the upper and lower front teeth to prevent them from shifting out of position over time.
To finish, your teen’s teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and can also be whitened. The result? A straight smile your teen can flash with confidence.
5. Retainers
At ABC Orthodontics, we are committed to helping your teen achieve straight teeth now and into adulthood. To maintain results, post-treatment care is paramount.
After your braces are debanded, we will supply your teen with a removable retainer to wear while you sleep each night. Your teen should also attend regular dental check ups and follow a good oral hygiene routine to keep their smile shining.
Frequently asked questions
Why get braces as a teenager?
There are several reasons why it’s a great idea to get teen braces. Firstly, braces work best when the mouth is young and healthy. Although adult teeth are fully developed in adolescence, the jaw bones are still growing. Therefore, a teenager’s teeth generally respond quicker to orthodontic treatment. What’s more, many teens have not yet had the time to develop dental health complications often evident in adulthood.
Additionally, your teen’s smile is at the forefront of their appearance – a typical area of concern for most adolescents. Unfortunately, having crooked teeth or a misaligned bite can be a source of shame or embarrassment. With braces, your teen will be able to enhance their smile and boost their self-confidence.
Lastly, many people have braces at this stage in their life. Therefore, your teen can take action while their friends are undergoing the same treatment.
How long will my teen have to wear braces for?
In many cases, orthodontic treatments for teens can be completed within 12 to 24 months. However, this duration varies according to the condition of their teeth and the extent of treatment required, as well the type of braces selected.
At ABC Orthodontics, Dr. Kosy will explain the length of time your teen will need to wear braces during the initial consultation.
Will my teen need to attend regular check ups during orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Your teen’s teeth will shift throughout orthodontic treatment, so regular adjustments are required to achieve the best results. To do this, your teen will need to attend regular check ups with the orthodontist, usually at six to eight week intervals.
How much do teen braces cost?
The cost of teen braces depends on the type, degree and complexity of orthodontics needed to achieve their treatment goals.
At ABC Orthodontics, we will personalise your treatment plan for your teenager and provide a written estimate after the initial examination. To confirm treatment price, please book a consultation at ABC Orthodontics today.
Call us at 1300 794 797 and let our team of experienced professionals talk with you and your teen about metal braces, porcelain braces, or Invisalign. We’re confident that we can find the right solution for you.
