Treatment for teens

Treatment for teens

Most commonly adolescence is the ideal time to guide jaw growth, fix bite issues, and straighten permanent teeth while bones are still flexible.

Common reasons why Teens are considering orthodontic treatment

• Easier Jaw Alignment: Facial bones and jaws are still growing during the teen years, making it simpler to correct overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
• Better Oral Health: Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss, which lowers the risk of cavities, plaque buildup, and gum disease.
• Confidence: Correcting crooked or crowded teeth improves outward appearance and boosts confidence during social and school years.
• Prevention of Future Damage: Fixing alignment now stops abnormal tooth wear, jaw joint pain, and severe dental trauma later in life.
• All Permanent Teeth Present: By early-to-mid adolescence, most permanent adult teeth have erupted, allowing orthodontists to treat the entire mouth effectively.

 

Difference between adult and children orthodontics

There are few actual differences between adult and child orthodontics. However, in children and teens the jawbones are still developing. For adults, these bones have stopped growing, meaning treatment of a similar bite needs to be planned differently. On average, adult teeth also won’t move as fast as in teens, due to a slower metabolism. Other differences include:

Periodontal
Gum or bone loss (periodontal disease) — Adults are more likely than children to experience gum recession or even bone loss due to gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease. Patients with straighter teeth are less likely to get gum disease

Missing
Worn or missing teeth — Over time teeth can become worn down and shift into different positions that can only be corrected with orthodontic care. Missing teeth can cause other teeth to shift and tilt creating a bad bite and increasing the possibility of getting gum disease or losing additional teeth.

Incomplete
Incomplete orthodontic treatment as a teen — Many adults received some orthodontic treatment as a child or teen, but never completed their treatment. As an adult, they choose to complete their orthodontic treatment to achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they always wanted.

Our practice also recognises that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatments, and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.

 

Your options

For many teens, the thought of having metal braces is enough to discourage them from receiving treatment. However today’s orthodontic treatment options, offer a variety of braces and appliances that are comfortable, aesthetic, and customised to meet your needs. Most common types of teen braces include:

Traditional metal braces

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. And the most exciting part-the option of Colours! We change the colours at every adjustment appointment.  This is the most cost-efficient type of orthodontic treatment.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces are made of clear materials and are therefore less visible on your teeth than metal braces. For this reason, ceramic braces are used mainly on older teenagers and adult patients who have cosmetic concerns.