Davis Family Orthodontics proudly provides braces and orthodontic treatment for teens of Atlanta and surrounding areas.
Visit one of our offices in Lawrenceville, Loganville, Morrow, and Stone Mountain!
At Davis Family Orthodontics, we offer Teen Orthodontics. Braces treatment offers various benefits and can prevent the need for more complex treatments later in life. Here’s everything you need to know about orthodontics for teenagers.
The teenage years are a pivotal time for many orthodontic treatments. As teens continue to grow, their teeth and jaws often do too, making it an opportune phase to correct any misalignments. At Davis Family Orthodontics, we understand the unique challenges and needs of teen patients and are committed to providing tailored treatments that ensure a radiant smile.
Symptoms Indicating a Need for Orthodontic Treatment:
- Overlapping or crowded teeth, making cleaning difficult
- Noticeable gaps between teeth
- Overbite, with the upper teeth significantly overshadowing the lower teeth
- Underbite, where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth
- Crossbite, causing one or several upper teeth to bite inside the lower ones
- Difficulties in chewing due to misaligned teeth
How Long Will I Have To Wear Braces?
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the severity of the orthodontic issue, the type of braces used, and the patient’s dedication to treatment. On average, most teens wear braces for 1-3 years. However, the length of time it takes to complete the treatment can vary based on several factors:
- Early Treatment: Teenagers who receive early orthodontic treatment can monitor the growth of their jaw and receive further treatment if necessary. However, not everyone needs early orthodontic treatment, and it may be recommended that some teenagers wait until they are older to start treatment.
- The Correction Needed: The severity of the orthodontic problem will determine how long the treatment process takes. Every patient’s reaction to the treatment is different, and the time taken to complete the treatment can vary. Some teenagers may require 12 months to complete their treatment, while others may need up to 24 months or longer.
- Your Cooperation: Your willingness to comply with your orthodontist’s instructions is crucial in reducing the length of your treatment. Properly caring for your braces and appliances can help speed up the treatment process.
At Davis Family Orthodontics, we offer personalized treatment plans that take into account your unique orthodontic needs. During your initial consultation, our orthodontists will assess your needs and provide an estimate of how long your treatment may take. Our experienced orthodontists help you determine the best treatment course and provide the tools needed to ensure your treatment is successful.
Our Treatment Options For Teens Needing Braces
Some of our most popular orthodontic options for teenagers include:
- Metal Braces: Traditional metal braces are the most reliable and common type of braces used for orthodontic treatment. They work through metal brackets and wires adjusted over time to gradually move the teeth into the correct position.
- Ceramic Braces: Ceramic braces work similarly to metal braces, but have brackets that are made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic material, making them less noticeable than metal braces.
- Invisalign: Invisalign is a highly popular and reliable alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign works through a series of clear, removable plastic aligners that gradually shift the teeth. Invisalign is an excellent solution for teens who want a more discreet orthodontic treatment.
Why Are Teen Orthodontics Needed?
The teenage years are characterized by rapid growth and development. As such, any dental misalignment or improper bite not addressed can lead to more significant issues in adulthood. Orthodontic treatments during these years can correct misalignments, leading to enhanced aesthetics, improved oral hygiene, and reduced risks of future dental problems. Dr. Davis emphasizes the importance of timely intervention to achieve optimal results.
What To Expect During Your Teen’s Orthodontic Treatment Process:
When you bring your teenager to Davis Family Orthodontics, here’s the journey they’ll embark on for their orthodontic care:
- Consultation: In this initial meeting, our orthodontist will assess your teen’s teeth to see what orthodontic treatment is the best option for them.
- 3D Scan: Should your teen be a suitable candidate for orthodontics, we will then capture a 3D image of their mouth. This serves as the blueprint for their tailored treatment plan.
- Appliance Creation: Drawing from the 3D scan, a sequence of custom-built appliances are crafted, uniquely tailored to fit your teen’s dental structure.
- Tracking Progress: Regular check-ins with our orthodontist ensure that the teeth are shifting as desired, keeping the treatment on track.
- Completion of Treatment: As they reach the end of their orthodontic journey, we’ll introduce them to their retainer, ensuring their fresh, beautiful smile remains intact.
Prevention:
To prevent the progression of orthodontic issues, it’s essential for teens to maintain regular dental check-ups, ensure proper oral hygiene, avoid habits like thumb-sucking, and wear any prescribed orthodontic appliances, such as retainers, consistently.
Outlook:
With the advancements in orthodontic technology, treatments have become more efficient and less noticeable, catering to the self-conscious nature of many teenagers. Most treatments span 12 to 24 months, and the results can be life-changing. Post-treatment, teens can expect an improved bite, enhanced smile aesthetics, and boosted self-confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: At what age should a teen start orthodontic treatment?
A: While the ideal age varies, many orthodontic issues become noticeable around the age of 12 or 13, making it a common time to start treatment.
Q: Are braces the only option for teens?
A: No, besides traditional braces, there are several options like clear aligners and ceramic braces. Dr. Davis can advise on the best solution for each individual.
Q: How can teens maintain their oral hygiene during treatment?
A: It’s crucial to brush and floss regularly, avoid certain hard or sticky foods, and attend regular check-ups to ensure optimal oral health during orthodontic treatment.
Schedule an Orthodontic Evaluation with Davis Family Orthodontics!
At our practice, we understand that every person is different and will require different types of treatment. Our team of experienced orthodontists takes a personalized approach to treatment and works closely with parents to help develop an orthodontic plan that keeps their smile healthy. We offer a variety of orthodontic treatment options, including traditional braces, Invisalign, and clear braces, to help you love your smile. Contact Davis Family Orthodontics to schedule a consultation with Dr. Davis. Choose from our four accessible locations in Lawrenceville, Loganville, Morrow, or Stone Mountain, GA.
