Graduation season is upon us! Whether your teen is taking senior photos or just starting middle or high school, teenagehood tends to be a popular window for orthodontic treatment. Clauss Orthodontics serves families across Watertown and Middlebury and is dedicated to making the experience easy to understand. Here’s everything parents need to know about orthodontic treatment for teens!
Why the Teen Years Are a Good Time for Treatment
A good portion of patients’ orthodontic care starts between the ages of 12 and 16, when:
- Almost all permanent teeth have come in
- Jaw and bone structures are still maturing
- Bite issues and spacing concerns are easier to spot
Dr. Clauss can recognize and manage concerns like crowding, gaps, bite problems, and jaw alignment during this window.
Some teens may already be finishing foundational Phase I early orthodontic work, while others may be starting from scratch. Either way, getting started early in life can make a big difference in the long run!
Identifying Issues
While some orthodontic needs are easy to spot, others are far less obvious. You can partner with your teenager to keep an eye out for the following as they grow up:
- Early, late, or unusual loss of baby teeth
- Trouble chewing or biting
- Crowded, crooked, or widely spaced teeth
- Jaws that shift, pop, or click
- Frequent cheek or lip biting
- Teeth that don’t meet well
- Disproportionate jaw or size of the teeth
- Noticeably protruding teeth
If you recognize any of these in your teen, it’s worth booking a free consultation with Dr. Clauss. Even if you haven’t noticed these signs, it’s still not a bad idea to visit Clauss Orthodontics so that we can have a closer look using our diagnostic technology. Your family dentist may also refer you to us.
Understanding Treatment Choices
Teens today have flexible options for orthodontic care, allowing them to find the right fit based on their needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Our three options at Clauss Orthodontics include:
- Traditional Metal Braces: These are highly durable and work well for treating a wide range of orthodontic concerns, from mild crowding to more complex bite problems. Modern metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than they used to be, making them a reliable option for many of our local teenagers.
- Clear Ceramic Braces: Designed to blend in with natural tooth color, ceramic braces are popular for teens who want a more discreet option without compromising effectiveness. They function just like metal braces but offer a less noticeable appearance. They are slightly more fragile, which could be worth considering for student athletes.
- Invisalign for Teens: Invisalign works differently, using a series of clear, removable aligners that fit comfortably over the teeth. Teens appreciate Invisalign’s flexibility, making it easier to eat, brush, and engage in activities like sports and music without major interruptions. Plus, Invisalign aligners are almost invisible, boosting confidence during treatment.
Orthodontic Treatment’s Daily Impact
From sports practices to music performances and social events, a teen’s smile plays a major role in how they feel about themselves during some of their most important formative years.
While there may be a short adjustment period when starting braces or aligners, most teens quickly find that treatment fits right into their busy lives—and can even enhance it in ways they didn’t expect! Here are a few of the ways orthodontic care can affect a teen’s world:
- Sports: Braces should never stop teens from playing their favorite sports. Usually, Dr. Clauss will recommend mouthguards to protect their smile while staying active. It’s important to wear the right kind of mouthguard, however, as some won’t be effective.
- Music: Musicians who play wind or brass instruments may need a little time to adjust to braces, but they usually adapt quickly with practice. Some might even find clear aligners easier to manage, as long as they’re able to stick to their wear schedule.
- Photos: From school pictures to prom portraits, straightening teeth boosts confidence in the most important moments, helping teens feel proud to show off their smiles.
- Social Events: A confident smile can encourage teens to engage more at parties, dances, and social outings, improving self-esteem and social experiences.
- Everyday Confidence: Feeling good about their smile can positively impact a teen’s relationships, self-image, and even academic performance.
Forming the Future
At Clauss Orthodontics, we’re always so pleased to help teenagers with their smiles, and we see the difference it can make on a daily basis in our two offices. Our team would love to connect with your family and discuss customized options for orthodontic treatment. Schedule a free consultation and come see us soon!