At Steele Creek Orthodontics, we provide orthodontic care for patients of all ages, including braces for teens. We use the latest orthodontic technology to straighten your teeth faster and more effectively. If your teenager has lost all their baby teeth and shows crooked or crowded permanent teeth, schedule an orthodontic appointment. Teen braces can address a wide range of oral health issues ranging from overcrowded teeth to overbites.
At Steele Creek Orthodontics, we understand that teenagers have varying needs and preferences. That’s why we offer different types of braces for teens in Charlotte, North Carolina, to fit the unique needs of your teenager and their oral health.
Types of Braces for Teens
These days, teenagers have more options than ever for their braces.
Traditional Braces
The most common type of braces among children and teenagers are traditional metal braces. Metal braces consist of brackets, a metal wire, and elastics that secure the teeth and gradually straighten them.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces behave like traditional metal braces; however, the tooth-colored ceramic makes them less visible.
Braces Behind the Teeth
Some teens prefer to have hidden braces. Steele Creek Orthodontics offers braces that stick to the interior side of the teen’s teeth. This type of braces offers the same effect without the prominent look of traditional braces.
Not sure which type of braces are best for your teen? Let the dental professionals at Steele Creek Orthodontics help by examining your child’s mouth. By determining the severity of your teen’s case and their preferences, we can help them decide which type of braces would best suit them.
When Should a Teenager Get Braces?
Generally, the earlier your teenager gets their braces, the better. If your teenager is undergoing a growth spurt and is beginning to notice their teeth aren’t shaping correctly, it may be time to schedule an appointment with Steele Creek Orthodontics.
Ultimately, your orthodontist will help you determine whether your teenager needs braces. However, the most efficient orthodontic treatment happens between ages 12 and 15.
Getting Braces as a Teen vs. as an Adult
Braces are more common among teens than adults. Not only are braces more socially acceptable among teenagers, but they offer more benefits to younger patients. Treatment times for teenagers are significantly less than that of adults. Braces for teens also help guide jaw growth as teenagers are still developing facial features. Since teenagers are still growing, orthodontic treatment is much more straightforward. Unfortunately, adult orthodontic treatment is more complicated and may require other dental treatments.
How Your Teen Should Care for Their Braces
It is common for teenagers to experience brief soreness after receiving their braces. However, getting braces is a painless and non-invasive procedure. Teens with traditional metal braces will have to adjust their oral hygiene routine. Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions on how to care for your braces. Generally, patients will continue to brush their teeth as they usually do. Flossing, however, requires some patience to thread the floss through the wire.
Patients with metal braces will also need to be careful with what they eat. For example, chewy, sticky, or hard foods can impact the integrity of the braces. Orthodontists also provide patients with orthodontic wax. Applying the wax over the metal brackets helps prevent rubbing or sores on gums and lips.
Braces for Teens in Charlotte, North Carolina
When your teen needs braces, let the orthodontic professionals at Steele Creek Orthodontics help you get started. We will work with you and your teen to establish the best orthodontic treatment plan for their unique situation. We will also work with you to create a payment plan that fits your budget.
If you think your teen may need an orthodontist to help shape their smile into place or if you simply have questions about treatment, it may be time to schedule an appointment. Our team is passionate about getting your teen the smile they’ve been dreaming of.