Orthodontic treatment for Adolescents

Today adolescents have more choices than ever in creating a beautiful smile. From traditional braces, to “invisible” braces the number of effective and cosmetically pleasing treatment options is growing all the time.

Adolescent comprehensive orthodontic treatment.

If phase I early interceptive orthodontic treatment is not needed for your son or daughter (see orthodontic treatment for kids), braces will be started when most or all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Full comprehensive orthodontic treatment usually takes 18 to 28 months beginning at approximately 11-13 years of age.

Typical braces and orthodontic appliances used during full orthodontic treatment are:

• Traditional (small metal brackets) braces vs. "invisible" ceramic brackets
• Invisalign® treatment
• Palatal expanders
• Headgears
• Herbst appliances or Mara appliances
• Lingual arches