Custom Braces for Teens

Lightforce braces custom designed for you

Braces are making a come back!

Has your teen told you? Braces for teens are making a comeback! What once might have been something teens avoided, braces are now not only a popular choice for improving oral health but also a trendy way to express personal style.

At Premier Orthodontics, we specialize in the latest braces treatments for teens, helping correct bite issues, realign teeth, and create healthy smiles. Early orthodontic care during this key developmental stage can prevent future problems, making treatment quicker and more effective.

What to Expect When Your Teen Starts Orthodontic Treatment

At your teen’s first appointment, they’ll visit our welcoming office where we’ll get to know them and thoroughly assess their smile. If braces are recommended, Dr. T will develop a custom treatment plan, and treatment may even start that day! Your teen will leave our office on their way to a beautiful, healthy smile.

There’s always an adjustment period when your teen first gets braces, but after a few weeks, most teens barely notice them. Keeping up with proper brushing, flossing, and avoiding certain foods will help maintain a clean, healthy smile throughout treatment. We also provide mouthguards to protect their braces during sports and activities.

How Long Will My Teen Wear Braces?

The average treatment time for teens wearing braces is about 18 months, though this can vary from 6 to 36 months, depending on your teen’s specific needs. The more your teen follows the treatment guidelines, the sooner they’ll be done with braces!

Protecting Braces: What Foods to Avoid

Braces require a little extra care when it comes to food choices. Sticky, hard, or chewy foods like gum, caramel, or crunchy snacks can damage the braces. Here are some foods to avoid:

Crunchy Foods – Carrots, apples, chips

Hard Foods – Corn on the cob, hard candies

Chewy Foods – Gum, taffy, licorice

Negative Chewing Habits – Chewing on fingernails or pens

Types of Braces for Teens at Premier Orthodontics

Teens have plenty of braces options to choose from. When you come in for a consultation, Dr. T will walk you through the available styles, including:

Metal Braces – Classic and durable, metal braces are highly effective and can be personalized with colored bands for a fun, custom look.

Clear Braces – For teens who want a more discreet option, clear braces use tooth-colored brackets for a less noticeable look while still delivering excellent results.

Color Braces – Your teen can personalize their braces with colorful bands to show off their personality or match their favorite teams and holidays!

At Premier Orthodontics, we’re here to make orthodontic treatment an enjoyable and rewarding experience for your teen, helping them achieve a healthy smile they’ll be proud to show off!

Braces FAQ

How long will my teen need to wear braces?

The duration of treatment varies depending on individual needs, but most teens wear braces for 18 to 24 months. Factors like the complexity of the case and how well the teen follows the orthodontist’s instructions will influence the treatment time.

Can my teen still play sports while wearing braces?

Yes, teens can continue playing sports while wearing braces. However, it’s recommended that they wear a mouthguard to protect their braces, teeth, and gums from injury during contact sports or physical activities.

What foods should my teen avoid while wearing braces?

To protect their braces, teens should avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods like gum, caramel, popcorn, and hard candy. These foods can damage the brackets and wires, potentially extending treatment time.

Will braces be painful for my teen?

Teens may experience some discomfort, especially after getting braces adjusted, but this is usually temporary. Over-the-counter pain relief and eating softer foods for a few days can help ease the discomfort.