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Orthodontics for Teens

The teen years (between the ages of 12 and 16) are the most common time for orthodontic treatment because most permanent teeth will be in place.

Luckily, some new solutions work to make the treatment process much easier than ever before.

A person sits in a dental chair, smiling. The room is modern, with beige walls, wood floors, and dental equipment nearby.

All About Teen Orthodontics

Our experienced orthodontists can easily recognize issues with spacing, crowding, bite, and alignment in this age range, and your teen’s bone and jaw structure are formed enough to allow orthodontic treatment to begin.

Some teens may have even started Phase I treatment at an earlier age, and are now following it up with full braces or other orthodontic treatment.

Beyond outward appearances, untreated dental problems can have a lasting impact on your teen’s oral and overall health.

Signs Your Teen May Need Treatment

If you notice any of the following issues, we recommend a complimentary consultation with one of our doctors at Kottemann Orthodontics, since they could be signs your teen may benefit from orthodontic treatment.

  • Early, late, or irregular loss of their baby teeth
  • Difficulty with chewing or biting
  • Crowding or extra spacing between teeth
  • Jaws that shift or make sounds
  • Frequent biting of the cheek or the inside of the mouth
  • Teeth that meet abnormally or not at all
  • Jaws and teeth that are out of proportion to the rest of the face
  • Protrusion of teeth

Bad Bites

Diagnosing and successfully treating certain bite problems can have short-term and long-term benefits.

Problems classified as “bad bites” can often be minimized with the proper orthodontic treatment, including:

  • Crooked or crowded teeth
  • Missing or extra teeth
  • An overbite or underbite
  • Incorrect jaw position
  • A disorder of the jaw joint
A person in a white coat examines another person's mouth, wearing gloves and a mask, in a modern dental office setting.
Two people in a medical office. One sits holding a mirror while the other, in a white coat, gestures and smiles.

Benefits of a Straight Smile

Straight teeth that respond well to orthodontic treatment have many benefits, including:

  • Being less prone to wear and tear, chipping, and tooth trauma
  • Being easier to keep clean, helping to prevent tooth decay and cavities
  • Reducing the chances of developing gum disease, which can result in bone loss, decay, and tooth loss
  • Improving proper chewing and digestion of food
You’ve Got Options

Choose Your Look

Clear Braces

Clear Braces

If you don’t want your braces to stand out, ceramic braces might be an ideal best option for you.

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Invisalign

Invisalign for Teens

These clear custom aligners are the most comfortable and discreet option to straighten your smile.

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Metal Braces

Metal Braces

Strong and reliable metal braces are more comfortable than ever before.

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