The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children visit an orthodontist at age 7. At this age, an orthodontist can determine if early intervention is necessary. Many patients do not need to start treatment this early unless they have severe malocclusion issues that need corrected during these crucial growth phases. As long as your child has a proper orthodontic evaluation prior to their teen years, we can provide an appropriate treatment recommendation and help them avoid more serious and complicated treatment later in life.

Braces for teens can correct many orthodontic issues. That’s because by age 12, most children have all of their permanent adult teeth. Additionally, our orthodontists can easily diagnose problems with spacing, bite or crowding during this age. Teens are also typically more comfortable and confident with orthodontics, as many of their peers are also undergoing treatment.

Your orthodontist will help determine the best course of treatment for your teen based on his/her individual needs and preferences. Other important factors to consider when deciding on the best treatment plan for your child include:

• How long will treatment take?
• How much will treatment cost?
• How important are aesthetics to your teen when it comes to wearing braces?
• How often will my teen need to visit your office for checkups and adjustments?
• How will my teen care of his/her braces?

Our objective during your teen's first session is to figure out how we can develop attractive, healthy teeth and a stable, healthy bite in the most effective and efficient way possible. We do this by conducting diagnostic testing, such as X-rays, in order to gain a better understanding of your child's entire mouth and bite anatomy. Based on our findings, we will collaborate with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your teen's specific needs and objectives.