Teen Orthodontic Care
Wylie, Texas
The article recommends that adolescents start orthodontic treatment "between the age of 11 and 13, especially if they experience oral problems such as a bad bite, tooth gapping, or misaligned teeth."
The guide emphasizes that "oral problems requiring orthodontic treatment do not improve over time; they actually get more difficult to treat."
Treatment Options
Six treatment options are described:
- Clear aligners - Transparent plastic trays for mild to moderate issues, requiring 20-22 hours daily wear
- Ceramic braces - Tooth-colored brackets and wires offering continuous straightening
- Lingual braces - Brackets placed behind teeth, nearly invisible
- Self-ligating braces - Bracket-and-clip systems claimed to reduce discomfort
- Metal braces - Traditional option for significant tooth movement
- Growth modification appliances - Designed for younger patients still developing, helping correct overbites without extractions
Why Teen Years Are Ideal
The article notes that adolescent bone tissue remains "more pliable," making this age group ideal candidates for orthodontic intervention.
