The teenage years are the most common time to begin orthodontic treatment — and for good reason. By ages 11 to 14, most permanent teeth have erupted, the jaw is still growing, and the bone is responsive to movement. At Weeks Orthodontics in Winter Springs and Oviedo, FL, we treat hundreds of teens every year and understand the unique challenges and concerns that come with being a teenager in braces.
Why the Teen Years Are Ideal for Orthodontic Treatment
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, adolescence is the optimal window for comprehensive orthodontic treatment because:
- All permanent teeth are present — Allowing for a complete, comprehensive treatment plan
- The jaw is still growing — Making it easier to correct bite issues and guide jaw development
- Faster tooth movement — Teenage bone responds more quickly to orthodontic forces, often resulting in shorter treatment times
- Social normalization — Braces are common among teens, reducing self-consciousness and the embarrassment factor
Orthodontic Treatment Options for Teens
Dr. Travis A. Weeks and Dr. Shadiya Hasan offer multiple treatment options so your teen can choose the one that best fits their lifestyle, personality, and orthodontic needs:
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces remain the most popular and effective option for teenagers. Today’s braces are significantly smaller, sleeker, and more comfortable than the braces of previous generations. Teens love the option to personalize their treatment with colorful elastic bands that let them express their personality at every appointment.
Metal braces are the most versatile option and can correct even the most complex orthodontic issues including severe crowding, significant overbites and underbites, crossbites, and open bites.
Ceramic (Clear) Braces
Ceramic braces use tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend with the natural color of your teen’s teeth. They work the same way as metal braces but are far less noticeable — making them a popular choice for image-conscious teens, especially those involved in public speaking, drama, or other social activities.
Invisalign® for Teens
Invisalign® clear aligners have become increasingly popular with teenagers who want a nearly invisible treatment option. Invisalign® for teens includes special features designed for adolescent patients:
- Compliance indicators — Small blue dots on the aligners that fade with wear, helping parents and orthodontists track whether the teen is wearing aligners the recommended 20 to 22 hours per day
- Eruption tabs — Built-in space for teeth that have not fully grown in yet
- Replacement aligners — A set number of free replacement aligners are included in case aligners are lost or damaged
Invisalign® for teens is ideal for mild to moderate alignment issues and works best for disciplined teens who will commit to wearing their aligners consistently.
Common Orthodontic Issues We Treat in Teens
Teenage patients at Weeks Orthodontics are treated for a wide range of orthodontic concerns, including:
- Crowding — When there is not enough room for all teeth to fit properly, causing overlap and rotation
- Spacing — Gaps between teeth that affect appearance and can trap food
- Overbite — Upper front teeth extend too far over the lower teeth
- Underbite — Lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth
- Crossbite — Upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth on one or both sides
- Open bite — Front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed, often caused by prolonged thumb sucking
Research from the National Library of Medicine shows that correcting these issues during adolescence leads to better long-term outcomes than waiting until adulthood, when the jaw has fully hardened.
Braces and Teen Life: Sports, Activities, and Social Life
Sports and Braces
Teens can absolutely continue playing sports with braces. We strongly recommend wearing an orthodontic mouthguard during any contact sport or physical activity. Orthodontic mouthguards are designed to fit over brackets and protect teeth, lips, and cheeks from impact. We keep mouthguards available at our office — just ask at your next appointment.
Playing Musical Instruments
Wind and brass instrument players may experience a short adjustment period after getting braces. Most teens adapt within one to two weeks. Orthodontic wax can help reduce any irritation from brackets while playing.
Eating with Braces
Teens with braces should avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods that can damage brackets and wires. This means no popcorn, hard candy, ice chewing, or sticky gum. However, there are still plenty of delicious options — soft fruits, yogurt, pasta, chicken, and yes, even pizza (just avoid the crunchy crust).
Oral Hygiene for Teens with Braces
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is especially important during orthodontic treatment. The American Dental Association recommends that orthodontic patients brush after every meal and floss daily. We teach every teen patient the proper brushing and flossing techniques for braces, and we recommend using:
- A soft-bristled or electric toothbrush
- Fluoride toothpaste
- Floss threaders or orthodontic flossers
- A Waterpik water flosser for thorough cleaning around brackets
- Antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria
How Long Does Teen Orthodontic Treatment Take?
The average treatment time for teenagers is 12 to 24 months, depending on the severity of the orthodontic issues. Teens who follow their orthodontist’s instructions — wearing elastics as directed, keeping appointments, and maintaining good hygiene — typically finish on time or even ahead of schedule.
After Braces: The Importance of Retainers
When braces come off, the journey is not over. Custom retainers are essential to maintain the results. Without consistent retainer wear, teeth will naturally shift back toward their original positions. Dr. Weeks will provide a personalized retainer plan — most teens wear retainers full-time for the first few months, then transition to nighttime-only wear.
How Much Do Teen Braces Cost?
Orthodontic treatment for teenagers at Weeks Orthodontics typically ranges from $3,000 to $6,000, depending on the type of treatment and complexity. We offer flexible payment plans, work with most insurance providers, and provide family discounts. Your teen’s free consultation includes a personalized cost estimate with no obligation.
Schedule Your Teen’s Free Orthodontic Consultation
Give your teenager the gift of a confident, healthy smile. Book a free consultation at Weeks Orthodontics in Winter Springs or Oviedo, or call us at (407) 699-1102. We look forward to helping your teen smile with confidence.