As a parent, you may have heard that orthodontic treatment for teens is an important part of achieving a healthy smile. However, getting orthodontic treatment can be an intimidating experience, and many parents want to be informed about what a treatment plan will entail. For this article, we sat down with Dr. Kelley Mingus, an experienced orthodontist, to get an in-depth look at what parents need to know about orthodontic treatment for their teens.
What Are Common Reasons Teens Need Orthodontic Treatment?
According to Dr. Mingus, teens often require orthodontic treatment because their jaws and mouths are still developing. As a result, an individual’s teeth can become overcrowded, crooked, or malaligned. Other common reasons teens need orthodontic treatment include genetics, thumb-sucking, or pacifier use. In addition, some teens develop an overbite, underbite, or a large space between their upper and lower teeth. These conditions can impact not only a teen’s smile, but also their jaw alignment and bite.
When Is the Right Time for Teens to Get Orthodontic Treatment?
In general, Dr. Mingus recommends that parents have a consultation with an orthodontist by the age of 7. After the consultation and an orthodontist examines a teen’s mouth, they can provide a clear picture of whether orthodontic treatment is necessary. If Dr. Mingus recommends orthodontic treatment, then the teenager can start treatment at the earliest age to optimize their results and make treatment more effective.
What Types of Treatment Is Available for Teens?
Various types of orthodontic treatments are available for teens, and the right treatment will depend on an individual’s specific problem. Most commonly, an orthodontist will recommend braces, which can be made of metal, ceramic, or clear material. All types of braces work in the same way and create a constant pressure on the teeth to move them to their proper location. In some cases, an orthodontist may also recommend Invisalign treatment, which uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth.
Teens are also likely to have to visit the orthodontist regularly to have their braces adjusted. Over time, the wires and bands will be replaced to ensure that the teeth continue to move into the designated positions. In some cases, an orthodontist may also recommend orthognathic surgery to help correct jaw and bite abnormalities.
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment for Teens typically Last?
The length of time for orthodontic treatment will depend on the individual and the severity of their problem. In general, though, Dr. Mingus states that most teens need up to two years of orthodontic treatment. During this time, it is essential that a teen keeps regular appointments with their orthodontist, follows the orthodontist’s instructions with respect to brushing and flossing, and avoids activities that may damage the braces.
Things Parents Should Consider Before Choosing an Orthodontist for their Teen
Before choosing an orthodontist, parents should verify that the orthodontist is properly licensed and has received advanced training in orthodontics. Additionally, an orthodontist should be knowledgeable about the latest technologies and be able to provide a customized treatment plan for each individual. Finally, parents may also want to verify that the orthodontist has a positive attitude and communicates effectively with both the teen and the parents.
Conclusion
Orthodontic treatment can be an important and positive experience for teens, helping to improve their smiles and overall health. To ensure the best results, it is important for parents to work with a qualified orthodontist who can provide a customized treatment plan. By taking the time to research orthodontic options and find the right professional, parents can help their teen achieve the healthy and beautiful smile that they deserve.