Treatment
Teen orthodontics
Teen orthodontics is treatment during roughly ages 11 to 15, when most adult teeth have come in and the jaws are still growing. That combination often makes it a good time to straighten teeth and correct the bite, using braces, clear aligners, or both.
The teen years are a common time for treatment, not a deadline. A complimentary Smile Analysis tells you and your teen whether treatment makes sense now, later, or not at all.
Awaiting clinical review by Dr. Camille J. Rose Kong, orthodontist.
Who is teen orthodontics for?
Treatment may be worth discussing if your teen has:
- Crowded, overlapping or twisted teeth.
- Gaps between teeth.
- An overbite, underbite or crossbite.
- Front teeth that stick out and could be easily injured.
- Teeth that are hard to keep clean because a brush cannot reach the overlaps.
- Started hiding their smile in photos or covering their mouth when they laugh.
What happens during teen treatment?
We involve both the teen and the parent at every step, and we explain everything in plain words.
The Smile Analysis
We take photographs and digital records, examine the teeth and bite, and listen to what your teen would like to change as well as what you have noticed.
Options for your teen
Your orthodontist explains whether treatment would help now or whether to wait, and which options suit your teen’s teeth, from metal or ceramic braces to clear aligners.
A plan for your family
You receive a written plan with the approach, visit rhythm, estimated timeline, insurance benefits and how payment works. We plan visits around school where we can.
During treatment
Regular visits keep treatment on track. Between visits, your teen can call or text us with any question, and so can you.
Retainers
When treatment is finished, retainers keep teeth in their new positions. We explain the retainer routine before treatment begins.
How long does teen treatment take?
How long teen treatment takes depends on how far the teeth need to move and how the bite needs to change.
With clear aligners, wear time also matters: trays work only while they are worn. You receive an estimated range for your teen’s plan at the Smile Analysis. It is an estimate, your teen’s plan may differ, and we tell you if it changes.
Why are the teen years good timing?
By around age 12, most children have all or nearly all of their adult teeth, which makes crowding, gaps and bite problems easier to see and plan for. At the same time the jaws are still developing, so an orthodontist can often guide teeth into place with growth rather than against it.
Waiting is not a problem in itself. Adults are treated every day. But teens are often in a routine where regular visits are easy to keep, and braces are common among their friends.
What if my teen cares how braces look?
- Ceramic braces: clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend in far more than metal.
- Champagne braces: a soft, warm finish instead of bright silver, often paired with ceramic on the upper teeth.
- Clear aligners: removable and discreet, for teens who will genuinely wear them for most of the day.
What about school, sports and food?
- Sports: a mouthguard that fits over braces protects the teeth and lips. We can help you choose one.
- Instruments: wind instrument players usually need a few weeks to adjust.
- Food: very hard, sticky or chewy foods go on hold, such as ice, hard sweets, caramel, whole nuts and popcorn. Most other foods are fine, cut smaller at first.
Questions we are often asked
Will braces hurt?
For the first few days after braces go on, and for a day or so after adjustments, teeth feel tender. It is pressure rather than sharp pain, it usually responds to over-the-counter pain relief taken as directed on the label, and most teens feel normal again within a week.
Does an evaluation mean treatment starts now?
No. Your orthodontist explains whether treatment, monitoring or another next step is right for your teen, and why. Nothing starts without your agreement.
Can my teen have clear aligners?
Often, yes, if they will wear the trays consistently. We discuss suitability, the daily routine and the alternatives openly with you and your teen.
What should we ask about insurance?
Ask whether your plan includes orthodontic benefits, and whether there are age limits or other conditions. Our team reviews your benefits with you and explains them in writing.
Sources
- MouthguardsAmerican Dental Association (MouthHealthy). Read September 30, 2026.
- What is an Orthodontic Emergency?American Association of Orthodontists. Read September 30, 2026.
Your next step
The simplest way to find out what is right for you is a complimentary Smile Analysis. Reserve a time online, or call or text us and we will be glad to help.