Teeth-Straightening Solutions From The Teenage Years And Beyond
Sheppard Village Dental - Over 3k Ortho Cases
Sheppard Village Dental - Ortho FAQ's
Sheppard Village Dental - At what age can a patient get Orthodontic treatment?
By the time children reach their early teens, most of their baby teeth have been replaced by adult teeth. Even before all their permanent teeth come in, it’s often clear if there will be crowding or misalignment. Starting orthodontic treatment at this stage helps guide their smile as it settles into its final form.
Orthodontics isn’t just about improving the appearance of a smile—it plays a crucial role in oral health. Misaligned teeth or an improper bite can be harder to clean, cause discomfort, and even lead to pain. These concerns can often be corrected within six months with the right treatment.
Signs your teen may benefit from orthodontic care:
- Overbite: Upper teeth extend too far forward.
- Excessive spacing: Gaps or spaces between teeth.
- Underbite: Lower teeth protrude further than the upper teeth.
- Crowding: Teeth overlap or are too tight to floss effectively.
- Crossbite: The bite does not align comfortably.
- Pain: Persistent headaches, jaw discomfort, or pain in the neck and upper back.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
A variety of treatments are available to suit each patient’s unique needs and budget. Here are some of the options you may consider:
Traditional Braces
When thinking about braces, the image of large metal brackets with wires may come to mind. However, modern braces are much smaller, more discreet, and just as effective as older designs. They’re also easier to clean and more comfortable to wear.
Clear Brackets
For those who prefer braces but want a subtler option, clear brackets are a great choice. Popular among teens and young adults, they combine the effectiveness of traditional braces with a less noticeable appearance. At a glance, they’re hard to detect.
Clear Aligners
Transparent aligners like Invisalign have become a top choice for orthodontic treatment. These custom-made trays gradually adjust the position of teeth. They fit snugly, can be removed for meals or special events, and make brushing and flossing effortless.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthodontic care is often most effective in younger patients before all their adult teeth come in. If you’re a parent, consider scheduling a consultation for your teen. However, adults can also benefit from orthodontics—it’s never too late to enhance your smile.
Braces don’t cause pain when they’re initially placed. As your teeth begin to shift, you may experience some discomfort, which most people describe as more irritating than painful. If you’re feeling any significant discomfort, let us know—there are ways to make your treatment more comfortable.
Stay away from foods that could damage your braces, like caramel, candy apples, or popcorn, and anything that’s hard to clean, such as gum. Additionally, acidic or sugary foods can be harder to remove and may cause issues. For clear braces, avoid foods that might stain, like beets, curry, or certain processed foods.
Contact us immediately. Don’t wait until your next scheduled appointment to address the issue.
Special tools like floss threaders or super floss make it easier to clean around braces and permanent retainers. We’d be happy to demonstrate proper flossing techniques at your next visit.
Treatment time varies. Minor adjustments may take as little as six months, while more comprehensive treatment typically lasts between six months and two years. After an oral exam, we can provide a more accurate timeline for your case.
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