Adolescent Treatment

While there is no set age for orthodontic treatment, there’s a reason braces are typically associated with teenagers.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children be evaluated by an orthodontist around 7 years of age. But if no early treatment is needed, orthodontists typically wait until all a child’s baby teeth have been lost before making another evaluation for any spacing, overcrowding, or bite issues. This often happens just as a child is entering their teens.

Why Is Adolescent Treatment So Important?

Adolescent treatment is popular because problems that appear in the early teens will only become more severe if not addressed. Tackling issues before adulthood, when the patient is growing and their bones are still developing, can mean greatly reduced cost and treatment time.

What Types of Problems Can Adolescent Treatment Fix?

You can expect orthodontics to improve more than your smile! This includes:

Bite issues (Over, under, cross)

Jaw pain prevention

Spacing problems (crowded or gapped teeth)

Airway impediments

Gum diseases

If a teen is also having trouble chewing, speaking, or biting, one of our orthodontists can look at what’s causing the problem in order to determine the best solution.

What Kinds of Orthodontic Treatments Are Available for Teens?

Braces are still the most common form of treatment for teens, though current technology offers an array of options. For instance, some patients choose clear ceramic brackets rather than traditional metal. For mild to moderate cases, clear aligners like Invisalign provide nearly invisible treatment: a perfect option for any teen who’s nervous about how braces will affect their comfort or smile.

Find an Orthodontist in Columbia, MD

If you’re looking for adolescent orthodontic treatment in Columbia, MD, it’s critical to find an orthodontist who can determine how any issues are progressing so they can find the most efficient path forward.

We at Saini Orthodontics know that the adolescent period can be a busy time for many families, but we also know how imperative it is to intervene with dental issues as early as possible. If you’re looking for an expert orthodontic practice that provides the highest quality of care while making every effort to save you money and hassle in the long run, contact us for an appointment today!