The teenage years are one of the most common and effective times to begin orthodontic treatment. By this stage, most permanent teeth have erupted, making it easier to identify concerns such as crowding, spacing, crooked teeth, and bite problems. At Maryville Family Orthodontics, Dr. Monica Ginart creates personalized treatment plans designed to help teens achieve healthy, confident smiles.
When Is the Best Age to Get Braces?
For many patients, orthodontic treatment between the ages of 11 and 15 provides the ideal timing for braces or clear aligners. During these years, the teeth and jaws are still developing, allowing orthodontic treatment to work more efficiently.
Since most permanent teeth are already in place by age 12, orthodontic issues can often be corrected more effectively before adulthood.
Why Is Orthodontic Treatment Common During the Teen Years?
The adolescent years offer several advantages for orthodontic treatment. Many teens feel more comfortable wearing braces because their friends and classmates are also going through treatment. In addition, younger patients often adapt quickly to orthodontic appliances and oral care routines.
Benefits of teen orthodontic treatment include:
- Improved bite alignment and smile appearance
- Easier correction of crowding and spacing issues
- Potentially shorter treatment times
- Increased confidence during important developmental years
- Better long-term oral health
What Problems Can Braces Correct?
Orthodontic treatment can address a variety of dental and bite concerns that usually do not improve on their own.
Common orthodontic problems include:
- Crooked teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbites and underbites
- Crowded teeth
- Jaw alignment concerns
Early correction can help improve both function and appearance while supporting lifelong dental health.
What Happens During the First Orthodontic Consultation?
Your complimentary consultation is designed to help you understand your child’s orthodontic needs and treatment options. During the visit, Dr. Ginart will evaluate the teeth and bite, discuss any concerns, and explain the recommended treatment plan.
We will also review:
- Estimated treatment time
- Available treatment options
- Expected costs and financing solutions
- The best timing to begin treatment
At Maryville Family Orthodontics, we are committed to making orthodontic care comfortable, personalized, and affordable for every family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about teen orthodontic treatment, braces for adolescents, clear aligners, and what families can expect during orthodontic care at Maryville Family Orthodontics.
Why are the teenage years considered the best time for braces?
During adolescence, most permanent teeth have erupted while the jaw is still developing. This allows orthodontic treatment to work more efficiently and often makes correcting bite and alignment issues easier than later in adulthood.
How long do teens usually wear braces?
Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of the case, but most adolescent orthodontic treatment lasts between 18 and 24 months. Dr. Monica Ginart will provide a personalized estimate during the consultation.
What happens if my teen forgets to wear rubber bands or aligners?
Consistent wear is important for keeping treatment on schedule. Not wearing rubber bands or aligners as instructed can slow progress and extend overall treatment time.
Does dental insurance cover braces for teens?
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for adolescent treatment. Our team works with most PPO insurance plans and helps families maximize their orthodontic coverage whenever possible.