Adolescent orthodontic care
We associate many teens with orthodontic appliances like braces. Because of the changes adolescents go through at this time, their self awareness play a major role. Adolescence is the ideal time for orthodontic treatment, but occasionally treatments are necessary even earlier. In other words there are no specific times. By the age 11 – 13 the deciduous (baby) teeth have all been lost, and the permanent ones start to come in. This is the perfect time to work on problems that cause bad bite (malocclusion), improper tooth spacing or poor alignment.
Orthodontic problems are much harder to treat with age, because the bones of the face and jaw gets fully developed. So treatments are most effective during adolescence.
There is a social aspect as well, associated with treatment during adolescence. A sort of kinship develops among piers who go through the same procedures.
The orthodontic treatment process
Based on the kind of treatment you require, we have different opinions. For first time visitors, we take X-ray images of your mouth and a model of your bite. Based on that, we develop a treatment plan that could involve regular braces with or without elastics (rubber band). You might also require specialized appliances for a period of time.
Metal braces
Metal braces have become smaller and lighter. There are also customized options like coloured elastic ties on the brackets.
Clear braces
These blend with your teeth and are made of ceramic or composite materials. They are harder to notice on teeth.
Clear aligners
These are removable, clear plastic trays that straighten teeth as they are worn 22 hours per day. They are practically invisible and quite appropriate for teens.
Lingual braces
The most unnoticeable form of orthodontic treatment. This is because they are attached to the back of the teeth.
There are also other appliances for which major tooth or jaw movement is required. Some fit inside the mouth and some are external headgears. All of them are temporary. They provide long term benefits in a short period.