Learn About Orthodontic Treatment for Teens
Braces are no longer as scary as many adolescents might imagine. Today, braces come in a variety of styles, materials and colors which makes life with braces easier, more comfortable and even stylish. Patients can now choose from different treatment options like traditional metal, ceramic and invisible braces. If you don’t want people to know you have braces, we even offer Invisalign for teens which provides a discrete way to straighten your teeth.
Depending on the treatment you decide on with your Buffalo orthodontist, treatment times will vary. Aside from which treatment you and your orthodontist select, your body’s response time and how much work is required of the orthodontist are two factors responsible in determining treatment time. Regardless of the type of braces you choose, it is important that you avoid sticky, hard or chewy foods as they may damage your braces and prolong your treatment time.
Dentofacial Orthopedics
Dentofacial orthopedics is a common form of treatment for both young people and adults. However, dentofacial orthopedic treatment is usually more tolerable for younger patients. In children and adolescents, the purpose of dentofacial orthopedics is to help guide the growth of the bones. This is easier in children and adolescents because their bones have not yet finished growing.
Although it is a common orthodontic treatment for teens and younger patients, adult patients can also benefit from dentofacial orthopedic treatment. However, it is important to note that the bones in the face of an adult have finished growing. This is why adults undergoing dentofacial orthopedics will often require surgery during their treatment. This is because it is much more difficult to adjust the bite and move the teeth to the right places in adults.
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The Advantages and Disadvantages of Clear Braces
When considering orthodontic treatment for teens, discrete options are usually a popular option for teenagers There are two distinct advantages of clear braces. The first is that clear braces are more favorable aesthetically. The brackets are distinctly less obvious with clear braces. This is because they are made from ceramic. This is a huge benefit for people who feel self-conscious about the fact that they will be pursuing orthodontic treatment. The second advantage is in the treatment time. In many instances, clear braces provide results faster than clear aligners.
There are some disadvantages with clear braces. The first is that some may find the cost restrictive. Clear braces are more expensive than traditional braces. If you find that clear braces are outside of your financial reach, talk with your orthodontist about financing options. Our office accepts all insurances and will submit all paperwork and apply any benefit received in-office toward your fees. The second disadvantage is that the ceramic brackets are susceptible to staining. If any staining occurs, the brackets will likely become more conspicuous. Patients usually dedicate considerable time and effort to keep clear braces clean.
Invisalign Is A Popular Orthodontic Treatment for Teens
Invisalign is a very popular orthodontic treatment for teens and has many benefits. First, Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional braces. If you currently have traditional or clear braces, you do have the option of talking with your orthodontist to find out if you can switch to Invisalign. Many orthodontists treat their patients by combining the use of traditional braces and Invisalign.
One of the things that people, especially teenagers hate about having traditional or even clear braces is that they have to give up certain foods during treatment. With Invisalign, there are no food restrictions. One of the few times that you remove your aligners is when you are eating. Then, you clean your teeth and put your aligners back in. You can continue to eat crunchy foods, drink coffee, and eat foods with tomato based sauces. The only restriction generally given with Invisalign is to avoid chewing gum. This is because chewing gum sticks to your aligners.
Invisalign is clear and easy to use. They are a great orthodontic treatment for teens who are worried about the attention they may get from wearing traditional braces. Since they look and fit similar to a custom whitening tray, they aren’t as noticeable during treatment. Some patients do report having a small lisp during the first few days of treatment. However, this goes away as your tongue learns to navigate in your mouth with the aligners.
Schedule a Free Consultation To Learn More About Orthodontic Treatment for Teens
If you have any questions about orthodontic treatment for teens and want to learn about your available options, please call one of our five convenient locations throughout Western New York to schedule a free screening.
Orthodontists Associates of Western New York is proud to offer orthodontic treatment for teens throughout Buffalo, Lancaster, Olean, Hamburg, Orchard Park, and Dunkirk, New York. If you are considering braces or clear aligners for yourself or a loved one, please contact one of our 5 convenient orthodontic offices to arrange a free consultation.
Our reputation as a leader in orthodontic care is based on one thing… Making a Healthy and Beautiful Smile
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