Teenagers are pretty amazing. Complex, curious, driven, creative—it’s a time of life when many changes are taking place, usually for the better. Orthodontic treatment can be one of those major changes! Texas Family Orthodontics wants to talk to you about the best treatment options for teens.
Which is Which?
Texas Family Orthodontics is a one-stop shop for all things orthodontics! But as we said, teenagers really are a special case. Here are some of the treatments we offer and how they connect back to teens:
- Metal Braces: Traditional metal braces are the go-to option for many age groups for good reason. They’re special in the fact that they can address simple and complex orthodontic conditions and can feature additional components like rubber bands to customize treatment.
- For Teens: Traditional braces offer reliability, making them a valuable option for teens. Unlike clear aligners, they require less day-to-day maintenance since they are fixed to the teeth. However, challenges like proper cleaning and periodic adjustments are still common.
- Clear Braces: Clear braces are different in terms of how brackets are made. Where they’re traditionally metal, clear braces bear ceramic brackets that are far closer to the color of teeth.
- For Teens: The advantage of clear braces for teenagers is usually cosmetic. If they’d rather not have metal brackets, this can be seen as a more “subtle” option. The Propel system we use is also made to offer an accelerated treatment plan.
- InBrace Lingual Braces: This option is one that not every practice offers. It can offer the same results as a traditional braces appliance, but it’s placed behind the teeth instead of on the front surfaces and requires less manual intervention from Dr. Vo.
- For Teens: This “hidden” approach can mark an excellent compromise for teens concerned with the appearance of their treatment. They can eat, drink, and clean without additional adjustments as well.
- Clear Aligners: Clear aligners are a specialized treatment option that consists of clear plastic trays made for each patient individually, using 3D scanning technology. Over time, these slightly different trays guide teeth into their new positions.
- For Teens: Clear aligners can provide a uniquely natural appearance. However, they come with more responsibilities. Teens must remember to switch to the next set of aligners on schedule, remove them for eating and drinking, and keep track of them at all times. For some teens, these extra challenges may outweigh the benefits.
Teenaged Tendencies
Compared to kids or adults, teenagers choosing orthodontic treatment have some special circumstances to consider. A lot of these relate to their lifestyle and how braces or aligners work with and around it.
- A Heavy Responsibility: Braces and clear aligners require teenagers to take on a higher level of responsibility in terms of personal care and hygiene. It’s important for teens to understand this before beginning treatment. Part of our job at Texas Family Orthodontics is to work with them and help them get ready to take on this new commitment.
- Oral Hygiene: Between school, social activities, and extracurriculars, it can be hard for teenagers to find time for superb oral hygiene. We recommend using special tools like interdental toothbrushes, floss threaders, and water threaders to help make cleaning less of a chore during busy days.
- Dietary Changes: Adolescents, in particular, can have trouble giving up their favorite foods, which might put their orthodontic appliance at risk. Parents can help this issue by offering alternative snacks and treats that are kinder to their teeth.
- An Eventful Time: Whether it’s a school dance, graduation ceremony, or sporting event, our office team will work with your family to make sure appointments are being scheduled to accommodate these important events. Grin remote monitoring can be a great tool for this!
- Managing Speech Adjustments: This challenge ties into the social aspects of having braces. Teenagers, perhaps more than children or adults, may struggle with speech adjustments during treatment. While it can impact their confidence, practicing speaking can help them adapt more quickly.
- Sports: Some sports, like football, hockey, or cheerleading, can pose a high risk of mouth injury in teenagers. If they have braces and are participating in any of these sports, a mouthguard should be worn to avoid serious injury.
- Acne and Sensitive Skin: Braces can sometimes irritate the skin around the mouth, which can be particularly uncomfortable for teens already managing acne. Applying orthodontic wax can help reduce irritation while maintaining a consistent skincare routine is often the best solution.
- Addressing Questions and Concerns: Many teenagers may feel reluctant to bring up their concerns with Dr. Vo. Our goal is to ensure they feel comfortable and confident in maintaining open communication so their questions and concerns are heard and properly addressed no matter what!
A Triumphant Treatment
We totally understand why teenagers are nervous before they start their orthodontic treatment—but Dr. Vo and our team are here to help make this process less daunting however we can. Come visit us soon in our esteemed offices in San Antonio or Windcrest!