Experience Fast and Effective Orthodontic Treatment for Teenagers in Greenwood Village
More Comfortable, Sleek, and Easy to Clean!
Are you looking for a more discreet orthodontic treatment than traditional metal braces? Dr. Derek Straffon can help you achieve the smile you have always imagined—with a sleeker and more comfortable option!
Unlike conventional braces, the 303 Smiles System uses gentle forces designed to protect the health of your teeth and gums during treatment. The 303 Smiles System achieves a smile that is more than straight teeth—it provides a beautiful, natural smile.
This can only be achieved in the hands of someone who has worked on this amazing method, like Dr. Straffon! Having the teeth upright and aligned into a smile “arc” adds to a smile’s appeal.
What Types Of Braces Are Best For Teens?
Metal Braces
These are the braces many people are familiar with. They consist of small metal pieces on each tooth, connected by a wire. This wire slowly helps shift teeth into place. They’re the most affordable option, but they can be easily seen.
If your teen is concerned about how they look, consider other options like ceramic braces or Invisalign.
Ceramic Braces
These work similarly to metal braces but are more discreet and blend with the teeth, making them less noticeable. They cost more and might get stained if not cleaned well. They’re good for teens who prefer less visible braces.
Invisalign
Invisalign consists of clear tooth covers that are almost invisible and can be removed, making eating and cleaning teeth easier. They’re also great for events like prom or sports because they can be taken out.
At the start, we’ll take a digital picture of your child’s teeth to make these. Your teen will switch to Invisalign every few weeks until their teeth are in place.
Benefits Of Starting Braces While Your Teen Is Still Developing
Braces can significantly benefit your teen. They not only enhance their appearance, but also improve speech, eating , breathing, and sleep. Straight teeth are easier to clean, which helps prevent dental issues.
The teenage years are ideal for braces. This is because their adult teeth are in, but their jaws are still growing. This makes it easier and quicker to adjust their teeth.
Your teen might be nervous about getting braces, wondering if they’ll hurt or how they’ll look. But our team will explain everything to them and support them through the process. Plus, many other teens have braces too, so they won’t be alone. Even some of our team members have had braces!
When Should Your Teen Get Braces?
typically begins when the child has lost most of their baby teeth and their permanent teeth have started to come in.
This typically occurs between the ages of 10 and 14. However, every child is different, and it is best to consult with an orthodontist to determine the appropriate time for your teen to get braces.
The orthodontist will evaluate their dental alignment, jaw development, and any existing issues that may require corrective treatment. Early intervention can help prevent more severe orthodontic problems and may result in a shorter treatment time.
Advantages of Getting Braces as a Teen vs. as an Adult
When it comes to getting braces, timing is everything. Many individuals undergo orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth and correct their bites. While braces can be worn at any age, there are advantages to getting braces as a teen compared to waiting until adulthood. Let’s explore the advantages of getting braces as a teenager versus an adult.
1. Faster Results
Teenagers tend to experience faster results with braces due to their still-growing jawbones. The bones in the jaw are more malleable during adolescence, making it easier for orthodontic appliances to move teeth into their desired positions. This means that the treatment time may be shorter for teenagers compared to adults, providing them with a quicker path to a straighter smile.
2. Peer Support
Teenagers are often surrounded by their peers, who may also be going through orthodontic treatment. This shared experience can provide emotional support and a sense of camaraderie. When wearing braces, teens can exchange tips, discuss their progress, and offer encouragement to one another. This peer support can make the orthodontic journey more enjoyable and help teens feel less self-conscious about their appearance.
3. Cost Savings
Orthodontic treatment can be a significant financial investment, and the cost of braces is often lower for teenagers. Some dental insurance plans provide more comprehensive benefits for orthodontic treatment during adolescence.
Additionally, parents may have the financial means to support their child’s orthodontic needs while they are still minors. Waiting until adulthood may require individuals to bear the full financial burden themselves, which can be more challenging.
4. Preventive Care
Getting braces as a teenager can address orthodontic issues before they worsen. Dentists and orthodontists recommend early intervention for certain conditions, as it can prevent more severe problems in the future. By addressing misaligned teeth or a problematic bite during adolescence, teenagers can enjoy a healthier and more functional smile as they transition into adulthood.
5. Enhanced Confidence
Teenagers often struggle with self-esteem and body image, and misaligned teeth can contribute to these insecurities. By getting braces during adolescence, teens have the opportunity to correct their smile and improve their self-confidence. A straighter smile can positively impact their interactions and overall well-being, boosting their self-esteem during a crucial phase of their life.
6. Long-Term Benefits
Investing in braces as a teenager sets the foundation for a lifetime of oral health. Correcting dental misalignments and bite issues at a younger age can prevent future complications, such as gum disease, tooth decay, or jaw joint problems.
By taking action during their teenage years, individuals can ensure the long-term health and stability of their teeth.
While it is never too late to get braces, there are distinct advantages to undergoing orthodontic treatment as a teenager. Faster results, peer support, cost savings, preventive care, enhanced confidence, and long-term benefits are some of the advantages of getting braces during adolescence.
If you or your child requires orthodontic treatment, consulting with an orthodontist can help determine the best course of action and the most suitable timing for braces.
Considering Braces for Your Teen? Here Are a Few Things to Think About
Braces have become a common part of teenage life. Whether it’s for cosmetic reasons or to address bite issues, many teenagers are opting for orthodontic treatment.
If your teenager is considering braces, there are a few important factors to consider before starting the journey toward a straighter smile.
Consultation with an Orthodontist
Before making any decisions, it’s crucial to schedule a consultation with an experienced orthodontist. They will evaluate your teenager’s teeth, discuss their concerns and goals, and recommend the best treatment option. This initial consultation is essential in understanding the treatment process, potential challenges, and expected outcomes.
Treatment Duration
Orthodontic treatment using braces is not a quick fix and requires time and commitment. The duration of treatment can vary depending on the severity of the dental issues. On average, most teens wear braces for approximately 1-3 years. It’s important to consider the impact of this commitment on your teenager’s daily routine, school activities, and overall lifestyle.
Financial Considerations
Braces can be a significant investment, and it’s essential to consider the financial implications before starting treatment. Dental insurance may cover a portion of the cost, but it’s important to review the details of your plan and understand the coverage limits.
Some orthodontists offer flexible payment plans to help make the treatment more affordable. Researching and discussing financial aspects with the orthodontist will help you plan and budget accordingly.
Maintenance and Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital during orthodontic treatment with braces. The brackets and wires can trap food particles, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Your teenager will need to follow strict oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and using specialized tools like interdental brushes or water flossers. It’s crucial to ensure your teenager is prepared and committed to maintaining proper oral hygiene throughout the treatment.
Dietary Restrictions
Braces come with specific dietary restrictions. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can damage braces and slow down the treatment process.
It’s important to discuss these restrictions with your teenager and help them understand the importance of following the orthodontist’s recommendations. This might involve making adjustments to their diet and finding alternative options that are braces-friendly.
Potential Discomfort
It’s essential to prepare your teenager for potential discomfort during the treatment process. While getting braces on and making adjustments can cause temporary soreness, this discomfort usually subsides within a few days.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, orthodontic wax, or rinsing with warm salt water can provide relief. Emphasize to your teenager that this discomfort is temporary and part of the journey toward a healthier and more beautiful smile.
Follow-up Appointments and Adjustments
Orthodontic treatment requires regular follow-up appointments and adjustments. These appointments are crucial for monitoring progress, making necessary adjustments to the braces, and assessing the overall treatment plan.
Before committing to braces, consider the frequency of these visits and factor in their potential impact on your teenager’s schedule, especially if they have other commitments or extracurricular activities.
Braces can transform your teenager’s smile and boost their confidence. By carefully considering these factors, consulting with a knowledgeable orthodontist, and having open communication with your teenager, you can make an informed decision about whether braces are the right choice for their dental health and overall well-being.
What to Expect After Getting Braces
At 303 Smiles, we are dedicated to helping you achieve the straight, beautiful teeth you’ve always wanted.
Here’s what you can expect after getting braces from us:
1. Adjustment Period
After getting braces, it’s common to experience some discomfort or soreness for a few days. Your mouth will need time to adjust to the new fixtures. During this time, it’s important to stick to soft foods and avoid any hard or chewy items that could potentially damage your braces.
2. Regular Check-Ups
Throughout your orthodontic treatment, you will have regular check-ups with our skilled orthodontists. These appointments are crucial for monitoring progress and making any necessary adjustments to your braces. Be sure to attend these check-ups as scheduled to ensure the best results.
3. Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential when you have braces. It’s important to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to properly clean your braces and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Regular dental cleanings are also recommended to prevent plaque buildup and keep your teeth in excellent condition.
4. Dietary Restrictions
While you have braces, there are certain foods you should avoid to prevent damage or breakage. Sticky candies, popcorn, hard candies, and chewing gum should be avoided as they can get stuck in your braces or cause damage. It’s best to stick to a diet of soft foods and cut your food into small, bite-sized pieces.
5. Treatment Duration
The duration of your orthodontic treatment will depend on various factors, including the complexity of your case and how well you follow our instructions. On average, most people wear braces for about 1-3 years. However, this can vary from person to person.
6. Retainers
After your braces are removed, you will need to wear retainers to maintain the results of your treatment.
Retainers help to keep your teeth in their new positions and prevent them from shifting. Our team will provide you with the necessary instructions on how often to wear your retainers and how to take care of them.
Remember, getting braces is an investment in your oral health and confidence. With the right care and commitment, you’ll soon be showing off a brand-new, dazzling smile.
Brace Services We Offer
Are you a teenager looking for orthodontic treatment? Look no further than 303 Smiles, where we offer a range of brace services tailored specifically for teenagers.
We understand that adolescence can be a challenging time, and we want to ensure that your dental experience is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Here are some of the brace services we offer:
Damon Braces
Damon Braces are a cutting-edge alternative to traditional metal braces that offer numerous benefits. With Damon Braces, teenagers can achieve straighter teeth and a beautiful smile in less time compared to traditional braces.
These braces use a unique, self-ligating system that eliminates the need for elastic or metal ties, resulting in greater comfort and fewer office visits for adjustments.
Damon Braces are designed to be discreet and blend in with natural teeth, allowing teenagers to feel more confident throughout their orthodontic treatment.
Trust our team at 303 Smiles to provide exceptional Damon Braces services that will leave teenagers with a confident, healthy smile.
Pitts21 Braces
One of the braces options that we provide is Pitts21 braces. These braces are designed to address common orthodontic issues in teenagers, such as crooked teeth, overcrowding, and misalignments.
Pitts21 braces are known for their precision and effectiveness in achieving beautiful smiles. With our expertise and the use of Pitts21 braces, we are dedicated to helping teenagers achieve straight, healthy teeth and boost their confidence in their smiles.
Get Started With Braces With Us!
Getting braces as a teenager can be a significant step towards achieving a beautiful and healthy smile.
Here at 303 Smiles, we understand the importance of guiding teenagers through this process. Our team of skilled orthodontists and friendly staff are dedicated to making the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.
We offer a range of braces options and treatments tailored specifically to teenagers, ensuring that they feel confident and supported throughout their orthodontic journey.
From the initial consultation to the final results, we are here to provide exceptional care and support for teenagers looking to improve their smiles.
Set an appointment with the best Orthodontist in Greenwood Village by giving us a call today! Give us a call at 303.758.3414.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Are Braces For Teens?
At 303 Smiles, we make a treatment plan just for you, so costs can be different for everyone. But with insurance and our payment plans, braces and Invisalign usually cost about the same. We’ll make sure you know all the costs before we start, and help you find a way to pay that works for you.
Some teens and parents try to use cheaper, mail-order braces. But these can be risky. Everyone’s teeth are different, so using the same treatment for everyone doesn’t always work.
Does Insurance Cover Braces for Teens?
Some dental plans do cover braces, but you should check the details. Some plans might have a yearly limit or only cover braces for health reasons, like a jaw issue.
If your insurance doesn’t cover braces, or if you don’t have dental insurance, Kristo Orthodontics has payment plans with no down payment and no interest, which can work for most budgets.
Is 14 too old for braces?
Braces fit people of all ages, from 14 to 41. If you’re an adult who never had the chance to get braces earlier, you can still get them now.
How long should a 14 year old wear braces?
You need to keep your teeth and braces clean to prevent cavities or gum problems. Treatment typically takes 1 to 2.5 years, and you’ll need to see the orthodontist every 4 to 10 weeks.
Dr. Straffon offers both Invisalign and Invisalign Teen in 303 Smiles, because this is truly the clear alternative to braces! To find out if our orthodontic team can help transform your smile with Invisalign, call 303.758.3414 or click here to schedule your complementary Dr. Straffon Smile Assessment. This completely complementary, no-obligation initial consultation includes a complete orthodontic exam, digital photos, digital x-rays when needed, and a comprehensive treatment consultation. During this consultation, Dr. Straffon will be glad to discuss using the Invisalign system to start you on your journey to a more beautiful smile!