What Type Of Braces Are Best For Teenagers?

Orthodontists consider the teenage years the best time for orthodontic treatment. Now that most adult teeth have erupted, your orthodontist can easily identify any current or future orthodontic problems. This also enables the creation of a comprehensive treatment plan. The growth of muscles and bones in the jaws also makes guiding teeth into their proper alignment easier.

Orthodontists use braces to correct dental issues such as crooked or misaligned teeth, gaps, underbites and overbites. Braces not only improve the overall appearance of teeth, they also improve the patient’s oral health.

We appreciate some teenagers may get nervous about the appearance of braces. Fortunately, there are several options available when choosing the most appropriate types of braces for teens.

1. Traditional metal braces

Traditional metal braces are the tried, tested, and proven orthodontic treatment. Modern braces are the treatment against which most other treatments are compared. Metal braces are the most efficient treatment for straightening teeth.

As orthodontic technology has improved, the metal brackets and archwires have become smaller while still providing the ability to reposition teeth effectively. Brackets now have lower profiles and smoother edges making them more comfortable to wear and less visible.

Generally speaking, metal braces are the most economical and efficient method of straightening teeth. In the event our patient is conscious about their appearance, there are other types of braces that may be more suitable.

2. Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces are very similar to traditional metallic braces. The main difference exists in the bracket and the material used to make it. Ceramic braces are made from a tooth-coloured clear ceramic material.

Combined with clear ligatures, they are significantly less visible than normal braces making them popular with self-conscious teens. Clear braces need more attention to oral hygiene to prevent staining and discolouration, unlike stainless braces. 

3. Lingual braces

Lingual braces are attached to the back surface of the teeth, facing the tongue. The position allows lingual braces to be almost invisible while smiling making them a popular option for teens seeking discreet orthodontic treatment.

Given their placement, lingual braces require extra care with brushing and flossing to maintain optimal dental health. Some patients may also experience a period of adjustment as the braces can initially cause minor discomfort. Most patients adjust quickly and adjust easily to daily life with lingual braces.

3. Invisalign

Invisalign is a virtually invisible orthodontic treatment that can straighten teeth without the need for traditional metal braces. Orthodontists use clear retainers to reposition teeth and correct the bite gradually. As treatment progresses, the orthodontist replaces the clear trays to maintain progress.

Clear aligners offer several advantages over traditional braces, most notably their almost invisible appearance. Being removable, they offer greater freedoms when it comes to eating and drinking.

Clear orthodontic retainers do have some limitations when it comes to complex orthodontic cases. They also depend on disciplined wear during treatment to ensure they meet the treatment goals and timeframe.

5. Mini braces

Mini braces are a smaller version of traditional metallic braces. While still offering an effective treatment for straightening teeth, they are less visible and more comfortable.

Mini braces have some additional food restrictions. With a smaller bracket, the orthodontist uses less orthodontic adhesive to attach the braces. Foods that are hard, crunchy and sticky can damage mini brackets and should be avoided. 

6. Self-ligating braces

Self-litigating braces work the same as traditional braces. The brackets are attached to the teeth and connected with an archwire. Unlike normal braces, self-litigating braces use built-in clips to retain the archwire. The clip reduces the friction between the archwire and brackets and allows for faster tooth movement often reducing treatment time.

7. Partial braces

Orthodontists may recommend partial braces to correct spacing, crowding, or overbites before a complete orthodontic treatment. Partial braces can be used to adjust the position and angle of individual teeth which can reduce the need for extraction.

Our orthodontists are here to help you choose the best orthodontic treatment for your needs.

MP Orthodontics is an orthodontic practice based in Cheltenham, Melbourne. Working from the belief that orthodontic treatment is much more than working with teeth and creating smiles, treating orthodontists – Dr Martin Poon and Dr Geoff Hall – approach patients as people first. Their approach is to work together and plan and implement treatment that meets each individual’s needs. Drawing on 30 plus years experience of helping children gain confidence through tailored treatment, MP Orthodontics, is a truly unique orthodontic practice.