Teeth straightening solutions from the teenage years and beyond
By around age 13, most children have lost their baby teeth and their adult teeth are nearly all in place. Even before the last few baby teeth fall out, it’s often clear where crowding will happen or where permanent teeth are growing in misaligned. This makes the early teen years the ideal time to begin orthodontic treatment, while the adult smile is still developing.
Orthodontic care is about more than just appearance. Misaligned teeth or bite issues can lead to difficulties with brushing and flossing, discomfort, or even chronic pain. With orthodontic treatment, many of these problems can be addressed in as little as six months.
- An overbite: when the upper teeth extend too far forward
- Excessive spacing: noticeable gaps between the teeth
- An underbite: when the lower teeth sit too far forward
- Crowding: when teeth overlap or are too tight to floss
- Crossbite: when the bite does not align comfortably
- Pain: including headaches, jaw pain, or tension in the neck or upper back
Your teen may benefit from orthodontic treatment if they experience:
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Every teen is different, and the right solution depends on their individual needs and budget. Some of the options we offer include:
Traditional Braces
When most people think of braces, they imagine metal brackets and wires. Thankfully, modern braces are smaller, sleeker, and far more comfortable. They’re also easier to clean, making them a practical and effective choice for many teens.
Clear Brackets
Clear brackets offer the benefits of traditional braces with a more subtle appearance. These are especially popular among young adults who want straighter teeth without drawing too much attention to their treatment.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners like Invisalign are increasingly popular for teens and adults alike. These transparent trays are custom made to fit snugly and gradually move teeth into alignment. They can be taken out for meals, brushing, and flossing, and are perfect for special occasions like school dances or presentations.
The cost of orthodontic treatment in Richmond
The cost of treatment varies based on your teen’s specific needs. With a standard insurance plan, out of pocket costs are often between $3000 and $5000 or more. Without insurance, treatment typically ranges from $4000 to $6000 or more.
- The current condition of teeth and gums
- The degree of movement required
- The type of treatment chosen
- The expected duration of treatment
Factors that affect cost include:
A full examination is the best way to determine which option is most effective for your teen and what your total cost will be.
If you are exploring orthodontic options for your teen, a consultation with a Dentist in Vancouver British Columbia can help you better understand what treatment will work best for your child and what outcomes to expect.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
While treatment is most effective before all adult teeth are in place, it’s never too late. Teens and adults alike can benefit from orthodontics. If you’re a parent, we recommend scheduling a consultation early.
Braces don’t hurt when first applied. Some discomfort may occur as teeth begin to shift, but most patients describe it as more of a dull pressure. If there’s any pain, let us know so we can help make adjustments.
Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods like candy apples, gum, popcorn, and corn on the cob. Also, steer clear of sugary and acidic foods that are harder to clean from around brackets. Some foods can stain clear brackets, including beets, curry, and certain packaged meals.
Give us a call as soon as possible. Do not wait until your next scheduled visit.
Flossing with braces is easier with floss threaders or super floss, designed specifically for navigating around wires and brackets. We’ll happily demonstrate how to use them during your appointment.
Treatment timelines vary. Some cases may be resolved in as little as six months, while most will take between six months and two years. After an oral exam, we can provide a more personalized timeline.
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