Even though braces are common among teenagers, getting them is a new orthodontic experience for every patient. Teens and their parents tend to have many questions about braces and other orthodontic treatments for teens, when to get braces, and what having braces will be like. Here are some of the most common questions orthodontists hear from teenage patients and their parents.
We recommend that teens get braces after their permanent teeth emerge and before puberty. This means the best time to get braces is between ages 9 and 14. However, if possible, do not wait until the child is nine years old to take them to the orthodontist for the first time. According to the American Academy of Orthodontics, children should have an orthodontic consultation at seven years old to determine if they would benefit from early treatment.
The adjustment period for braces can bring discomfort. Many patients report feeling some pressure as the wires shift the teeth. While adjusting to the brackets can also be uncomfortable at first, especially if a bracket pokes into the inner lip or cheek, the discomfort is temporary. Orthodontic wax can be placed over the bracket to ease this pain. Any pain and discomfort should go away in a few days. It is normal for the patient to forget they have braces, at least until their braces have to be tightened.
Braces are tightened every four to six weeks. Just like the first few days of having braces, patients report feeling discomfort after having their braces tightened. The orthodontist will provide a care package with tools that can help soothe the pain, such as bite wafers and orthodontic wax. To ease pain with a bite wafer, the patient must bite lightly on the wafer to stimulate the gums. Over-the-counter pain medication and oral anesthetics can also help manage any initial pain.
Most teens will have braces for about one to three years. They will then need to wear a retainer all day (except when eating and drinking) for up to a year. At this point, the orthodontist will advise on how to taper off the retainer. This typically means they will only need to wear it while sleeping. Eventually, they will not need the retainer at all.
Yes, braces do not have to stick out. The orthodontist offers rubber bands in a variety of colors and shades — that includes clear rubber brands, which can make one’s braces less noticeable. Clear rubber bands are very popular for this reason. However, many patients enjoy experimenting with different colors. Some get their favorite color or sports team colors. Others may match their braces to their eye color, style, or even the season (such as orange braces for Halloween).
In addition to a picture-perfect smile, orthodontics for teens make it easier to take care of the teeth for years to come. Put your teen on the path to long-lasting dental health. Our team can discuss the options available, from braces to retainers and more.
To learn more about our services, visit https://hwangorthodontics.com or call our Monrovia office at (626) 425-9986 to schedule an appointment.
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