What to know about adolescent orthodontics

Parents of adolescents may have concerns about their child’s dental health. One of them being the possibility of orthodontic issues. If you are a parent of an adolescent and are concerned about their teeth, don’t worry – most patients fall into this category when they start treatment.

For reasons ranging from crooked teeth to self-esteem, teens desire braces. Dr. Cohen and Dr. Kotecki of Centerton Orthodontics offers adolescent orthodontics for those who need an effective treatment.  We cater to all patients with the traditional metal braces and the more esthetic ceramic or clear braces.

If you believe your child may have such issues, it’s important to see an orthodontist as soon as possible. It’s important to make sure such issues are corrected to ensure a better smile for your adolescent.

Why adolescent orthodontics (and why now is the best time)?

The adolescent years are a time when dental development is critical. Especially when jaw development is ongoing. At the same time, permanent teeth are moving in place. However, your adolescent’s teeth may be facing certain challenges.

This may include overcrowding, overbites, or similar issues. These issues can lead to problems that can hinder jaw development. It’s important that they are corrected through teen braces in NJ or other treatment approaches we’ll discuss briefly. The sooner a treatment plan is in place, the better.

A specialized treatment for your adolescent

No treatment plan is created equal. Any orthodontist that offers adolescent braces in NJ will tell you this. That’s why it’s important to set an appointment to have an examination done.

Here is the framework of how the treatment process works for each patient at Centerton Orthodontics.

Initial exam and molds

The first step is an initial exam. This will confirm any orthodontic issues that may exist. A dentist may notice this during their own exam and refer their findings to a children’s orthodontist in NJ.

Deciding on the type of treatment

This will be dependent on the severity of the orthodontic issue. If the orthodontic situation is not as severe, clear aligners for Invisalign might be the best option. Braces can still be a good option as well. For more severe orthodontic issues, braces may be the best option as clear aligners won’t be as effective. In our office, patients can choose from an array of colors that go on the braces to match their favorite sports team or celebrate school spirit. If your child is a candidate for Invisalign, we’ll go through a process that will ensure their aligners will be a perfect fit throughout the treatment process.

Implementation

The treatment begins. Your adolescent will begin their Invisalign treatment. Or they might begin wearing braces. At the start, the orthodontist will provide your adolescent with instructions on how to take care of their appliances. They will also strongly suggest continuing an oral health care plan that includes brushing twice daily and flossing once a day.

Follow-up appointments

During the treatment period, regular appointments are done to make any necessary adjustments. These will include changing up appliances such as wires for the braces. Also, aligner wears may be fitted for new liners that will help continue the process.

Completion

After the prescribed time period, the braces are removed or the aligners are no longer used. For those who are wearing braces, they may be recommended to wear a retainer to keep their straight smile in place.

When should an adolescent visit an orthodontist?

The best time for an adolescent to visit someone who specializes in adolescent orthodontics will be as soon as possible signs of issues are present. A parent or guardian can schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist or an orthodontist for an exam. This can confirm whether or not such signs exist.

If examined by a dentist, they will send you a referral to an orthodontist. You have the option to have an orthodontist directly examine you during the initial appointment. Either way, it’s important to make sure whether or not such orthodontic issues exist. As a parent, you’ll want to make sure your adolescent gets the care they need and not allow these issues to go unattended.

Orthodontic issues can lead to poor dental health later on in life. While you may have some concerns such as affordability, no need to worry. Centerton Orthodontics will work with you to find a plan that is flexible for your adolescent’s needs. We do our part to work with patients and their parents to ensure they get excellent quality care rather than worry about affordability.

Contact Centerton Orthodontics about your adolescents needs today

If your adolescent needs to see an orthodontist, we’re here to help. The team at Centerton Orthodontics has an office conveniently located in Pittsgrove, NJ and serves young patients in and around the South Jersey area. For more information, call 856-358-6800 or contact us for more details.

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