For a lot of teens, having braces is just a natural part of growing up. Perhaps you’re a teen who’s about to get braces or a parent who had braces once — in which case, you can relate. Or maybe you’re wondering: why do adolescence and orthodontic issues always seem to go hand-in-hand?

Are you thinking about getting adult braces? Maybe your kid or teen has talked about wanting to straighten their crooked teeth. If so, we can definitely help you out, however, you should know that braces come with more benefits than just a straight smile.

When you hear “orthodontics,” you probably think of teenagers with braces, but did you know that starting orthodontic treatment early can have life-changing benefits for younger kids? Early orthodontics (also known as Phase I treatment) is designed to address dental problems before they become more serious.

Some kids will be excited about the idea of getting braces. Others? Not so much. Everyone knows that wearing braces isn’t the most fun experience in the world. You have to avoid your favorite foods, attend frequent orthodontic appointments, and deal with occasional soreness. Still, though, wearing braces is important.