Are you interested in braces for teens in Midlothian, VA? If so, you can get professional help by scheduling a complimentary consultation at LifeSmile Orthodontics. We provide a variety of options to straighten teeth and help teens achieve a smile that brings confidence.
Benefits of Getting Braces as a Teen
Teens and adults can both benefit from wearing braces in many cases. These orthodontic appliances gently pull your teeth into proper alignment, giving you a straighter smile and more confidence about your appearance.
However, braces provide more than just aesthetic benefits. When you have straight teeth, it’s often easier for you to floss and keep your teeth clean. If your teen cleans their teeth, it reduces the likelihood of them developing cavities or gingivitis (gum disease).
In some cases, you may have issues that make it challenging to chew or speak clearly. Braces can help correct many of these issues, as well, improving your overall health and wellbeing.
Options for Braces for Teens
Teens in Midlothian have several options to choose from when selecting the type of braces to wear. Our office offers the following types of braces.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to adjust the position of a patient’s teeth slowly. Rubber bands exert pressure on the metal fixtures, gradually pulling them into place, and Dr. Mawaldi will adjust the braces to bring teeth into the proper position.
Ceramic Braces
If your teen wants to wear braces but would like a less noticeable option may choose to go with ceramic braces. These braces replace metal brackets with tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend into a patient’s teeth, making them far less noticeable.
However, metal braces are sturdier than ceramic options. Ceramic braces require more careful treatment, making them a more popular choice among older teens and adults.
How Long Teens Wear Braces in Midlothian
Treatment times vary for teens who wear braces. The initial positioning of a patient’s teeth often determines how long braces are required.
However, teens typically wear braces for around six to 30 months. Our team at LifeSmile Orthodontics can perform an initial assessment to provide you with a more accurate estimate regarding how long your teen will need to wear braces.
Steps to Care for Braces as a Teen
Properly caring for braces allows them to work more effectively. Generally, caring for these orthodontic appliances requires teens to:
- Brush
- Floss
- Visit Dr. Mawaldi regularly
Oral healthcare professionals also recommend that teens avoid certain foods while wearing braces. Sticky and hard foods can damage braces, even pulling wires loose in some situations. Therefore, patients should avoid eating these foods as much as possible.
It’s also essential to use proper safety precautions if a teen plays sports while wearing braces. For example, wearing an appropriate mouthguard can prevent a patient from sustaining an injury while engaging in athletic activities.
Our team can provide you with more information about braces, mouthguards, and treatment options for teens who want orthodontic treatment.
