Orthodontic Treatment For Teens

Creating Confident, Lifelong Smiles For Teens

Navigating the teenage years is challenging enough! That’s why we at Horton Orthodontics believe in simplifying the journey for orthodontic treatment for teens, leaving more room for life’s little joys. Our mission is clear: to tailor orthodontic care specifically to your teen’s needs. We also work on complicated cases and specialize in treating impacted canines in teens. Our goal is to ensure that your teen can confidently flash their smile amidst the chaos of adolescence. In a world where everything feels complicated, getting their new smile shouldn’t be one of them.

Teen orthodontic treatment
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Does My Teen Need Orthodontic Treatment?

While not every teenager requires orthodontic treatment, adolescence is often an ideal time to get started. That’s because not only can orthodontic treatment straighten your teen’s teeth to improve aesthetics, but it can also reduce the risk of dental issues like cavities and gum disease. Straighter teeth are also easier to clean. Here are some other reasons it may be beneficial for your teen:

  • Improper Bite: If your teen has difficulty chewing, speaking or even breathing, it may be a sign of a malocclusions. This can include issues such as overbites, underbites, crossbites and overcrowding. Orthodontic treatment works to correct these issues to improve overall oral function and comfort.

  • Jaw Development: This is also a good time to make sure your teen’s jaw growth is developing as it should. With the help of metal braces or custom clear braces, we can help guide proper jaw growth and alignment, which can prevent more severe problems from developing later in life.

  • Preventative Care: In some cases, orthodontic treatment in the teenage years can help stop more challenges down the road. Teen orthodontic treatment can often lead to shorter treatment times and more predictable outcomes.

Teen Orthodontic Treatment In Woodbury, MN

Ensuring your teen’s comfort is our topmost concern, particularly when it involves selecting the ideal orthodontic treatment tailored to their lifestyle. At Horton Orthodontics, we proudly offer three treatment options for our teenages: metal braces, custom clear braces and Invisalign® or custom clear aligners.

Why The Teenage Years Are Perfect For Treatment

The teenage years are certainly the perfect time to start orthodontic treatment—but why? There are several main reasons why teens are the quintessential orthodontic patient. These include:

On average, your teen’s jaws won’t stop growing until they are about 16-21 years old. That means that the bone is softer and the teeth are easier to move. For this reason, teen treatment time is often shorter, as they will respond better to treatment than adults.

By age 12 or 13, your teen will have developed all of their permanent teeth. This makes it the ideal time to start treatment.

Many other teens will also be going through treatment, which means your teen will not be alone! Undergoing treatment at the same time as their friends and classmates will help them feel more comfortable and more confident. This also means that they can finish treatment before even bigger life events, such as prom and high school graduation.

Starting treatment now means better oral health for the future. Tackling orthodontic issues earlier means they can care for their teeth more easily and even prevent cavities or gum disease.

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Metal Braces

Having braces is no longer a hassle. Utilizing cutting-edge dental technology, our metal braces treatment surpasses previous standards. Each phase is tailored for comfort and customized to suit your teen’s specific case. Our metal braces consist of metal brackets that are bonded to the teeth and connected by wires and rubber bands. The wires are periodically adjusted by Dr. Horton to gradually move the teeth into the desired positions over time. In comparison, our custom clear braces are developed using 3D printing and innovative technology for a more precise fit.

Custom Clear Braces

Our custom clear braces use the latest innovative technology to bring a next-level comfort and effectiveness compared to traditional braces. The clear, ceramic materials are 3D printed and blend in with your natural tooth so that the brackets are less noticeable. With custom clear braces, treatment time is also shorter than treatment with metal braces.

Invisalign® And Custom Clear Aligners

If your teen is looking for a nearly invisible treatment option, we also offer Invisalign® and custom clear aligners. This treatment uses a series of clear aligners, also called trays, to move your teen’s teeth into their proper positions. They are smooth and wire-free for comfort, and they are even removable for eating, drinking anything but water and even taking pictures.

Schedule Your Teen’s Consultation Today

Your teen’s adventure to a brighter, healthier smile awaits! The teenage years, when the jaw bone is still developing and receptive to change, is the perfect time to get started. Call us at (651) 738-9060 or schedule your complimentary consultation for your teen at Horton Orthodontics today. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Dr. Horton looking at orthodontic technology
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Locally Owned and Smiles That Are Locally Grown

Individualized Orthodontic Care In Woodbury, Minnesota

Dr. Horton is a board certified orthodontist with years of experience and expertise in her field. She is proud to provide a locally owned and operated practice that offers a welcoming environment and cutting-edge orthodontic technology for all patients. Get started with the smile of your dreams today!