Braces For Teens: What To Expect

At Leiss & Hendrix Orthodontics, we offer compassionate and comprehensive care and possess a conservative view of orthodontic treatment. We place value on proactive care and early treatment when necessary in order to ensure your teen has a healthy smile and a confident start in life! Our team of professional and friendly staff is ready to welcome you to one of our conveniently located offices.

The first step in braces treatment for our patients is usually a consultation with one of our orthodontists, during which they will assess your teeth and determine whether braces are the best option for you. If so, they will discuss the different types of braces available and help you choose the right option for your needs. Treatment typically involves two phases: the active phase, during which the braces are worn, and the retention phase, during which a retainer is worn to prevent the teeth from shifting back into their original position. Throughout treatment, regular appointments will be necessary to adjust the braces and ensure that they are working effectively.

Most people who wear braces will need to wear them for about one to two years, though treatment length will vary depending on the individual. By following your orthodontist’s instructions and attending all of your appointments, you can achieve excellent results from your braces treatment.

How Braces Affect The Teen Lifestyle

When you have braces, they take some getting used to when wearing them, but overall only minor changes have to take place in order to get the smile you are longing for! Here are a few lifestyle changes you need to make to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy.

Playing Sports

If you play contact sports, you don’t have to worry about stopping your beloved activity due to your new appliance! However, if you participate in any physical activity that could cause damage or trauma to your face or mouth, you might have to take extra precautions and wear a mouth guard. These can be found at most sporting goods stores and are a great way to provide cushion and protection in the event of a bump to the face or mouth while enjoying the physical activities you love.

Sleeping

As a teen, we know you love your sleep. At first, it can be slightly uncomfortable for stomach sleepers when you get new braces. To be more comfortable when you sleep, use extra pillows to prop up your head, and avoid sleeping on your stomach so that you don’t put pressure on your face or neck. Making these lifestyle changes are minor things you can do to make your braces journey smooth. In the end, they’ll help you keep your smile looking its best.

Properly Caring For Your Braces

Wearing braces changes a few things about how you care for your smile, and there are a few small ways to change up your routine in order to best care for your new braces.

  • Cleaning – You’ll want to be extra careful when cleaning your teeth. You’ll need to use a special flosser and also be sure to brush for longer than you did before getting your braces. Because of the new appliance, you most likely will have to get the food out of your teeth after every meal to keep them clean. It may take a little longer, but it will ensure a clean and well-taken care of smile.
  • Eating – You also need to be careful about what you eat. Avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage your braces, and cut up fruits and vegetables so that they’re easy to chew. When you eat the right foods, you can cut down on the risks of damage to your braces that could possibly delay treatment or cause emergency trips to get part of your braces replaced or repaired.

Benefits Of Braces For Teens

While braces may not be the most comfortable thing in the world, they’re usually only worn for a year or two. And once they’re removed, you’re left with straight teeth that can boost your confidence and self-esteem. In addition, braces can also improve your oral health by correcting alignment issues that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. So, if you’re considering braces for yourself or your teenager, don’t let the cost or the inconvenience deter you. The benefits are well worth the small impacts on daily life!