Invest In Their Future
Between the ages of 12 and 16 is the most common time for orthodontic treatment for teenagers around Hinsdale because this is when most permanent teeth begin to settle into place.
Hinsdale Teen Orthodontics
Not only are the teenage years a great time for orthodontic treatment from a tooth-movement perspective, but teens around this age are well-prepared to understand their treatment responsibilities and put in the time to care for their oral health.
Started once the majority of adult teeth have emerged around age 12, comprehensive braces or Invisalign treatment will have your child beaming with confidence in time for their senior photos, sweet sixteen, quinceañera, or whatever big day awaits!
Some teens at Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry may have even started their journey with Phase I treatment, or treatment that begins before their permanent teeth have erupted, and are now following it up with full braces or other orthodontic treatment.
Whether they're on Phase I or Phase II treatment, new orthodontic solutions and technologies make the treatment process at Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry much easier than ever before.
Experienced orthodontists like Dr. Riccio and Dr. Blair will be able to easily recognize issues with spacing, crowding, bite, and alignment in this age range, and your teen's bone and jaw structure are formed enough to respond well to orthodontic treatment.
Signs Your Teen May Need Treatment
Appearance and self-confidence aside, untreated dental problems can have a lasting impact on your teen's oral and overall health.
If you notice any of the following issues, we recommend a free consultation with Dr. Riccio and Dr. Blair at Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, since they could be signs your teen may benefit from orthodontic treatment.
- Early, late, or irregular loss of their baby teeth
- Difficulty with chewing or biting
- Crowding or extra spacing between teeth
- Jaws that shift or make sounds
- Frequent biting of the cheek or the inside of the mouth
- Teeth that meet abnormally or not at all
- Jaws and teeth that are out of proportion to the rest of the face
- Protruding or irregularly-angled teeth
Bite Problems
Diagnosing and successfully treating certain bite problems can have short-term and long-term benefits.
Problems classified as "bad bites" can often be minimized with the proper orthodontic treatment at Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, and may include:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Missing or extra teeth
- An overbite or underbite
- Incorrect jaw position
- A disorder of the jaw joint
Benefits of Braces & Clear Aligners
Orthodontic treatment at Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry may have many benefits to your teeth, gums, and oral health, including:
- Preventing wear and tear, chipping, and tooth trauma
- Becoming easier to keep mouth and teeth clean, helping to prevent tooth decay and cavities
- Reducing the chances of developing gum disease, which can result in bone loss, decay, and tooth loss
- Improving proper chewing and digestion of food
The Treatment Process at Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry
While creating a customized treatment plan for your teen, we might recommend an orthodontic appliance. Here at Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we offer:
Damon Metal Braces
Braces have come a very long way, and are improving every day. When many people think of braces, they think of extremely bulky and uncomfortable metal brackets.
Today's braces are lighter and more comfortable than ever before, especially the Damon braces we offer at Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry. They use low-profile NiTi brackets and wires to gently shift your teeth into more optimal positions over time.
Damon Clear Ceramic Braces
Also known as ceramic braces, Damon clear braces work the same way metal braces do but feature brackets made of tooth-colored ceramic materials. They blend in with your teen's smile, making them much less obvious.
Since ceramic braces are slightly more prone to breakage, and a little costlier than metal braces, they may not be suitable for everyone.
Invisalign® or Spark Aligners
A clear system is made up of a series of fully customized, clear trays called aligners. These aligners are nearly invisible and totally removable.
Made of soft plastic, they provide a more comfortable orthodontic experience, with no friction or abrasions inside your teen's mouth.
Each week your teen will switch their aligner for the next in the set. When worn the recommended 20-22 hours per day, your teen's teeth will gradually move into the desired positions.
Clear aligners work best for mild to moderate orthodontic issues, and may not be recommended if your teen needs more serious treatment.
Questions About Teen Orthodontics in Hinsdale
An Investment in Your Teen's Smile
Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your child's future. Dr. Riccio and Dr. Blair will be happy to discuss the benefits of treatment with both of you at your teen's free consultation, as well as any of the benefits or risks of delaying treatment.
Although adults can successfully complete orthodontic treatment at Hinsdale Ortho, a teen's jaws and teeth tend to respond quicker to orthodontic treatment, thereby shortening their total treatment time and allowing them more time to show off their new smile!