Teen orthodontics
Adolescence & orthodontic treatment in Leawood
Adolescence and orthodontic treatment often go hand in hand, partly because by the ages of 11 – 13, most kids have lost their baby teeth, and most of their permanent teeth have grown in. With the permanent teeth mostly in place, your family orthodontist can begin correcting issues that are causing bad bites, improper teeth spacing or alignment. Orthodontic issues become harder to treat with age, so solving these issues while they’re still growing can prevent the need for more invasive treatments in the future.
Jeff Thompson Orthodontics offers braces for teens in Leawood, Kansas. Schedule a free consultation to get started today.
Our orthodontic treatment process
Your teen’s first visit to our office will include taking pictures and radiographic (X-ray) images of their mouth and possibly making a model of their bite. If it’s determined they need orthodontic treatment, we’ll develop a treatment plan that fits your budget and their lifestyle. It may involve braces, with or without rubber bands (elastics) or another specialized orthodontic appliance.
Metal braces
Today’s metal braces are smaller, lighter, more comfortable and more convenient than ever. Your teen can even show off their style with colored elastic ties on their braces.
Clear braces
Clear braces work just like metal braces but are made of ceramic material that blends in with the natural teeth, making them a perfect option for teens looking for a more discreet orthodontic treatment option.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces, also known as invisible braces, are the most discreet form of orthodontic treatment, as they are attached to the back (tongue side) of the teeth, where others cannot see them at all.
Clear aligners
Clear aligners, such as the popular Invisalign® system, are a series of removable, plastic trays that straighten teeth gradually as they’re worn. These practically invisible aligners come with compliance indicators for teens so Dr. Jeff can ensure they’re being worn as directed.
How long do braces take to straighten teeth?
Braces are not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Some orthodontic issues may take longer to treat than others. However, generally, patients are in braces treatment for 1 – 3 years. After the initial treatment is complete, a retainer must be worn to keep the teeth in their new, straight positions to ensure a beautiful, healthy smile for a lifetime.
