Adolescent Treatment
Children's Orthodontic Treatment in North Potomac, Gaithersburg, Kentlands and Lakelands, MD
At the office of Dr. Christine Chen and Dr. Charles Harrington, we pride ourselves on being able to provide high quality, comprehensive pediatric dentistry and orthodontic treatment to the communities in North Potomac, Gaithersburg, Kentlands/Lakelands, Rockville and the surrounding communities. Our team understands that for many teens, braces are a rite of passage: But is there any particular reason why orthodontic appliances and teenagers seem to go together? In a word: Yes.
Orthodontic problems don't improve with age — they simply become harder to treat. It's easier to treat many orthodontic problems during adolescence because the body is still growing rapidly at this time. There's no set timetable for every kid, but generally by the age of 11-13 the deciduous (baby) teeth have all been lost, and the permanent ones have largely come in. This is the time when we can go to work correcting the problems that cause a bad bite (malocclusion), improper tooth spacing or poor alignment.
Whether we use standard braces, Invisalign, or appliances like palatal expanders, we can create an improved appearance and function in a short period of time. In later years, when the bones of the face and jaw are fully developed, many conditions become more difficult (and costly) to treat.
There's even a social element to getting orthodontic treatment in adolescence. If you need braces, you're not alone! Chances are you'll see some of your classmates in our office, and you may even make new friends as you go through the process together. When it's done, you'll have a smile that you can really be proud of, and benefits that will last your whole life.
Braces & Invisalign in North Potomac, Gaithersburg, Kentlands and Lakelands
What can you expect when you come in to our office for treatment? It all depends on what kind of treatment you need. The first time you come in, we will take pictures, digital radiographic (X-ray) images of your mouth, and digital models of your bite. Then, we'll develop a treatment plan. It may involve regular braces or Invisalign with or without elastics (rubber bands). We might also recommend that you use a specialized appliance for a period of time. Here are some of the most commonly used orthodontic appliances:
Metal braces: Metal Braces need no introduction. But you might be surprised to find they're smaller and lighter than ever. They may even offer some customized options, like colored elastic ties on the brackets.
Clear braces: Clear Braces feature brackets made of ceramic or composite materials which blend in with your teeth, making them harder to notice. They're suitable in many situations, but they cost a little more.
Clear aligners: Clear Aligners for teens and adults are a series of removable, clear plastic trays changed weekly that gradually straighten teeth as they're worn (for 22 hours per day). The advantage: they're practically invisible!
Other orthodontic appliances may be recommended in some cases, where major tooth or jaw movement is needed. They can range from small devices that fit inside the mouth to external headgear. But don't worry: You'll get used to them, and they're temporary — but they provide a long-term benefit in a short time.
How Long Will I Be Wearing Braces?
There's no one answer that fits everyone: It all depends on what we need to do in your individual situation. Generally, however, the active stage of orthodontic treatment lasts 6-30 months. Afterward, you will wear a retainer for another period of months. When your orthodontic treatment is complete, the new smile we've worked together to create will be yours for a lifetime.
Schedule a Consultation with Your North Potomac Orthodontist
If you think that it may be time for your child to schedule their first orthodontic appointment, there's never been a better time to get started! Give us a call at 301-977-1441, or fill out an appointment request form. We can't wait to hear from you!
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