Teenagers and Braces

McClellan Orthodontics

At McClellan Orthodontics, we understand and respect the feelings teens have about braces. Our team members can relate to the concerns about how braces can affect appearance, interfere with eating our favorite foods, or restrict the playing of sports or other activities.

One of the best ways to help your teen get used to the idea of braces is to clearly explain the benefits of orthodontic treatment. When teeth are straight, they are easier to clean, which means less risk of developing cavities. Straight teeth also mean the jaw is properly aligned, which minimizes the likelihood of grinding or clenching teeth.

Most teenagers don’t realize that they do have options when it comes to braces. Options include:

Traditional Metal Braces - One of the most common types of braces for teens are metal braces. They hold the teeth together using metal brackets and wires. Our modern metal braces are smaller and less obvious as compared to older braces, but they work exactly the same way.

Clear Ceramic Braces - Clear braces are a popular choice for teens who want to make a less noticeable statement with their commitment to a healthier smile. The natural look of these smooth, sculpted and completely clear ceramic braces are strong and will not stain or discolor. Their comfortable, sculptured design and attractive translucent appearance help provide the self-confidence that comes from wearing braces that look as good as they perform.

Invisalign Teen - Invisalign Teen is the clear way to straighten teeth without metal braces. The aligners are removable and virtually invisible, which means you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing. You simply switch to a new set of aligners every few weeks to shift your teeth into the desired position. You can still eat and drink what you want. Also, you can brush and floss normally to maintain healthy gums and teeth, and there are no wires, metal or brackets to cause mouth abrasions.

Dr. McClellan and Dr. Hedger use the most advanced technologies available to get your teen smiling faster than ever before! The average treatment time at our office is about 18 months but it varies for each patient.

Braces Are Far Easier to Wear Today Than They Once Were

• Today’s braces are much less noticeable than treatment used decades ago. 
• Today’s braces are specially designed to straighten teeth faster. 
• Today’s braces move teeth more gently, but just as effectively. 
• Today’s braces can be personalized using different color brackets and bands.

At McClellan Orthodontics, we believe that everyone deserves a straight smile. Give your teen a smile to last a lifetime...a smile they can be proud of! Visit our website to schedule your teen’s orthodontic appointment today.

The Perfect Age For Braces

McClellan Orthodontics

When we think of braces, most of us think of teenagers. But nowadays, people of all ages are getting braces. So…what is the perfect age to start braces treatment? 

Orthodontists today can successfully correct most problems regardless of the patient’s age. But that doesn’t mean that the orthodontic treatment starting age does not matter. In fact, the starting age may play a significant role in the total time and expenses required for the completion of the orthodontic treatment.

Children: Traditionally, orthodontic treatment begins when a child has lost most of his or her baby teeth, and a majority of the permanent teeth have grown in. That said, it's a good idea to get an orthodontic evaluation by the time a child is 7 years old. You make think that 7 years old is too early to put your child in braces, however, this interceptive approach can help to spot potential orthodontic problems related to jaw growth and eruption of adult teeth before they get out of hand.

Teens: Most orthodontic problems are ideally treated during a child’s teenage years. Usually, all or most permanent teeth are present and patients are at one of their most active phases of growth. This is a great time to correct most problems, as the jaws are actively growing and their growth can be most easily modified during this time.

Adults: Although childhood is a good time to make changes to the mouth and jaw, more and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment for missing or crooked teeth, TMJ, and more. As we grow older, our teeth may shift and it may be necessary for an improved smile through orthodontic treatment. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age, and it is never too late to improve your smile.

The truth is...there’s no specific age at which a child should first visit the orthodontist. The best choice for you and your child will largely depend on the severity of your child's dental problems. A visit to McClellan Orthodontics should happen when you feel it is needed. Often, your family dentist will be the one to recommend the visit, especially if he or she notices problems with your child’s bite or tooth alignment.

If you are considering braces for yourself or your child, give McClellan Orthodontics a call and schedule your initial consultation. Our friendly and knowledgeable team will take the time to address your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you through any treatment process.

 

Give Your Teen Something To Smile About This Summer

McClellan Orthodontics

If you ask any teenager...they’ll most likely tell you that there is never a good time to get braces. At McClellan Orthodontics, we disagree...because  summertime is actually the perfect time to get braces.

Getting braces during the summer allows your teen the time to adjust. It’s no secret that getting braces can be tough on a teenagers self-esteem. Giving them a few months to get used to their braces without being surrounded by their friends at school can make a huge difference in their confidence. 

Summertime is also the best time to break in the braces. Braces can sometimes make talking and eating difficult. Braces can also initially disrupt school sports and extra-curricular activities. The break that summertime provides allows your teenager the time to become accustomed to their braces and tooth alignment before heading back to school.

But the main reason summertime is the perfect time to get braces is because during the summer most teens have far fewer responsibilities than they do during the school year. No homework, no projects and fewer sports commitments makes scheduling adjustment appointments a lot easier. 

At McClellan Orthodontics, we believe that no matter what the reason for seeking orthodontic treatment, everyone deserves a straight smile. Give your teen a smile to last a lifetime...a smile they can be proud of! Visit our website to schedule your teen’s orthodontic appointment today.

McClellan Orthodontics is conveniently located in Kenilworth, IL. We offer orthodontic appointments Monday through Thursday and do our best to accommodate your schedule.