Does my teen need orthodontics?

For many teens, orthodontic treatment can address a wide range of dental issues including:

● Deep, open, cross, or under bite
● Over-retained baby teeth
● Crowded, protruded or spaced teeth
● Delayed tooth eruption
● Difficulty biting, chewing or speaking
● Jaw misalignment

During your teen’s appointment, we will examine your teen’s teeth and bite, take photos, a panoramic X-ray to check for hidden, missing or extra teeth, as well as complete an iTero imaging of your child’s teeth and bite so that we can show you what their teeth will look like when straight! There are a number of different treatment options available for your teeth including invisalign clear aligners or braces. We will discuss options with you and your teen during your visit.

What types of braces are available for my teen?

TLC for Smiles offers several options, including traditional braces, clear braces, and Invisalign for Teens.

Traditional braces:

Traditional braces use standard metal brackets and wires to align teeth and correct other dental issues. Wires are held into the braces with colorful ties. Your teen can choose from a variety of colors that can be changed at each appointment to match a favorite outfit, sports team, or to show off your teen’s individual style. Successful treatment requires patients to avoid biting into food and to avoid eating many foods such as nuts, chips and meat on the bone. Additionally, patients must learn to brush around the braces and under the wires and patients must use floss threaders to get to floss between teeth. Also, patients with braces should visit the dental office about every 6 weeks for orthodontic adjustments.
Ceramic braces:

Ceramic braces are made of a translucent material that is perfect for those looking for the precision of traditional braces without the look of metal or color in their mouth.
Invisalign for Teens:

TLC for Smiles is in the top 1% of the nation as providers of Invisalign clear aligners. Invisalign features transparent aligners that work as effectively as braces in almost all situations. Unlike traditional braces, however, Invisalign aligners are made of a durable, comfortable plastic material and are removable. Removing the aligners allows teens to enjoy all their favorite foods without restriction and also makes aligners easy to clean and care for. Invisalign patients typically visit the office every 12-20 weeks instead of every 6 weeks as with braces.

If your teen has crooked teeth, spaces between teeth, misaligned teeth or jaw, there are a number of orthodontic treatment options available to help your teen achieve the beautiful, healthy smile they deserve. Contact our office today to schedule your initial consultation to see which orthodontic option is right for your teen. Our Chatsworth location features private rooms for each patient and can be reached at (818) 739-0182. Our Granada Hills location features an open bay area that many parents with more than one child prefer. This way the parent may sit with more than one child at the same time. Our Granada Hills office can be reached at (818) 360-2131.