For teens
Orthodontics for teens
Braces or Invisalign® that fit around school, sports and everything in between — with a plan your teen understands and you can follow.
Is it right for me?
Who it suits.
- Teens with crowding, spacing or bite concerns.
- Families comparing braces and Invisalign for a teen.
- Teens who play sports or instruments and want to know how treatment fits in.
Options
Options
Braces
Metal or clear brackets, adjusted at regular visits.
Invisalign® clear aligners
Removable aligners for teens who will wear them as directed.
How it works
Step by step.
- 1
Consultation
Your teen meets the orthodontist, who explains the options in plain language.
- 2
Plan and fee
You receive the plan and the full fee before you decide.
- 3
Treatment and check-ups
Regular visits, scheduled around school where possible.
When is the right time for a teen to start?
Most teens start orthodontic treatment once their adult teeth have come in, usually between about 11 and 14, but there’s no single right age. Some teens were seen for an early check-up around age 7 and are simply ready now; others come in for the first time at 16 or 17.
At a free consultation, the orthodontist examines your teen’s teeth and bite and explains whether treatment is needed now, later or not at all. You get the options, the expected length of treatment and the full fee in writing before you decide.
Braces or Invisalign® Teen?
Braces are fixed to the teeth, so they work without your teen having to remember anything. Teens can choose metal braces or tooth-colored clear braces, and lingual braces (behind the teeth) are available on request.
Invisalign® Teen aligners are removable and hard to notice. They include compliance indicators that show whether the aligners are being worn enough, and replacement aligners if one is lost. They work best for teens who will wear them about 22 hours a day.
Fitting treatment around school and sports
Most comprehensive treatment takes about 18 to 24 months; your teen’s plan may differ. Visits are short: usually every 6 to 8 weeks for braces and every 8 to 12 weeks for aligners, and we send appointment reminders by text (with your consent).
Teens who play contact sports should wear a mouthguard during treatment. We make or recommend the right mouthguard for braces, and Invisalign aligners come out for games and practice when a sports guard is needed.
With seven offices across Hampton Roads, your teen can come in at whichever office suits the day, near school, home or a parent’s work.
Cost and insurance
Many dental plans include an orthodontic benefit for teens, often with a lifetime maximum and an age limit. We work with most PPO plans, are in network with the TRICARE Dental Program and FEDVIP, and offer monthly payment plans through OrthoFi.
Questions
Answers, in plain language.
Can my teen play sports with braces?
Yes. A mouthguard is recommended for contact sports; your orthodontist can advise on the right type.
Braces or Invisalign for a teen?
Both can work well. Aligners need consistent wear; braces don’t rely on remembering. Your orthodontist will help you decide.
How long will my teen wear braces?
Most comprehensive treatment takes about 18 to 24 months. Your orthodontist gives your teen’s estimate at the consultation.
How often are appointments?
Usually every 6 to 8 weeks for braces and every 8 to 12 weeks for aligners. Visits are short and can be at any of our seven offices.
What if my teen loses an aligner?
Invisalign Teen includes replacement aligners. Call or text us and we’ll tell you what to wear in the meantime.
General information, not a diagnosis. Your orthodontist will recommend treatment after an examination.
