At Total Orthodontics, we help teens smile confidently with customized orthodontic treatment designed for comfort, speed, and lasting results. The teen years are the most common and effective time to begin orthodontic care, giving our doctors the perfect window to guide your child’s developing smile.
Our board-certified orthodontists, Dr. Barefoot, Dr. Theroux, and Dr. Donahue, proudly serve Greenwood Village, Lone Tree, and nearby communities like Centennial, Englewood, and Highlands Ranch, CO. We’re known for combining advanced technology, compassionate care, and a fun, motivating environment that helps every teen feel confident from their first visit to their final smile.
When Is the Best Time for Braces?
Between the ages of 11 and 15, most teens have all their permanent teeth, making it the ideal time for orthodontic evaluation and treatment. At this age, crooked teeth, crowding, or bite problems can easily be corrected before they become more complicated.
Many teens also find comfort knowing that their peers are in treatment too, making braces feel like a shared experience rather than something to hide. With growing bones and faster metabolism, orthodontic movement happens more efficiently, often resulting in shorter treatment times and less discomfort.
Personalized Orthodontic Care for Every Teen
At Total Orthodontics, we never rush or over-treat. More than 90% of our patients complete orthodontic treatment in one single phase, typically finishing before high school begins. Our doctors use the latest orthodontic technology to design precise, efficient treatment plans that fit each teen’s lifestyle.
Whether your teen prefers metal braces, clear ceramic options, or Invisalign® aligners, we focus on making treatment effective, convenient, and fun.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment for Teens
Orthodontic treatment during the teen years offers lifelong benefits, including:
Improved bite function and jaw alignment
Easier brushing and flossing for better oral hygiene
Boosted self-confidence during key social years
Prevention of uneven wear and long-term dental issues
Straighter, healthier smiles that last a lifetime
Starting treatment at the right time sets your teen up for confidence and health well into adulthood.
Treatment Options for Teen Orthodontics
Every teen’s smile is unique, so we offer multiple options to meet individual needs:
Metal Braces
Ceramic Aligners
Invisalign® Teen
Damon Self-Ligating Braces
What to Expect During Treatment
Your teen’s orthodontic journey begins with a complimentary consultation, where our doctors will:
Review your teen’s growth and dental development.
Identify potential alignment or bite concerns.
Recommend the best treatment approach.
Outline the expected timeline and investment.
We schedule check-ups every 6 to 8 weeks to monitor progress and make any needed adjustments. Our team also communicates with your family dentist to keep your teen’s overall oral health on track.
FAQ
Can Sports or Musical Instrument Activity Continue During Treatment?
Yes. Teens can continue playing sports and musical instruments with braces or aligners. For contact sports, we provide custom mouthguards to protect teeth and appliances. Musicians may need a short adjustment period, but most return to playing comfortably within days.
Will Orthodontic Treatment Impact My Teen’s Daily Routine, Including Eating and Oral Hygiene?
There may be minor adjustments at first, but most teens quickly adapt. Braces require avoiding sticky or hard foods, while aligners should be removed during meals. We teach every patient the best way to brush and floss to keep their teeth clean throughout treatment.
Are There Lifestyle Restrictions (Food, Habits) My Teen Should Expect During Treatment?
With braces, it’s best to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage wires or brackets. Aligners offer more flexibility but should be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day for best results. We’ll provide a full list of tips to make care easy and stress-free.
Can My Teen Switch From Braces to Clear Aligners (or Vice Versa) During Treatment?
Yes, in some cases. Depending on progress and goals, our doctors may transition a patient from braces to aligners or vice versa. We’ll discuss your teen’s best options to ensure their treatment stays efficient and effective.
What Happens If My Teen Breaks a Bracket or Loses an Aligner?
If a bracket breaks or an aligner is lost, contact our office right away. We’ll schedule a quick visit to repair or replace it. Delaying fixes can affect progress, so it’s best to address the issue promptly.
