Woman smiling while about to put her clear aligner in her mouth that straightens teeth similar to Invisalign in Los Angeles

Achieve Your Teen’s Ideal Smile with Invisalign or Customized Braces

The decision to move forward with braces depends on various factors, such as the severity of the orthodontic issue and its root causes. At Shoreline Orthodontics, our skilled team will guide you through the process, providing personalized recommendations based on your child’s unique needs.

Orthodontics for Teens at Shoreline Orthodontics

Braces for Teens

Hearing the words “YOU NEED BRACES!” can be daunting for any teenager, often conjuring images of traditional metal braces. However, there’s no need for concern! Today’s braces are significantly more advanced and comfortable than in the past. With a variety of materials and colors to choose from, modern braces are designed to be both effective and visually appealing, accommodating each teen’s unique style.

At Shoreline Orthodontics, we offer advanced Invisalign clear aligners crafted from top-notch SmartTrack material, providing enhanced comfort and a nearly undetectable look. Each aligner comes with a compliance indicator to monitor wear time, helping to keep the treatment on track. Designed for 22 hours of use each day, these aligners are removable, making it simple for your teen to eat and uphold their oral hygiene without disrupting their everyday activities.

Woman smiling while about to put her clear aligner in her mouth that straightens teeth similar to Invisalign in Los Angeles
Woman smiling while about to put her clear aligner in her mouth that straightens teeth similar to Invisalign in Los Angeles

What Is the Expected Duration of My Braces or Invisalign Treatment?

The duration of your orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign can differ based on several key factors:

Timing of Treatment: Beginning orthodontic treatment at an early age can be beneficial, as it enables us to observe your child’s jaw development and assess whether further treatment may be needed later on. Although early intervention can provide advantages, it is sometimes preferable to wait until the child’s primary teeth have been replaced by their permanent ones before initiating treatment.

Type of Correction Needed: The particular orthodontic problems being treated significantly influence the duration of the treatment. Treatment times can vary greatly—some patients may reach their desired outcomes in as few as 12 months, while others might take up to 24 months. The overall length of treatment is determined by individual factors, including how well your teeth respond to the appliances and the complexity of the adjustments required.

Adherence to Treatment: The pace of your progress also depends on how closely you adhere to your orthodontist’s instructions. Taking good care of your braces or aligners and following the suggested treatment plan can accelerate your path to achieving a beautiful smile.

Are Braces or Invisalign Uncomfortable?

The experience of having to wear braces or Invisalign can differ greatly among teens, so there’s no universal answer. However, your teen’s orthodontist focuses on reducing any discomfort to the greatest extent possible. Most patients describe their experience as mild “discomfort” rather than severe pain, with many teens noting that they feel little to no discomfort at all!

If your teen experiences any pain, it’s essential to notify the orthodontist. They can make the needed adjustments to the braces or recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever. Your orthodontist is dedicated to making sure your child’s treatment is as comfortable as possible and is eager to resolve any issues quickly.

Woman smiling while about to put her clear aligner in her mouth that straightens teeth similar to Invisalign in Los Angeles