Orthodontics for Teens
Professional Orthodontics for Teens
A confident smile can make all the difference during the teenage years — and orthodontics for teens helps make that possible.
At Peterson Family Orthodontics, Dr. Scott Peterson and our team make teen orthodontic treatment comfortable, personalized, and effective. Whether your teenager needs braces or Invisalign®, we focus on helping them achieve a smile they’ll feel proud of with minimal disruption to school, sports, and social life.
Signs Your Teen May Need Braces or Invisalign®
Crowded or overlapping teeth
Gaps or spacing between teeth
Difficulty biting or chewing
Noticeable overbite or underbite
Jaw clicking or discomfort
Shifting or crooked teeth after losing baby teeth
Why Teens Benefit From Orthodontics
By the early teen years, most permanent teeth have come in, and the jaw is still developing — making this the ideal time to correct bite and alignment issues.
Orthodontic treatment during this stage can:
- Improve confidence and self-esteem
- Correct crowding, spacing, or crooked teeth
- Fix bite problems (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite)
- Prevent uneven wear or jaw discomfort
- Set the stage for long-term oral health
Braces vs. Invisalign® for Teens
Every teen’s lifestyle and goals are different, and we offer orthodontic options to match:
Metal Braces
Traditional braces are durable, reliable, and great for complex cases. Today’s metal braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever.
Clear (Ceramic) Braces
Clear braces blend in with teeth for a more subtle look while offering the same precise results.
Invisalign®
Aligners are removable, comfortable, and nearly invisible. Perfect for responsible teens who prefer a no-brackets option.
Dr. Peterson will help determine the best braces or aligner treatment for your teen’s needs, preferences, and daily routine.
How Long Does Teen Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Most teens wear braces or aligners for 12–24 months, depending on the complexity of their case. With good hygiene, consistent wear, and regular check-ins, treatment can often finish faster.
Life With Braces or Aligners
We know teens are busy. Between sports, school, and activities, orthodontic care has to fit in easily. Here’s what to expect:
- Sports: Teens can safely play sports with a mouthguard.
- Instruments: Braces and aligners don’t stop music practice; it just takes a little adjustment.
- Food: Braces mean skipping sticky or hard foods. Aligners can be removed at mealtime.
- Confidence: Clear aligners and ceramic braces make smiling through treatment easy.
After Braces: The Retainer Stage
Once your teen’s orthodontic treatment is done, wearing a retainer is key to keeping that perfect smile in place. Retainers prevent teeth from shifting and protect the investment your teen made in their smile. Dr. Peterson will recommend the best type of retainer and schedule follow-up visits to ensure long-lasting results.
Why Start Orthodontics for Teens Now?
Starting orthodontic treatment during the teen years makes correction faster and more predictable because:
- The jaw and bite are still adaptable
- Teeth move more efficiently
- Results tend to be more stable long term
Waiting until adulthood often means longer treatment times and more complex adjustments, increasing the cost in the long run.
Orthodontics for Teens Is Important
Every teen deserves to feel good about their smile, and orthodontic care is one of the best ways to build that confidence.
Whether you’re looking for aligners or teen braces near San Tan Valley, Queen Creek, Gilbert, Chandler, Florence, or Mesa, AZ, or surrounding areas, Dr. Peterson and our friendly team at Peterson Family Orthodontics are here to guide you every step of the way.