Info for Teens

Info for Teens Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile. Orthodontic treatment improves bad bites, (malocclusions), malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignments, malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.

Your smile affects your self-image and can greatly influence the quality of your interactions with others. Many people hold back from laughing or smiling because they are uncomfortable with their smile.

Orthodontic treatment has the aim of providing you with straight healthy teeth and a warm confident smile. The treatment takes many forms depending on the dental set up. Sometimes a removable brace is indicated. “Train track” braces are very common now with more than 50% of the teenage population needing treatment. Colours can be added to your braces to individualise them. Clear braces are also available to teenagers, as are aligners and lingual braces where discretion is desired.

Why do so many young people seem to have orthodontic treatment?

It is said that “all the statistics in the world can’t measure the warmth of a smile”. Young people today are more conscious than ever of their appearance and how first impressions count. They want their smile to be memorable for all the right reasons!

Appraise your Smile

The following questions are designed to honestly appraise your smile: It is a good exercise to do before attending your orthodontist.

Download Appraise Your Smile PDF

How is treatment carried out?
After doing a full assessment of your treatment needs, Dr Leydon will fit you with a brace while you relax on our massage chair. The brace application is completely pain free, and can take up to an hour to fit depending on the type you need. Once placed we see you every 6 weeks on average for an adjustment. We try to minimise the time you need to take off school but some time off is unavoidable.
Why are appointments so frequent?
We need to see you at regular intervals to keep your teeth moving gently and steadily. We activate the brace regularly at each appointment to keep it working.
Why are appointments in school time?
We try and organise appointments around your schedule as far as possible but some appointments may be neccessary during school hours. For example we like to fit your brace in the morning so that we are here to answer any queries that may arise during the day.
Should I expect to be in pain during treatment?
Having the braces fitted and adjusted is not painful, however for a couple of days after treatment discomfort may be experienced. This varies from person to person and a mild head ache tablet will resolve it. Some parts of the brace can be sharp and if this is the case wax that we provide can be applied.
How long will the treatment go on?
A full course of treatment can take 18-24 months. Some interceptive or preventative treatments are much shorter.
What if the brace breaks?
Breakages usually only occur when hard foods are eaten or traumatic injuries, eg sporting injuries occur. We have set emergency times to accomodate you if you need an extra appointment. There is no additional charge for extra appointments within the first 3 months of treatment.
How does orthodontic treatment affect sport?
Life can go on as normal with braces, but a mouthguard must be worn for contact sports. One will be provided by Dr. Leydon.
How does orthodontic treatment affect playing a musical instrument?
Some musical instruments may be more difficult to play, eg the oboe or flute. Most people adapt very quickly.
Why should malocclusions be treated?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontics, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush or floss which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavourable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile, it creates a healthier you.