This is the most well-known and common orthodontic period. Indeed, at around 12 years of age, almost all young people have their adult teeth in place. Crowded teeth, spaces, or misaligned teeth are then easily detectable. These problems do not correct themselves spontaneously, and it is therefore the time when the majority of patients decide to undergo orthodontic treatment.
Another advantage is that children grow rapidly during this period.
Why Consult between 12 and 20 Years Old?
The treatment benefits from the pre-puberty growth spurt of your child, especially if there is a jaw misalignment. Additionally, young people have a high metabolism at this age, which favors a shorter and more comfortable treatment.
In a study published in the American Journal of Orthodontics, children who received orthodontic treatment showed:
- being happier
- being less anxious
- having more self-esteem and self-confidence
- focusing more easily on their studies
Giving your children self-confidence is something they will carry with them throughout their lives. A high level of self-confidence is directly correlated with better grades, better social relationships, and a good career.
American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics Volume 135, Issue 5, Pages 580-585, May 2009
Adolescents
Types of Treatment
Adolescent treatment is thus often reduced: duration of 6 to 24 months depending on the severity of the malocclusion. It is also less invasive (fewer tooth extractions, fewer surgeries, etc.). Depending on the diagnosis, the treatment will be more or less rapid.
Invisible treatments are also offered to adolescents: aligners (like Invisalign®, Spark) or lingual braces (bonded to the inner, non-visible surface of the teeth). Aligners are very practical as they give our teenagers more freedom! For example, they have the freedom to eat whatever they want without risking detaching a bracket.
Check out our videos for recommendations on proper orthodontic treatment follow-up.
In our Practice, Seeing Children Early is a Strength.
Indeed, major problems are managed in phase I “interceptive”. Thus, when we see the young adolescent again around 11 years old, phase II “corrective” will be simplified, faster, and more conservative. The future stability of the treatment will be greater, as the causes of the malocclusion will have been treated in phase I.
INSIGHTS
Content for Teens
