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If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time for your teen to start orthodontic treatment, you’re not alone. Maybe you’ve started noticing some crowding. Maybe their dentist mentioned a referral. Or maybe they have been asking about Invisalign because their friends are getting it.
Dr. Juan sees this all the time at Seabreeze Orthodontics. Parents want to make the right call, but it’s hard to know what that looks like when every kid’s situation is different. It’s helpful to have a clear picture of what to expect, what your options are, and how to help your teen get the best result possible, without turning it into a huge ordeal. Our team is committed to this in our Myrtle Beach office.
Timing Isn’t Everything, But It Does Matter
Most teens start orthodontic treatment somewhere between the ages of 11 and 15. That’s usually when the last baby teeth have fallen out and the adult teeth have taken their place. It’s also when you can see how things are lining up, or not.
If their bite is off or the crowding looks severe, we may recommend starting a little earlier. In general, this is a good window to begin. You don’t have to rush into anything. You just need to catch issues at the right time while their mouth is still developing.
So, what is the best way to find out if your teen’s ready? Come in for a consultation. Dr. Juan will take a close look and let you know exactly what’s going on.
Metal Braces or Invisalign Are The Two Solid Options
Both choices can work well. What matters is which one fits your teen’s lifestyle and how likely they are to follow through.
Metal Braces
These are the classic brackets and wires. They are the most common, and it’s because they are reliable and work well for all types of cases. They are smaller, cleaner, and more comfortable than what most parents remember.
Invisalign
These are clear aligners that slide over the teeth and get swapped out every week or two. They’re discreet and easy to remove, which teens tend to like. The idea is responsibility. If they’re not wearing them at least 20 hours a day, it won’t work.
Neither one is “better” across the board. It depends on the case and the kid. Dr. Juan will walk through both options with you and help figure out what makes the most sense.
What to Expect Along the Way
Orthodontic treatment is a commitment, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s a quick overview of what the process looks like and how you can help your teen adjust.
Starting Off
No putty trays or uncomfortable molds here. We use digital scanners to get a clear picture of your teen’s teeth. From there, we build a treatment plan that’s tailored to their bite.
Appointments
With braces, your teen will come in for regular adjustments. If they go with Invisalign, we will set them up with trays and check in about every 8–10 weeks to track progress.
Soreness
Most teens feel a little pressure after an adjustment or a new set of aligners, but it usually fades within a day or two. Soft foods and some patience go a long way.
Food Rules
Braces come with some limits, like sticky candy, popcorn, and anything too crunchy. Invisalign doesn’t, but they will need to take the trays out before eating and clean them before putting them back in.
Oral Care
Brushing and flossing matter more than ever during treatment. Braces can trap food easily. Aligners need to stay clean or they’ll start to smell and stain. This is one of the biggest things you can help them stay consistent with.
Questions Parents Ask Us All the Time
Here is what usually comes up during that first appointment at Seabreeze Orthodontics:
How long will treatment take?
Most teens finish treatment in 18 to 24 months. Some need less time, some need more; it depends on how complex the case is and how consistent your teen is with their care.
Does insurance cover this?
Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost for dependents under 18. Our office will walk you through your coverage so you know exactly what to expect before you commit to anything.
What happens when the braces or Invisalign are done?
That’s where retainers come in. They hold the teeth in place while the bone stabilizes around them. We’ll go over all your options for retainers and make sure your teen is set up for the long run.
What You Can Do to Support the Process
It’s not all on them. The more support they get at home, the smoother this will go.
- Encourage them to keep up with cleaning. A quick check-in now and then helps.
- Help them build habits. Invisalign trays go missing fast if they’re not careful.
- Stay positive. Some weeks are easier than others, especially after adjustments.
- Remind them why they’re doing this. Even if they don’t see changes right away, progress is happening.
You don’t have to be strict, but being involved does make a difference. Most teens do better when they know you’re paying attention.
Straight Teeth Are Just One Part of It
Orthodontic treatment isn’t only about how a smile looks. A properly aligned bite makes brushing easier, keeps the jaw healthy, and reduces the risk of chipped teeth or uneven wear later on.
Dr. Juan doesn’t treat every case the same way. He looks at how your teen’s bite works, how their jaw is growing, and how we can set them up for long-term stability, not just a short-term result.
When You’re Ready, We’re Here
You don’t need to have everything figured out before you make an appointment. That’s what the consultation is for. Whether your teen is ready to start now or still has a little growing to do, Dr. Juan at Seabreeze Orthodontics will give you honest feedback and a clear plan.
If you’re in the Myrtle Beach area and thinking about braces or Invisalign for your teen, we would be happy to take a look. Call Seabreeze Orthodontics to schedule a visit with Dr. Juan and find out what’s next.