Convenient Locations in Salem, Silverton, Stayton, & Woodburn
Our Adolescent Orthodontic Services
As your child gets older, he or she may experience a strong desire to keep up with appearances for school-related activities such as sports, clubs, or dances. Therefore, it is very common for children between the ages of 12 to 19 to receive orthodontic treatment to improve the look of their teeth for a straighter, more dazzling smile. During the adolescent years, all of the primary teeth have fallen out, which makes it an optimal time to shift your teen’s teeth in the correct position for proper jaw alignment. In order to do this, Dr. Johnson offers various high-quality orthodontic services such as:
- Traditional metal braces: Made from a high-grade stainless steel, it is the most common orthodontic treatment for patients of all ages. These traditional braces are known to be a reliable and durable option for straightening teeth.
- Ceramic braces: These braces are similar to their metal counterpart, but it is less noticeable since the brackets are made from a translucent ceramic material that matches the natural color of your teeth.
- Clear aligners: These aligners are becoming the most popular choice for orthodontic treatment because they are practically invisible to others. Also, they are designed to be removable which makes them easier and more comfortable to wear.
How Long is the Treatment?
Depending on which orthodontic service your teen decides to go with, treatment time can vary anytime between 6 to 30 months. Once it is completed, it is important to continue treatment through retention by following Dr. Johnson’s instructions to maintain that brand new smile. Without proper care, your teen may need to repeat the process by having to wear metal braces or clear aligners all over again.
How Much Do Braces Cost for a Teenager?
The average cost for braces for teenagers can range between $3,000 to $5,000. Most dental insurance companies cover an average of $1,000 to $2,000 dollars for teenagers who need braces, but we recommended consulting your insurance provider to determine your eligibility for coverage.
At Bryan Johnson Orthodontics, our team is happy to work with each patient to meet their budget needs by establishing a payment plan if needed. If you have further questions regarding pricing for braces, contact our office by clicking here.
How Does The Process of Getting Braces Work?
Getting braces is a serious commitment for both parents and teens. Sometimes, teens can expect to have their braces on for several years. However, understanding the step-by-step process can help ease dental anxiety in patients. The process of braces happens in the following order:
- Consultation: Initially, each teen, along with their parent, will meet with Dr. Johnson at their first consultation. Here, Dr. Johnson will determine the best treatment plan for your teen’s dental needs, prioritizing their dental history, unique tooth structure, and their comfort level.
- Bonding & Band: The actual procedure of placing braces on your teenager’s teeth can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. During this time, the braces are bonded to each tooth.
- Adjustments: During this stage of the process, your teen’s teeth will shift as weeks pass by. With a follow-up dental appointment each month, the bands will be adjusted, allowing a new shift to take place. This stage is the longest part of the braces process and is where the most tooth shifting happens.
- Debanding: This part of the process involves getting the braces removed. This means your teen has reached the end of their braces process, and their teeth have achieved straight alignment as predicted in their treatment plan.
- Retainer: Even after getting their braces removed, it’s important teens remember to wear their retainer, as Dr. Johnson recommends, to prevent their teeth from moving again.
Contact Your Salem Orthodontist
With 3 convenient orthodontic offices located in Salem, Stayton, & Silverton, our dedicated staff is here to answer any questions about the future of your teen’s oral health. If you are looking to get clear aligners or traditional metal braces, please contact us or walk-in during our hours of operation. Dr. Johnson can offer an ideal treatment option that best satisfies your child’s desire for a perfect and beautiful smile!