Teen Braces
Confident Smiles for Your Teen Years
The teen years are the ideal time to address orthodontic concerns, as the teeth and jaw are still developing. At Wright & Feusier Orthodontics, we specialize in creating smiles that teens love—offering a range of modern braces options tailored to their lifestyle and needs. Whether your teen needs to correct crowding, misalignment, or bite issues, we’re here to ensure their journey to a perfect smile is positive, comfortable, and even fun!
“Braces during the teen years are about more than straight teeth—they’re about building confidence at a pivotal stage of life,” says Dr. Chad Wright.
Why Choose Braces for Teens?
Braces remain one of the most effective orthodontic solutions, especially during adolescence. Here’s why:
Correcting Misalignments: Braces can address a wide range of issues, including overcrowding, crooked teeth, and bite problems like overbites or underbites.
Boosting Confidence: A straight, healthy smile improves self-esteem, which is vital during the teen years.
Durable and Customizable: Today’s braces are stronger, sleeker, and more comfortable than ever. Teens can even personalize their look with colorful bands or opt for low-visibility options like ceramic brackets.
Why Braces Are a Great Choice for Teens
While clear aligners like 3M Clarity Aligners are popular, braces often remain the best option for teens for several reasons:
They’re Always Working: Unlike aligners, braces are fixed in place, so there’s no temptation to remove them or risk losing them.
Effective for Complex Cases: Braces can handle more severe orthodontic issues, such as:
Underbites
Overbites
Crossbites
Open bites
Severely crooked teeth
Jaw abnormalities
Customizable and Stylish: Many teens enjoy choosing colorful bands to decorate their braces, making each visit a chance to express their personality.
“Braces have come a long way in terms of comfort and appearance. They’re now a great mix of function and style,” says Dr. John R. Feusier.
What Types of Braces Are Available?
At Wright & Feusier Orthodontics, we offer a variety of braces to suit every teen’s needs and preferences:
Traditional Metal Braces: Made from surgical-grade stainless steel, these braces are strong, reliable, and effective for even the toughest cases. Teens can customize them with colorful bands to make their braces unique.
Ceramic Braces: For a more discreet option, ceramic braces blend with the natural color of teeth, making them less noticeable while still providing excellent results.
Self-Ligating Braces: These braces use a special clip instead of elastics to hold the wire in place, reducing friction and often shortening treatment time.
What to Expect During Treatment
Orthodontic treatment for teens typically lasts between 12 and 30 months, depending on the complexity of the case. Here’s what the process looks like:
Initial Consultation: Dr. Wright or Dr. Feusier will perform a comprehensive exam and discuss treatment options tailored to your teen’s needs.
Placement of Braces: Once the treatment plan is finalized, braces are carefully applied during a comfortable in-office visit.
Regular Adjustments: Teens will visit our office every 6–8 weeks to ensure their braces are working as planned and to make any necessary adjustments.
Completion and Retainers: After braces come off, retainers are provided to keep the teeth in their new positions.
Benefits Beyond a Great Smile
Braces do more than straighten teeth—they improve overall oral health and function:
Preventing Tooth Damage: Proper alignment reduces wear and tear on teeth caused by a misaligned bite.
Better Oral Hygiene: Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Improved Speech and Chewing: Correcting jaw alignment improves everyday functions like eating and speaking.
“Straightening teeth improves both appearance and health, giving teens a smile that lasts a lifetime,” explains Dr. Wright.
Your Teen’s Comfort Is Our Priority
We understand that teens have busy lives filled with school, sports, and social activities. That’s why we make braces as comfortable and convenient as possible. Today’s braces are designed to minimize discomfort, and we provide tips to help teens adjust quickly.
Patient Testimonials
Here’s what parents and teens are saying about their experience with braces at Wright & Feusier Orthodontics:
“My son was nervous about getting braces, but the team made him feel at ease. Now he loves his smile!”
“Dr. Feusier explained everything so clearly, and my daughter loves customizing her braces with fun colors.”
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
The teen years are the perfect time to invest in your child’s smile. At Wright & Feusier Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to providing top-notch care and creating smiles that teens will love for life.
💡 Contact us today to schedule a free consultation in Santa Barbara or Buellton. Let’s make braces a positive experience for your teen!