We get it—not everyone wants braces. Although traditional braces are one of the most
effective ways to move teeth in a relatively short period of time, kids are often reluctant to get
braces, especially as they get older. By the time they enter their teenage years, your child might
not want to be burdened with having a visible set of braces.
Fortunately, your teenager does have alternatives to getting braces. From clear braces to ones
that are totally hidden—and those that are invisible—here are your top options to straighten
those teeth before your teen becomes and adult!
Invisalign
Invisalign is truly the most invisible way to straighten your teen’s teeth. This method of
orthodontia uses sets of clear aligner trays that your teenager will progress through as their
teeth move into place. Invisalign aligners are fully removable and virtually invisible, very unlike
regular metal braces.
If your teenager wants treatment that’s subtle, Invisalign can fix many issues that teenagers
need corrected including overbites, gapped teeth, crowded teeth, underbites, and more. The
treatment time will be unique to your teen’s smile, but is comparable to that of traditional
braces. With fewer orthodontic visits and invisible treatment, Invisalign is an attractive option!
Lingual Braces
These unique braces are just like traditional braces but with a twist—the braces go on the other
side of your teeth! Lingual braces are designed to work like regular braces but are hidden
behind your teeth so that no one will know your teenager is getting their smile corrected from
the inside out.
Not everyone is a candidate for lingual braces, as the side of the teeth facing the tongue needs
to be large enough on all teeth to accommodate the brackets and wires. Your orthodontist can
evaluate your child’s teeth for lingual braces if your teen is interested in these as an option for
their orthodontic treatment.
Damon Braces
Damon braces again mimic traditional braces but instead use clear brackets and arched wires to
have a more neutral appearance. In addition to their subtle appearance, damon braces focus on
a slide mechanism to move with the teeth as they shift into their proper positions, rather than
using brackets like traditional braces do.
These braces are designed to not be as obvious as regular braces as well as to be more
comfortable, since they apply less pressure and work with the teeth as they move. Other
benefits include having a speedy treatment time, less maintenance, and being appearance-
friendly for your teenager!
Does your teen need braces but is balking at the idea of having a “metal mouth”? These days,
you both have options for more attractive, subtle, and effective forms of orthodontia to still get
that straight smile without having regular braces. Visit your orthodontist today to discuss your
teen’s options for getting a perfect smile!
