Orthodontics for Teens in Del Mar, CA
Orthodontic treatment for teens differs from treatment for younger children because, by age 13, all baby teeth will have been lost, and the jaw bones will stop growing and harden. Sunny Smiles Kids Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in Del Mar, CA, offers a variety of orthodontic treatments.
The advantage of orthodontic treatment
Orthodontic treatment addresses both tooth straightening and the physical and facial changes a young patient goes through in the teen years. It is designed to maximize the opportunity to create the ideal healthy, aesthetic, and functional smile that a child can enjoy for the rest of their life.
Stage one
This stage aims to help the jaw develop properly to accommodate all permanent teeth successfully. We will also ensure that the upper and lower jaws fit together during this stage. This stage usually begins before the teen years to aid the progression of stage two treatment. Orthodontic records, such as models of the teeth, x-rays, and photographs, will be taken to determine the best type of appliance to be used for the child and to create a treatment plan.
Resting period
No work will be done on the teeth during this period. Instead, the permanent teeth will be allowed to erupt naturally. The success of stage one should have created sufficient room for the permanent teeth to come in without any problems. Your dentist will monitor this in periodic appointments during this resting period, and baby teeth may be removed in the best interest of erupting teeth.
Stage two
This stage is when the teeth change position until each tooth is right about the other teeth, lips, cheeks, and tongue. Using the orthodontic records taken during stage one, the orthodontic appliances will be placed onto the teeth after all the permanent teeth have erupted. Patients usually will be required to wear braces for about 24 months. Following this period, retainers should be worn to preserve the new position of the teeth.
For a consultation on orthodontic treatment for your teen, visit us at Sunny Smiles Kids Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in Del Mar, CA.
FAQs
We recommend scheduling a visit around ages 12‑14, when most permanent teeth have erupted and jaw growth is nearing completion. This helps us design a treatment plan that aligns with your child’s development and ensures effective results while minimizing disruptions.
Absolutely. Even without earlier intervention, our team at Sunny Smiles Kids Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics can assess and treat alignment or bite concerns. A thorough evaluation guides the right orthodontic appliances and timeline so your teen can still achieve a healthy, attractive smile.
We consider your teen’s sports, instrument use, and social needs when planning orthodontic treatment at Sunny Smiles Kids Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. We’ll recommend appropriate appliances, protective gear, and brushing/flossing strategies so treatment adapts to your teen’s active school and extracurricular life.
Treatment generally ranges from 18 to 30 months, depending on complexity. At Sunny Smiles Kids Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we set clear milestones and adjust the plan as needed, ensuring your teen understands progress, appliance care, and the end goal of a stable, lasting result.