Orthodontics for Teenagers : A smile confident for the future

Between the ages of 10 and 15, bone growth is at its peak: jaws can be guided more easily and teeth respond quickly to applied forces.Entre 10 et 15 ans, la croissance osseuse est en plein essor : les mâchoires peuvent être guidées plus facilement et les dents réagissent rapidement aux forces appliquées. 

Treatments started at this age are often shorter and can help avoid extractions or surgical procedures. It is therefore the ideal time to correct crowding or misalignment and achieve a harmonious smile.

An early consultation allows the orthodontist to determine the right time to begin. 

Even if treatment is not immediately necessary, regular monitoring helps plan the intervention and reassures the teenager about the progress of their dentition. 

The practitioner clearly explains the upcoming steps in order to involve the teenager in their own treatment.

• The front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed: a gap or open bite can make it difficult to bite into food or pronounce certain sounds.
• The upper and lower jaws do not fit together properly: this may result in a chin that is too far forward or backward and can interfere with chewing.
• Teeth are too crowded, overlap, or lack space: the teenager may struggle to clean their teeth properly, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Mouth breathing or speech difficulties: these signs may be linked to poor jaw positioning.
• Unbalanced lips or a receding chin: an aesthetic imbalance may affect self-confidence.

If your teenager shows any of these symptoms, an orthodontic evaluation is recommended to detect malocclusions and prevent future problems.

• Apparatus Multi-attachment Fixed : brackets metallic or ceramic glued on each tooth, related by a thread which displaces progressively the teeth. The modern versions are thinner and coloured, and can be personalised with elastic elastic of different colours for a playful side.
• Orthodontic elastics and archwires : these elements complement fixed braces and correct the relationship between the jaws. They are worn between certain teeth to move the jaws in relation to each other.
• Transparent Aligners (Type Invisalign) : gutters removable and virtually invisible, adapted to some teenagers. They offer more comfort and aesthetics, but require a good discipline : it needs they wear around 20-22 hours per day and they change every the two weeks.  

• Class I :the jaws are correctly aligned, or teeth are encumbered.
• Class II: a jaw upper is too advanced compared to the jaw inferior, giving the impression of a “menton reclined.
• Class III: the jaw inferior is too advanced compared to the jaw upper, this which leads to a “mentum forward and backward” (prognathism).

By identifying the class of malocclusion, you can choose the technique best suited to achieving a balanced, functional smile.

1. Detailed Diagnosis: At the first appointment, x-rays and dental impressions are taken to establish a personalised treatment plan. The teenager discovers the different options and can ask any questions.
2. Appliance fitting: The orthodontist fits and adjusts the chosen appliance. A period of adaptation is necessary, but the team provides advice on how to live well with your braces on a daily basis.
3. Monthly follow-up: Regular visits over 12 to 24 months allow wires to be tightened or aligners to be changed. Each adjustment brings the patient closer to their final smile.
4. Contention phase: Once the teeth have been aligned, a retainer (bonded wire or splint) is worn to stabilise the results over the long term. This stage is essential to maintain the smile achieved.