Braces and Invisalign for Commerce City Teens
The teen years are when most people get orthodontic treatment. By then, most permanent teeth have come in, and teens are old enough to help decide how their treatment will look and fit into their lives. At Garlock Orthodontics, Dr. David Garlock and Dr. Logan Smith work with teens and their parents to choose an option the teen will actually stick with.
Our office is at 6240 S. Main St., Suite 220, in Aurora, and the first consultation is free.
Choosing Between Braces and Invisalign as a Teen
Both options work. The right choice depends on your teen’s bite and habits:
- Braces for teens stay on full time, so they suit teens who’d rather not keep track of aligners. They’re also dependable for complex bite problems.
- Invisalign for teens is nearly invisible and removable, with no food restrictions. It does require the discipline to wear aligners as prescribed.
Braces don’t have to mean shiny metal. Ceramic, self-ligating, and custom LightForce brackets come in tooth-colored versions. You can compare them on our braces options page.
Orthodontic Treatment That Fits Sports and School
Teens want treatment that doesn’t take over their schedule. Self-ligating brackets are designed for fewer adjustment appointments, and removable aligners come out for games, performances, and photos. Teens in braces who play contact sports should wear a mouthguard.
What If Something Breaks?
Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but teens are active. The most common issue is a loose bracket or band. Don’t force it. Use a cotton swab to nudge it back into place if you can, save the piece, and call us. Mild soreness after an adjustment usually passes in a few days and responds to over-the-counter pain relievers or warm salt water rinses. Our orthodontic emergency care page covers what to do.
Keeping Teen Smiles Straight After Treatment
Teeth tend to shift after treatment, and teens are notorious for losing retainers. That’s why every patient finishes with custom orthodontic retainers, and why we offer Retainer Insurance, which provides replacement retainers for up to six years after your braces come off.
Teen Orthodontic Questions From Commerce City Families
What age do most teens start treatment?
Most start once the permanent teeth have come in, but timing depends on your child’s growth. Some teens have already completed an early phase of treatment.
Can my teen switch from braces to Invisalign?
Sometimes, depending on their case. Ask your orthodontist at any appointment.
How do we pay for treatment?
We offer in-house 0% financing with flexible down payment and monthly options, and we work with all insurance plans. See our financing information.
Will my teen need to miss a lot of school?
Self-ligating brackets and aligners are designed to need fewer visits than traditional braces.
Schedule a Free Teen Orthodontic Consultation
Help your teen get a smile they’re proud of. Request a free consultation with Garlock Orthodontics.