Braces for Teens in Edmonds, WA

At Edmonds Orthodontics, we understand that the teenage years are an important time for building confidence and self-esteem. A straight, healthy smile can make an immensely significant difference in a teen’s life, and braces remain one of the most effective ways to achieve that. Our expert orthodontists — Dr. Kim and Dr. O’Hara — provide personalized treatment plans to help teens in Edmonds, WA, achieve beautiful, lasting results.

Why Braces Matter for Teens

The teenage years are an ideal time to undergo orthodontic treatment. At this stage, most permanent teeth have erupted, making it easier to correct misalignment, spacing issues, and bite irregularities. Braces for teens in Edmonds, WA not only improve the appearance of a teen’s smile but also contribute to better oral health by making teeth easier to clean and reducing the risk of future dental problems. A straight, well-aligned smile can boost self-confidence, allowing teens to feel more comfortable in social situations, school, and extracurricular activities.

What Issues May Require Braces?

Braces for teens in Edmonds, WA, are used to correct a wide variety of troublesome orthodontic issues that can affect both the function and appearance of a teen’s smile. Some common reasons for braces include:

• Crowding – Teeth that are too close together, making brushing and flossing difficult.
• Spacing – Gaps between teeth that may affect alignment and bite function.
• Overbite – Upper front teeth that excessively overlap the lower front teeth.
• Underbite – Lower teeth that extend past the upper teeth when biting.
• Crossbite – Teeth that do not align properly when the mouth is closed.
• Open bite – A gap between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed.

Early intervention with braces for teens in Edmonds, WA, can prevent more complex dental issues down the road, ensuring a healthier smile for life.

Life With Braces: What Teens Can Expect

Adjusting to braces takes some time, but most teens quickly adapt to their new orthodontic routine. Here’s what they can expect during treatment:

• Regular Adjustments: Every few weeks, teens will visit Dr. Kim or Dr. O’Hara to have their braces adjusted, ensuring that their teeth continue shifting properly.
• Mild Discomfort: Some soreness may occur after adjustments, but this is temporary and can be managed with orthodontic wax and over-the-counter pain relief.
• Dietary Changes: Avoiding hard, sticky, and chewy foods will help prevent damage to braces.
• Improved Oral Hygiene: Proper brushing and flossing techniques are absolutely essential to keep teeth and gums healthy throughout treatment.

Our outstanding team provides ongoing support to ensure that every teen has a smooth and successful orthodontic experience.

Tips for Maintaining Braces for Teens

To get the best results from braces, teens should follow these essential care tips:

• Brush and floss regularly – Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing tools designed for braces will help prevent plaque buildup.
• Avoid certain foods – Hard, sticky, and chewy foods can damage braces and delay treatment progress.
• Wear a mouthguard for sports – Protecting braces during physical activities helps prevent injuries.
• Attend all orthodontic appointments – Regular check-ups allow Dr. Kim and Dr. O’Hara to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.
• Follow all care instructions – Adhering to the orthodontist’s guidance ensures that treatment stays on track and delivers optimal results.

At Edmonds Orthodontics, we make the braces journey as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Our goal is to give teens a smile they can feel proud of for years to come.