Braces might not be the thing your teen is begging for, but confidence? That’s a different story! Dr. John Kittleson has seen it firsthand at Kittleson Orthodontics in Mequon: teens who barely smiled at their first visit are cracking jokes by the time their braces come off. Small changes in their smile can spark big changes in how they carry themselves. So let’s talk about why getting orthodontic treatment for teens during these years is such a smart time to start.
Why Teen Years Make Sense For Orthodontics
There’s a reason orthodontic treatment is so common during the teen years: it just makes sense! It’s a time when physical growth, personal awareness, and dental development all line up to create the ideal window for treatment. Here’s why:
- Most adult teeth are in place, providing orthodontists with a complete picture to work with.
- The jaw is still growing, which makes it easier to guide teeth into better positions.
- Teens are becoming increasingly self-aware, and many start to think more about their appearance and self-confidence.
- Early correction can help avoid more significant issues later, saving time and potentially avoiding more extensive treatment in the future.
Parents often tell Dr. Kittleson that their teen becomes more outgoing during treatment. Once the timing is right, it’s time to explore which treatment option fits your teen’s lifestyle.
Treatments That Work For Teens
Teenagers are busy, so orthodontic treatment needs to keep up. Dr. Kittleson offers several options designed to blend into school days, sports schedules, and everything in between. Each approach has its perks, depending on your teen’s needs and preferences.
Metal Braces
- A classic choice that’s more comfortable and low-profile than ever
- Strong and reliable for all types of treatment needs
- Teens can choose colored bands to match their mood, school colors, or the season
Clear Ceramic Braces
- Tooth-colored brackets offer a more subtle look
- A good option for teens who want something less noticeable
- Just as effective as metal braces for most cases
Clear Aligners (Invisalign & SureSmile)
- Smooth, nearly invisible trays that are removable for meals, sports, and photos
- Fewer food restrictions and easier brushing and flossing
- Great for responsible teens who can stick to their wear schedule
Finding the right fit starts with knowing what daily life will look like in treatment. Let’s take a look at how it all plays out from week to week.
What Treatment Looks Like Week to Week
Orthodontic care doesn’t have to throw off your teen’s rhythm. At Kittleson Orthodontics, our process is tailored to your family’s schedule, offering flexible appointments and a team that understands the busy lives of teens.
Here’s what a typical treatment routine looks like:
- Check-ins every 6–8 weeks for adjustments or progress scans. These are quick and easy to schedule around school or after-school commitments.
- Clear aligner patients may receive multiple sets at once, with in-person or virtual check-ins depending on the plan Dr. Kittleson recommends.
- Oral hygiene stays front and center—braces require a little more attention when brushing and flossing, while aligners are removed for easy cleaning. It is also very important to keep aligners clean.
- Consistency is everything—that means wearing aligners 20–22 hours a day or keeping up with rubber bands to keep treatment on track.
With the right support, most teens settle into their routine quickly. And a big part of that success comes from what happens at home. Let’s explore how you can help along the way.
How Parents Can Keep Treatment on Track
Your teen might be the one in the chair, but your support behind the scenes makes a real difference. At Kittleson Orthodontics, we’ve seen how small actions at home can help teens stay consistent, motivated, and even a little more excited about their progress.
Build Habits Early
In the first few weeks, help your teen get into the routine of brushing, flossing, and wearing their appliances as directed. Gentle reminders and a visible calendar or checklist can make those new habits stick.
Create an On-the-Go Kit
Whether they’re at Homestead High or heading to basketball practice, having a small kit with a toothbrush, floss, and wax (for braces) can help your teen stay prepared wherever they are.
Celebrate the Wins
Treatment can feel long, so marking small milestones (like finishing a series of aligners or reaching the halfway point) can keep things positive. A trip to Cocoa Tree Confectionery or a new case for their aligners goes a long way!
Stay Connected with the Office
Keeping an open line with Dr. Kittleson and the Kittleson Orthodontics team helps you stay in the loop. If your teen has questions or something feels off, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Even the best habits can hit a few bumps. Next, we’ll take a look at some common challenges and how to avoid them.
Common Bumps in the Road (and How to Handle Them)
Even with the best intentions, treatment doesn’t always go exactly as planned. The good news? Most setbacks can be easily avoided with a little awareness and some support from home. Dr. Kittleson and the team at Kittleson Orthodontics help families in Mequon stay ahead of these common pitfalls:
- Missed Appointments: Life gets busy, but regular check-ins are key to keeping everything on schedule. Rescheduling when needed is always better than skipping altogether.
- Skipped Wear Time: For aligner patients, not wearing trays for the full 20–22 hours a day can delay results. A phone reminder or an aligner tracker app can help.
- Bracket Breakage: Chewing on pens, biting into hard snacks, or skipping food guidelines can lead to broken braces and extra visits.
- Poor Brushing and Flossing: Plaque buildup can slow treatment and cause other oral health issues. Daily care helps keep things on track.
Keeping these small things in check makes the whole experience smoother and helps avoid unnecessary delays. And if something ever does come up, the team at Kittleson Orthodontics is just a call away. With the right plan and support, your teen’s smile is in good hands from start to finish.
A Better Fit for Your Teen
Orthodontic treatment for teens might feel like a big leap, but with the right team, it becomes just another part of life (only with way more smile-worthy moments)! Dr. John Kittleson and the crew at Kittleson Orthodontics in Mequon make every step feel less stressful and more like it’s totally worth it. If your teen’s ready to take the next step, schedule a free consultation and see how we make great care feel like a perfect fit.