At Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists, Dr. Darren Rodabough, Dr. Alex Oldroyd, Dr. Courtney Ethington, and Dr. Jacob Bleyer are proud to help teens across Missouri and Illinois smile with confidence. There’s a lot that goes into teen treatment, but don’t worry! We’ve got the info you need to feel confident going into this important phase in your child’s development, right here.
When Should You Start Thinking About Treatment?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a window when orthodontic treatment tends to work best. For most teens, the ideal time falls between ages 11 and 15, once all or most permanent teeth have come in, but while the jaw is still developing.
That timing allows us to guide your teen’s bite and alignment more easily, often shortening the total treatment time. Waiting too long can lead to more complex issues that take longer to correct.
What Are the Early Warning Signs?
Even if your teen hasn’t mentioned anything, you may notice signs that something’s not quite right. Crowded teeth, visible gaps, or complaints of jaw discomfort can all be early indicators. Some teens also mention difficulty biting or chewing, or feeling self-conscious about their smile.
The American Association of Orthodontists and our team both recommend an initial checkup by age 7. This doesn’t always mean treatment will start right away, but it gives your orthodontist the chance to monitor growth and step in at the right moment if needed.
Why the Teen Years Matter Most
Teen smile development happens quickly. During this stage, your teen’s bones are more adaptable, making treatments like braces or aligners more effective and efficient. This is also a key moment for confidence—starting orthodontic treatment at the right time can have a positive impact on self-image and emotional development.
What Are the Best Treatment Options for Teens?
At Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists, we offer a full range of options fully customizable for your teen’s needs and preferences. Whether your teen prefers the structure of braces or the flexibility of clear aligners, we’ll help you choose the solution that fits best.
Braces: A Classic Choice for a Reason
Modern metal braces remain one of the most trusted tools for teen orthodontic treatment. They’re reliable, efficient, and capable of correcting everything from crowding to bite misalignments.
Today’s braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever before—and thanks to colored elastics, your teen can personalize their look and change it up with each visit.
Clear Braces: The Low-Profile Option
For teens who want a subtler appearance, clear ceramic braces offer the same powerful results in a more discreet design. These blend in with your teen’s natural tooth color, which makes them a great option for school photos, special events, or teens who just prefer a lower-profile approach.
They do require a little more care, but many teens find the added aesthetic benefit worth it.
Invisalign: Discreet and Removable
Clear aligners like Invisalign are a great fit for motivated teens who want flexibility. These nearly invisible trays can be removed for meals, brushing, and special occasions, making them a convenient option for busy teens on the go.
Aligners require consistency, so they work best when your teen is committed to wearing them 20–22 hours a day. But for the right candidate, they offer incredible freedom and comfort throughout the orthodontic timeline.
What Happens After You Get Started?
Orthodontic treatment is a process, not a one-time fix. At Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists, we’re with you and your teen every step of the way—from the first appointment to the final reveal.
Initial Consultation
At your teen’s first visit, we’ll take detailed digital images and X-rays, perform a comprehensive exam, and walk you through the options. We’ll explain the timeline, answer your questions, and give you a clear picture of what to expect.
This visit is all about clarity and comfort, so you and your teen can make an informed decision together.
Regular Check-Ins
Once treatment starts, you can expect to visit us every 6–8 weeks. These appointments help us track progress, make adjustments, and ensure your teen stays on course.
Whether it’s switching aligner trays or tightening braces, we make these check-ins simple, smooth, and stress-free.
Typical Treatment Timeline
Most teen orthodontic treatment plans run between 12 and 24 months. Some cases can be shorter, especially when caught early. Every treatment is personalized, so your teen’s timeline may vary depending on their specific needs.
Throughout the process, we’ll keep you updated so you’re never left guessing.
Helping Your Teen Stay Motivated
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just about teeth—it’s about confidence, responsibility, and creating habits that last a lifetime. Here’s how you can help your teen make the most of the journey.
Support Makes a Difference
Even small reminders—like encouraging good brushing or helping track aligner wear—can go a long way. Stay involved and positive, and let your teen know you’re in it together. Our team is always available if questions or concerns pop up.
Creating a Comfortable Experience
We work hard to make Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists a place your teen actually wants to visit. From our friendly team to our fun office atmosphere, we create a space where teens feel seen and supported.
We also love giving teens ownership of their care, whether that’s choosing their bracket colors or setting personal goals for their smile.
Stay Informed at Every Step
We keep communication clear and convenient. You’ll get appointment reminders, treatment updates, and access to your teen’s progress through our online tools. If something changes—or if you just have a quick question—we’re here to help.
Let’s Talk About Your Teen’s Smile
The teenage years are the perfect time to set the foundation for a lifetime of confident smiles. With expert care, flexible options, and a team that truly cares, Bankhead Orthodontic Specialists makes teen orthodontic treatment a positive experience from day one.
Whether your teen is ready to start or you’re just gathering info, we’re here to answer all your orthodontic questions.
Schedule your teen’s free consultation today—and let’s build something great together.