Teens

Dr. Delplanche is an expert in recognizing orthodontic problems that may lead to future issues with the function of teeth.

Here are a few signs your teen could benefit from orthodontic treatment:

• Early, late, or irregular loss of baby teeth
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Crowding or extra spacing between teeth
• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Missing or extra tooth
• An overbite or underbite
• Incorrect jaw position
• A disorder of the jaw joint

• Benefits of having straight teeth can include:
• Being less prone to wear and tear chipping or tooth trauma
• Being easier to keep clean, helping prevent tooth decay and cavities
• Reducing the chance of having gum disease, which can result in bone loss, decay and tooth loss
• Improving proper chewing and digestion of food

That’s a tough question! Since now two cases are alike and we want to focus on quality treatment, we will give you an estimated treatment length and make it our goal to finish on time. Most comprehensive cases in our office are completed in 18-24 months but of course things like difficulty and patient compliance will make the case take less time or sometimes a bit longer.

You can expect the braces or appliances to make the teeth sore for a few days after they are placed and after each adjustment appointment. These should not be painful, but merely annoying and can be relieved with an over-the-counter pain reliever. Dr. Delplanche uses mini braces which allows lighter forces to move the teeth and reduce overall discomfort.

In our office this first appointment to get braces placed can take about an hour, and oftentimes we can even do this on the same day of the initial appointment. We will work hard to make it as easy and comfortable for you as possible. At the end of the appointment, a team member will explain how to brush and floss with braces, review what foods to avoid (hard, sticky and chewy) so braces are not broken, and what to do if you experience any difficulties with your braces. This is a great time to ask any questions about the care of your new braces. For the duration of treatment, make sure to limit your intake of sugary or acidic drinks to avoid decalcification.

Yes, they will absolutely still be able to participate in their activity of choice. Although it might take a couple of days for them to get used to their new appliances, they can still enjoy all the activities that make them happy. We highly recommend a sports mouthguard if your child is playing any athletic sports to help protect the teeth and appliances. If your child is wearing Invisalign aligners, it is recommended that they wear them for about 22 hours per day, but can take them out for eating, brushing and if they play sports where a mouthguard is recommended.