Braces for teens in Davenport FL are orthodontic appliances designed to correct alignment and bite issues during the peak growth years of adolescence. At Shannon Orthodontics, our orthodontists use brackets and wires to gently guide teeth into their ideal positions, helping teens achieve a healthy, confident smile that supports better oral health for life.
The teen years are an ideal time for orthodontic care because most permanent teeth have erupted and the jaw is still developing. This makes treatment more efficient and often shorter than adult care.
What Are Braces for Teens?
Braces for teens are orthodontic appliances that straighten teeth and correct bite problems during adolescence, typically between ages 11 and 17. At this stage, most permanent teeth have come in, and the jaw is still growing. That combination lets our orthodontists at Shannon Orthodontics guide teeth into proper alignment efficiently and predictably.
Teens today have more choices than ever. Options at our practice include:
- Traditional metal braces, durable and effective for all cases
- Clear ceramic braces, blend in with natural tooth color
- Gold braces, a stylish twist on classic metal
- Mini metal braces, smaller brackets for added comfort
- Wild Smiles braces, fun-shaped brackets that let teens express their personality
Treating bite and alignment issues during the teen years can prevent bigger problems later, such as uneven wear, jaw discomfort, or speech difficulties. Our team helps each family find the right style and approach for their teen’s lifestyle and smile goals.
Benefits of Teen Braces
Choosing braces during the teen years offers advantages that go well beyond a straighter smile. Here’s what your teen can expect:
- Improved confidence and self-esteem. A straighter smile during the social middle and high school years can make a real difference in how teens feel about themselves.
- Corrected bite issues. Braces fix overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites that can cause jaw pain, chewing problems, and even speech issues.
- Better long-term oral health. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss, which lowers the risk of cavities and gum disease as your teen grows into adulthood.
- Potentially shorter treatment. Because teens are still growing, teeth often respond faster to orthodontic care than they do in adulthood, which can shorten total treatment time.
- Personalized style options. From clear ceramic to fun WildSmiles shapes, teens can pick a look that fits their personality and lifestyle.
- A strong start for lifelong wellness. Properly aligned teeth and jaws reduce wear on tooth surfaces and can prevent future dental work down the road.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up by age 7, which helps our orthodontists spot alignment and bite issues early and plan the right timing for treatment. Our orthodontists at Shannon Orthodontics help teens get these benefits with care that fits each individual.
How Teen Braces Work: The Treatment Process
Getting braces for teens in Davenport FL at Shannon Orthodontics typically takes 18 to 24 months, depending on case complexity. Treatment begins with a free consultation and digital imaging. From there, our team builds a custom plan, places the braces, and schedules regular adjustments every 4 to 8 weeks. A retainer phase follows to lock in the results. Our team guides families every step of the way.
Here’s what to expect:
- Free consultation and digital imaging. Your teen visits our Davenport, FL practice for a complimentary new patient exam. We take digital scans and X-rays to evaluate tooth position, bite, and jaw growth.
- Custom treatment plan and braces placement. Our orthodontists design a plan tailored to your teen’s smile goals. Once you choose a braces style, placement is quick and painless. Brackets are bonded to each tooth, and a wire is threaded through.
- Periodic adjustments. Your teen returns every 4 to 8 weeks so we can adjust the wires and check progress. These visits are short and help keep treatment on track.
- Braces removal and retainer phase. After active treatment ends, we carefully remove the braces and fit your teen with a custom retainer. Wearing the retainer as directed keeps the new smile in place for life.
Is Your Teen a Good Candidate for Braces?
Many teens benefit from orthodontic care, but a professional exam is the best way to know for sure. Use this quick checklist to see if your teen may be a good candidate:
- Crowded, crooked, or overlapping teeth
- Overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
- Noticeable gaps or spacing between teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting properly
- Jaw discomfort or clicking
- Most permanent teeth have erupted (typically ages 11-17)
- Good general oral hygiene habits
Even if your teen only checks one or two boxes, it’s worth scheduling a visit. A complimentary new patient exam at Shannon Orthodontics gives our orthodontists the chance to evaluate growth, alignment, and bite, then recommend the best treatment option. Some teens are ideal candidates for traditional metal braces, while others may benefit from clear ceramic, gold, mini metal, or fun WildSmiles brackets. We’ll walk you through the choices together so your family can pick the style that fits best.
Why Choose Shannon Orthodontics for Teen Braces in Davenport, FL
Families in Davenport, FL trust Shannon Orthodontics because we combine experienced care with a fun and energetic office that teens actually enjoy visiting. Here’s what sets our practice apart:
- Experienced orthodontists. Dr. Chris Shannon, DDS, and Dr. Tyrel Larsen, DDS, MS, lead our team. Dr. Larsen is board certified, and both doctors are members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), Southern Association of Orthodontists (SAO), American Dental Association (ADA), and Florida Dental Association (FDA).
- Full range of braces options. From traditional metal to clear ceramic, gold, mini metal, and WildSmiles, your teen can pick the style that feels right.
- Teen-friendly care. Our team understands what teens need, from comfortable appointments to flexible scheduling around school and sports.
- A welcoming, family-focused practice. Parents and teens alike feel at home in our fun and energetic office, where care is personal and friendly from the first visit.
- Convenient Davenport location. Our practice at 2390 North Blvd West, Davenport, FL 33837 serves Davenport, Celebration, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Kissimmee, Poinciana, and Haines City.
- Flexible financing. We offer financial options and online payment to help families fit treatment into their budget.
- Bilingual care. Hablamos español, so every family feels welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teen Braces
How long do teen braces take?
Most teens wear braces for 18 to 24 months, though some cases finish sooner and others take longer. The exact timeline depends on the complexity of the bite and alignment issues being corrected. During your teen’s free consultation at Shannon Orthodontics, our orthodontists will give you a clear estimate based on their specific needs.
How much do braces for teens cost in Davenport FL?
Cost varies based on the type of braces, length of treatment, and case complexity. At Shannon Orthodontics, we offer flexible financial options and online payment to make care manageable for Davenport families. The best way to get an accurate quote is to schedule your complimentary new patient exam, where we’ll review pricing and payment plans with you.
Do braces hurt?
No, getting braces placed does not hurt. After placement and adjustments, teens may feel some soreness or pressure for a few days as teeth begin to shift. Over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods usually help. Most teens adjust quickly and return to normal activities within a day or two.
What foods should teens avoid with braces?
Teens with braces should skip hard, sticky, and chewy foods that can damage brackets or wires. Common foods to avoid include:
| Avoid | Why |
|---|---|
| Hard candy, ice | Can crack brackets |
| Caramel, gum, taffy | Sticks to braces |
| Popcorn, nuts | Pieces get stuck |
| Whole apples, raw carrots | Can bend wires (cut into small pieces instead) |
Soft foods like pasta, yogurt, soft fruits, and tender proteins are great choices.
Metal vs ceramic braces: which is better for teens?
Both work well. Metal braces are durable, efficient, and often the most budget-friendly choice. Ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend in for a more subtle look, which many teens prefer for school photos and social settings. Our orthodontists can help you and your teen decide based on lifestyle, treatment goals, and personal style.
How do teens care for braces during sports?
Teens active in sports should wear a custom or boil-and-bite mouthguard designed for braces. This protects both the braces and the soft tissues of the mouth from injury. Let our team know what sports your teen plays, and we’ll recommend the right mouthguard option for safe play.
Schedule Your Teen’s Free Braces Consultation in Davenport, FL
Give your teen a healthy, confident smile with help from a team that makes it easy to get started. Call Shannon Orthodontics at 863-353-6867 or book online to schedule your complimentary new patient exam at our Davenport, FL practice. Starting treatment during the teen years can lead to shorter, more comfortable care and lasting results.
Our practice proudly serves families in Davenport, Celebration, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Kissimmee, Poinciana, and Haines City. We are eager to hear from you!