Braces for teens are orthodontic appliances that gradually shift teeth into proper alignment using brackets, wires, and elastics. At Shannon Orthodontics, our orthodontists help teenagers correct crowding, gaps, and bite issues during the prime growth years, when teeth respond quickly and results tend to hold well.
What Are Braces for Teens?
The teen years are often the best time for orthodontic care. Most permanent teeth have come in, the jaw is still developing, and treatment can be timed to support natural growth. That combination usually means a smoother experience and stable results that last well into adulthood.
Our practice is located in Davenport and proudly serves teenagers and families across Kissimmee, FL. We offer several braces options to fit different personalities and needs:
- Traditional metal braces, durable, reliable, and a teen favorite for personalization with colorful bands
- Clear ceramic braces, tooth-colored brackets that blend in for a more subtle look
- Gold braces, a stylish twist on the classic metal option
- Mini metal braces, smaller brackets for added comfort
- Wild Smiles braces, fun bracket shapes like stars, hearts, and footballs
Here’s a quick comparison to help your teen weigh the options at a glance:
| Braces Type | Appearance | Durability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional metal | Visible, customizable bands | Very high | Teens who want color and value |
| Clear ceramic | Subtle, tooth-colored | Moderate to high | Teens wanting a discreet look |
| Gold braces | Visible, stylish gold tone | Very high | Teens who want a unique style |
| Mini metal | Smaller, less noticeable metal | Very high | Teens seeking added comfort |
| Wild Smiles | Fun shapes (stars, hearts) | High | Teens wanting personality and play |
Braces gently apply steady pressure to move teeth into the right position. Over time, this corrects crowding, closes gaps, fixes crossbites, and aligns the bite so the upper and lower teeth meet correctly. A balanced bite reduces uneven wear, jaw strain, and future dental problems, which makes treatment an investment in long-term health rather than just appearance.
As your local teen braces provider serving Kissimmee, FL, Shannon Orthodontics combines proven treatments with a fun and energetic office that helps teens feel right at home. Our team understands what teenagers care about: how braces look, how they feel, and how soon they’ll see results. We answer every question honestly and tailor each plan to the patient in front of us, because no two smiles are exactly the same.
Benefits of Braces for Teens in Kissimmee, FL
Straight teeth do more than improve a smile. They support better health, daily function, and self-image during years that really matter for a growing teenager.
Boosted confidence
Teens often feel self-conscious about their smiles. As teeth shift into place, many patients gain a noticeable lift in confidence at school, sports, and social events, and that change tends to carry into how they speak and interact with others.
Better long-term oral health
Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss. Clean teeth lower the risk of cavities and gum disease, which sets your teen up for a healthy, confident smile well into adulthood and reduces the need for restorative work later.
A balanced, functional bite
Correcting an overbite, underbite, or crossbite reduces uneven tooth wear, eases jaw tension, and can help with chewing and speech. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, bite problems left untreated may lead to more serious dental issues later.
Customization that feels personal
Teens can pick colored bands at each appointment, choose Wild Smiles shapes, or go subtle with clear ceramic. It’s their smile, and they get to make it their own at every visit.
Faster, more stable results during growth
Treating teeth while the jaw is still developing often means quicker tooth movement and results that hold. Our orthodontists time treatment to take advantage of this growth phase, which can shorten the overall length of care in many cases.
Parents also appreciate the bigger picture. Investing in orthodontic care during the teen years can prevent costly dental work down the road. Because our practice offers flexible financing, getting started doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, and our team is happy to walk through the numbers with you.
The Teen Braces Process at Shannon Orthodontics
Getting braces is a step-by-step process, and we make sure your teen and your family know what to expect at every stage. Here’s how treatment typically works at our practice.
Step 1: Free Consultation and Digital Exam
Your teen’s first visit is a complimentary new patient exam. Our orthodontists review dental history, take digital images, and examine the teeth, jaw, and bite. We discuss what we see, answer questions, and explain the options in plain language so nothing feels confusing.
Step 2: Custom Treatment Plan
Next, we build a treatment plan around your teen’s specific needs and goals. This includes the recommended type of braces, estimated timeline, and a clear cost breakdown with financing options. No surprises, no pressure, just a straightforward path forward.
Step 3: Braces Placement
Placement usually takes one to two hours. We clean the teeth, bond the brackets in place, and attach the archwire. Your teen leaves with care instructions, a kit for daily hygiene, and a smile already on its way to looking and feeling better.
Step 4: Routine Adjustments
Every 4-8 weeks, your teen returns for an adjustment appointment. We change the wires, check progress, and make small tweaks to keep treatment on track. These visits are quick, and they’re often a fun chance to pick new band colors.
Step 5: Braces Removal and Retainers
When teeth have reached their final position, we remove the braces in a single appointment. Your teen will then wear a retainer to protect the results. Retainers are essential. Teeth can shift slightly after treatment, and consistent retainer use keeps that beautiful smile locked in place for years to come.
Most teen treatment falls within a 12-24 month range, though every case is different. Mild alignment issues may finish sooner, while more complex bite corrections can take a bit longer. Throughout treatment, our team stays in close contact with families, so you always know how things are progressing and what comes next.
Is Your Teen a Candidate for Braces?
Most teens between ages 11 and 15 are good candidates for braces once their permanent teeth have come in. Common signs that braces could help include crowded or overlapping teeth, visible gaps, an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or trouble biting and chewing. A simple evaluation at our Davenport practice, which serves Kissimmee, FL and the surrounding communities, is the best way to know for sure.
Here are the most common signs we look for:
- Crowding, teeth that overlap or twist because there isn’t enough space
- Gaps, visible spaces between teeth
- Overbite, upper front teeth that extend too far past the lower teeth
- Underbite, lower teeth that sit in front of upper teeth
- Crossbite, upper and lower teeth that don’t meet correctly
- Open bite, front teeth that don’t touch when biting down
Good oral hygiene matters too. Braces require a daily commitment to brushing, flossing, and watching what foods to avoid. We coach every teen on how to care for their braces, and we keep instructions simple and realistic so the habits actually stick.
During the evaluation, our orthodontists determine which braces option fits best. A teen who plays a wind instrument might prefer ceramic braces. An athlete might lean toward durable metal braces with a custom mouthguard. There’s a right option for nearly every lifestyle and personality.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, or if your teen’s general dentist has suggested an orthodontic visit, now is a great time to schedule. Early evaluation gives our team the chance to time treatment well and catch small issues before they grow. We are eager to hear from you!
Why Choose Shannon Orthodontics in Kissimmee, FL
Choosing the right orthodontist for your teen is a big decision. Families across Kissimmee, FL trust Shannon Orthodontics because of the care, experience, and warmth they find at our practice every time they walk through the door.
Experienced orthodontists who specialize in teen care
Dr. Chris Shannon, DDS and Dr. Tyrel Larsen, DDS, MS bring years of specialized orthodontic training to every case. Dr. Larsen is board certified, a credential earned by orthodontists who go above and beyond standard requirements. Both doctors are active members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), the Southern Association of Orthodontists (SAO), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the Florida Dental Association (FDA). These memberships reflect a commitment to staying current with the latest techniques and standards in orthodontic care.
Several braces options
From classic metal to clear ceramic to Wild Smiles, your teen can choose a style that fits who they are. Having multiple choices means your teen feels involved in the decision rather than simply assigned a treatment.
A welcoming, upbeat atmosphere
Our team understands teens. We keep appointments efficient, the atmosphere relaxed, and the experience genuinely enjoyable. Many families tell us their teens actually look forward to their visits, which makes the whole process easier on everyone.
Flexible financing for families
We offer financial options and online payment to make treatment manageable. Our team walks parents through every cost, so the plan fits both the smile and the budget without unexpected fees along the way.
Bilingual care
Hablamos español, and we welcome families from every background in our community with open arms.
Our patients and their parents consistently share positive feedback about the personal attention and results they experience here, which reflects the kind of care we aim to deliver every day. When you visit our practice, you’ll see why so many Kissimmee, FL families recommend us to their friends and neighbors year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teen Braces
How long do braces take for teens?
Most teens wear braces for 12-24 months, though some cases finish sooner and others take longer. The timeline depends on the complexity of the alignment and bite issues, plus how well your teen follows care instructions. Our orthodontists provide an estimated timeline at the free consultation so families know what to expect.
How much do braces cost for teens in Kissimmee, FL?
Cost varies based on the type of braces chosen and the length of treatment. Factors that influence the final price include the severity of the alignment issue, the materials used, and the total length of care. At Shannon Orthodontics, we offer flexible financial options and online payment plans to help families fit treatment into their budget. We’ll review pricing in detail during the complimentary new patient exam, with no surprises later.
Do braces hurt and how do teens manage discomfort?
Braces don’t cause sharp pain, but most teens feel mild soreness for a few days after placement and after each adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relievers, soft foods, and orthodontic wax for any irritation usually handle it. The soreness fades quickly, and many teens forget their braces are even there after the first week.
Can teens play sports and instruments with braces?
Yes. Teens can absolutely play sports and instruments with braces. For contact sports, we recommend a custom orthodontic mouthguard for protection. For wind and brass instrument players, there’s usually a short adjustment period, and many musicians find ceramic braces or wax helpful during that transition.
What’s the difference between metal and clear ceramic braces?
Metal braces use stainless steel brackets and are the most durable and budget-friendly option. Clear ceramic braces use tooth-colored brackets that blend in with the teeth for a more subtle appearance. Both straighten teeth effectively. Here’s a quick contrast:
- Metal braces: highly durable, lower cost, customizable with colored bands
- Clear ceramic braces: discreet, tooth-colored, slightly more delicate
The choice often comes down to personal style, lifestyle, and budget.
How does my teen care for braces during treatment?
Daily care includes brushing after every meal, flossing with orthodontic floss threaders or a water flosser, and avoiding sticky, hard, or chewy foods that can damage brackets. Foods like caramel, popcorn, hard candy, and gum are best avoided, while soft fruits, pasta, and yogurt are great choices. Regular adjustment visits every 4-8 weeks keep treatment on track. Our team gives every teen a clear care kit and instructions at the placement appointment.
Schedule Your Teen’s Free Braces Consultation
Ready to help your teen start working toward a healthy, confident smile? Shannon Orthodontics makes it easy to get started with a free consultation at our practice in Davenport, FL, which proudly serves families throughout Kissimmee, Celebration, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Poinciana, and Haines City.
Every treatment plan is built around your teen’s specific needs, goals, and lifestyle. Our orthodontists take the time to answer every question, walk through options, and make sure parents feel confident in the plan before anything begins.
Call us at 863-353-6867 or book online to schedule your complimentary new patient exam. We look forward to welcoming your family!