Teenage Orthodontic Treatment 

Comprehensive orthodontics traditionally involves the placing of braces on all adult teeth to correct dental alignment, crowding and bite problems simultaneously. This method of treatment is usually the most time efficient and cost effective option.

Comprehensive treatment is usually undertaken between the ages of 11 and 15 years. This tends to be a great time to initiate this type of treatment, as children are usually undergoing a growth spurt and this can enhance orthodontic results significantly.

The traditional style of braces consists of small metal squares, called ‘brackets’, which are affixed to the outer surface of the teeth by means of specialised dental glue. The brackets are then joined together by an orthodontic wire, which produces light, gentle forces on the teeth. Over time these forces will move the teeth into the desired positions that the orthodontist has prescribed.

At Scope Orthodontics, we currently use the Damon self ligating brackets for most of our comprehensive orthodontic treatments. A great advantage to the Damon system brackets, is that the self ligating technology means they do not require coloured elastics to hold the wires to the teeth. These elastics tend to discolour quickly and may hinder good oral hygiene resulting in plaque build-up. In turn this can lead to gingivitis, enamel decalcification and tooth decay. Damon brackets are available in both metal and ceramic varieties. The ceramic brackets are more of a cosmetic option, and are almost invisible when placed on the teeth.

Teeth tend to move slowly through healthy bone, and so orthodontics does take time. Modern advances in techniques and materials, such as space age wires and low friction brackets, have made modern orthodontics quicker and more comfortable than ever before.