Teeth Straightening for Teenagers in Kent WA
Helping Adolescents Achieve Confident, Healthy Smiles
The middle-school and early high-school years are the most common time for orthodontic treatment, and for good reason. Between ages 11 and 15, most children have all or nearly all their permanent teeth, making this an ideal window to correct alignment concerns, guide facial growth, and create a strong foundation for lifelong oral health. At this age, teens are also more aware of their appearance and motivated to improve their smile, which leads to better cooperation and excellent results.
At Advanced Orthodontics in Kent, WA, we combine expertise with advanced technology, including SureSmile®, to deliver faster, more comfortable, and highly personalized treatment for adolescents. Whether your teen needs braces or a digitally guided treatment plan, our goal is to make the experience positive, efficient, and rewarding from start to finish.
Why Ages 11–15 Are Ideal for Orthodontic Treatment
Around age 12, most children have all of their permanent teeth. This makes it easier to identify bite issues, spacing concerns, crowding, or misalignment that may not have been noticeable when baby teeth were still present.
Several factors make this age range ideal:
- Permanent teeth are fully erupted and ready for precise correction.
- The jaw is still growing, making orthodontic adjustments easier and more efficient.
- Teens are socially motivated, many of their peers are also beginning treatment, so braces feel more normal and accepted.
- Early intervention prevents problems from becoming more complex later.
Many alignment and bite issues do not correct themselves, which is why parents often seek an orthodontic evaluation during these years.
Why Teens Are Motivated to Improve Their Smiles
Adolescents often become more aware of how their smile affects their confidence, especially as they enter middle and high school. They may notice:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Gaps or spacing
- Bite issues affecting chewing or speaking
- Discomfort or self-consciousness in photos
At this stage, they’re typically eager to begin treatment — and even more excited to finish and show off their new smile.
Faster Treatment With SureSmile for Teens
What Makes SureSmile a Smart Choice for Teens?
Teens want results, and they want them quickly. That’s why our practice uses SureSmile, an advanced orthodontic technology that helps adolescents complete treatment 25–40% faster than with traditional methods.
SureSmile uses:
- 3D digital scans
- Precision treatment planning
- Robotically bent archwires customized for each teen
This technology guides teeth along the most direct, efficient path, reducing treatment time while increasing accuracy.
What Teens Love About SureSmile:
- Shorter treatment time
- Fewer office visits
- Less discomfort from adjustments
- Predictable, beautifully crafted results
Parents appreciate the efficiency. Teens appreciate the speed. And everyone loves the outcome.
What Problems Can Teen Orthodontics Correct?
Orthodontic treatment during adolescence can address a wide range of dental and skeletal concerns, including:
- Overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- Crowding or spacing
- Misaligned teeth
- Jaw growth discrepancies
- Early wear on teeth from improper bite alignment
Correcting these issues early not only improves appearance but it also protects oral health for decades to come.
What to Expect During Your Teen’s Orthodontic Journey?
We make the process simple, predictable, and as enjoyable as possible.
Your teen’s initial experience includes:
- A complimentary consultation
- A digital exam and discussion of concerns
- A personalized treatment plan, including timeline and options
- An overview of SureSmile or braces, depending on your teen’s needs
We encourage parents and teens to ask questions at every step. Our goal is to create a smile your teen will love, and ensure they feel confident and supported throughout the process.
Ready to Find the Best Time to Start Treatment?
Every child grows at their own pace, and the right time for treatment depends on each teen’s unique needs. If you’re wondering whether now is the ideal moment to begin orthodontic care, we’re here to help.
Call Advanced Orthodontics today to schedule your FREE consultation and discover the treatment plan that will help your teen achieve a healthy, confident smile, faster and more comfortably than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Parents and Teens Want to Know About Orthodontic Treatment
Starting orthodontic care during the teen years is exciting, but it also brings up plenty of questions for families. Below, you’ll find helpful, easy-to-understand answers to common questions parents and teens ask when planning treatment.
How do I know if my teen genuinely needs orthodontic treatment?
If you notice crooked teeth, spacing issues, or bite problems, those are clear signs. But many orthodontic concerns are harder to see at home. A professional evaluation helps identify hidden issues like jaw alignment, bite imbalances, or crowding that could lead to long-term problems if left untreated. A consultation gives you clarity on whether treatment is needed and when the ideal time to start might be.
What orthodontic options are available for teens today?
Teens have more choices than ever. Depending on their needs, they may be candidates for:
- Traditional braces
- Clear or ceramic braces
- SureSmile-enhanced treatment (faster and more precise)
- Clear aligners (in certain cases)
Your orthodontist will review which options fit your teen’s smile, growth stage, and lifestyle.
How often will my teen need appointments?
Most teens visit the office every 6–10 weeks, depending on their treatment plan. SureSmile often reduces the number of overall visits. These appointments help us track progress, make adjustments, and ensure everything stays on schedule.
How long does orthodontic treatment usually take for teens?
Treatment time varies based on your teen’s bite, tooth alignment, and growth pattern. On average, teen treatment ranges from 12–24 months, and SureSmile can shorten that timeline significantly. Your orthodontist will share a customized estimate during your consultation.
Do teens still need to see their dentist during orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Regular cleanings and checkups are essential for keeping teeth healthy while wearing braces. Good oral hygiene helps prevent cavities and keeps treatment moving smoothly, especially since food can get trapped more easily around brackets and wires.