Quick Summary
The main teeth-straightening options for teenagers are traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces and removable clear aligners such as Invisalign. Metal braces can manage a wide range of tooth and bite problems without relying on the teen to remember daily wear. Ceramic braces work in a similar way but are less noticeable. Clear aligners are removable and discreet, but they must be worn consistently for about 22 hours per day.
The best choice depends on your teen’s bite, tooth position, oral hygiene, maturity, school activities, appearance preferences and treatment budget. An examination is needed before deciding which option is likely to work most predictably.
Parents searching for braces for teens often begin with one question: which type is best for my child?
The honest answer is that there is no single orthodontic option that is right for every teenager. One teen may benefit from fixed metal braces because several teeth need controlled movement. Another may be a suitable candidate for ceramic braces or Invisalign because the case is manageable and the teen can follow the daily instructions.
At Magnolia Dentistry, families can learn about orthodontic treatment in Burbank, including traditional braces, clear ceramic braces and Invisalign clear aligners. Dr. Liyan Massaband, DMD, MPH, evaluates the teeth, bite and oral health before explaining which options may be appropriate.
Why Do Some Teenagers Need Braces?
Braces and clear aligners are used to guide teeth into healthier positions and improve the way the upper and lower teeth meet.
A teenager may need an orthodontic evaluation because of:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Teeth that are rotated or out of position
- An overbite, underbite, crossbite or open bite
- Upper teeth that project forward
- Difficulty biting or chewing comfortably
- Uneven wear on certain teeth
- Teeth that are difficult to brush and floss around
- A permanent tooth that is blocked from erupting normally
- A bite that shifts when the teen closes their mouth
- A previous orthodontic result that has started to relapse
Not every crooked tooth creates an immediate health problem, and not every bite issue requires the same treatment. The purpose of an orthodontic evaluation is to understand what is happening, whether treatment is needed now and which approach can move the teeth safely.
What Is the Best Age for Teen Braces?
Many teenagers begin active orthodontic treatment after most permanent teeth have erupted. This often happens during the middle-school or high-school years, but there is no universal starting age.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an initial orthodontic evaluation by age seven. That does not mean every child needs braces at seven. An early evaluation can identify growth, eruption or bite problems that should be watched or treated at a particular stage.
Read the AAO guidance on when children should see an orthodontist.
For a teenager, the right treatment time depends on:
- Which permanent teeth have erupted
- Jaw growth and development
- The type and severity of the bite problem
- Gum health and cavity risk
- Whether any baby teeth remain
- The teen’s ability to care for braces or aligners
- School, sports and family scheduling
- Whether other dental treatment is needed first
Starting earlier is not always better. Starting at the stage when treatment can be completed predictably is more important than choosing a particular birthday.
What Types of Braces Are Available for Teens?
The three most relevant options for Magnolia Dentistry patients are metal braces, clear ceramic braces and Invisalign clear aligners.
Traditional Metal Braces for Teens
Metal braces use brackets attached to the teeth and an archwire that guides the teeth into new positions. Small elastic bands may be used to hold the wire in place or help correct the bite.
Metal braces are still widely used because they can provide controlled movement for simple and more involved orthodontic problems.
Metal braces may be a good choice when:
- The teen has moderate or severe crowding
- Several teeth need rotation or vertical movement
- A significant bite correction is required
- The treatment should not depend on remembering to wear removable trays
- The family wants a fixed and often more economical option
- The teen likes choosing different elastic-band colors
Points to consider:
- The brackets and wires are visible
- Hard and sticky foods can damage the appliance
- Brushing and flossing require extra attention
- Brackets or wires can occasionally irritate the lips and cheeks
- Broken brackets may delay treatment if they are not repaired
Modern metal brackets are generally smaller than older designs, but they remain the most noticeable option.
Clear Ceramic Braces for Teens
Ceramic braces work in a similar way to metal braces, but the brackets are clear or tooth-colored. This makes them less visible from a normal speaking distance.
Ceramic braces may suit a teen who:
- Wants fixed braces with a less noticeable appearance
- Needs tooth movements that may be difficult with removable aligners
- Can maintain careful oral hygiene
- Understands that the appliance is still visible at close range
Points to consider:
- Ceramic brackets can be more fragile than metal brackets
- Some components or elastic ties may discolor between visits
- Treatment may cost more than standard metal braces
- The brackets may feel slightly larger
- They may not be recommended for every lower-tooth or high-bite-pressure situation
Ceramic braces are not invisible, but they can provide a middle option between metal braces and clear aligners.
Invisalign and Clear Aligners for Teens
Clear aligners are removable plastic trays made to fit over the teeth. Each set applies planned pressure, and the teen changes to a new set according to the treatment schedule.
The American Association of Orthodontists explains that aligners generally need to be worn for at least 22 hours each day. They should be removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing and flossing.
Learn more about clear aligner treatment from the AAO and visit Magnolia Dentistry’s page for Invisalign in Burbank.
Clear aligners may suit a teen who:
- Wants a less visible treatment
- Can remember to wear the trays as directed
- Will remove them before eating
- Will brush before putting them back in
- Can keep track of the aligner case
- Has a tooth and bite problem suitable for aligner treatment
- Plays sports or an instrument and prefers a removable appliance
Points to consider:
- Aligners do not work while they are out of the mouth
- Lost or damaged trays can interrupt progress
- Attachments may be placed on some teeth and can be visible
- Some bite problems are treated more predictably with fixed braces
- The teen must clean both the teeth and aligners consistently
- New aligners can cause temporary pressure or tenderness
A teen who often loses school items, forgets routines or removes the trays for long periods may achieve a more predictable result with fixed braces.
For practical tray handling, see how to remove clear aligners correctly.
What About Lingual Braces?
Lingual braces are placed on the tongue side of the teeth, which makes them less visible from the front. They are not a routine option in every dental office and may require care from a provider with specific training and equipment.
They can also cost more, be harder to clean and cause a longer tongue or speech adjustment period.
Magnolia Dentistry’s current orthodontic service information focuses on metal braces, ceramic braces and Invisalign. Families interested in lingual braces should ask whether the option is available or whether a specialist referral would be needed.
Metal Braces vs Ceramic Braces vs Invisalign for Teens
| Feature | Metal Braces | Ceramic Braces | Invisalign or Clear Aligners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Most noticeable | Less noticeable | Least noticeable in many situations |
| Removable | No | No | Yes |
| Daily compliance | Low, because they stay attached | Low, because they stay attached | High, because trays must be worn as directed |
| Food restrictions | Yes | Yes | No appliance-related restrictions when trays are removed |
| Cleaning | Requires cleaning around brackets and wires | Requires careful cleaning around brackets | Teeth and trays must both be cleaned |
| Complex movements | Often a strong option | Can treat many of the same cases | Suitability depends on the planned movement |
| Sports | Orthodontic mouthguard recommended | Orthodontic mouthguard recommended | Trays are usually removed for contact sports and a mouthguard is worn |
| Appearance | Can be customized with colored bands | Tooth-colored or clear brackets | Clear trays, although attachments may be visible |
| Risk of losing appliance | Very low | Very low | Higher because trays are removable |
| Typical cost | Often the lowest fixed option | Often higher than metal braces | Depends on case and provider |
| Best fit | Teens who need fixed control or may forget aligners | Teens wanting less visible fixed braces | Responsible teens who prefer removable treatment |
This table is a general comparison. The clinical examination determines which options are suitable for the individual teen.
Braces or Invisalign: Which Is Better for a Teenager?
Neither option is automatically better. The more useful question is which option gives your teen the best chance of completing treatment correctly.
Fixed braces may be the better choice when:
- The teen is unlikely to wear aligners consistently
- The case requires complex tooth movement
- There is significant crowding or bite correction
- The teen does not want responsibility for removable trays
- Aligners would frequently be removed for snacking or school activities
- A fixed appliance offers better control for the treatment goal
Clear aligners may be a good choice when:
- The case is suitable for aligner treatment
- Appearance is a major concern
- The teen is responsible with daily routines
- The teen can wear the trays for the prescribed time
- The teen wants to eat without fixed-appliance restrictions
- Easy brushing and flossing are important priorities
- The teen participates in activities where a removable appliance is useful
Parents should be realistic about compliance. Choosing aligners because they look better will not help if the trays are regularly left in a backpack, lunch tray or bedroom.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment for Teens Work?
The exact process depends on whether the teen receives braces or aligners, but most treatment plans follow similar stages.
1. Dental and Bite Evaluation
The provider examines:
- Tooth position
- Upper and lower bite relationship
- Gum health
- Existing cavities or fillings
- Eruption of permanent teeth
- Jaw movement
- Facial and smile balance
- Oral hygiene
- Signs of clenching or grinding
Records may include photographs, dental X-rays and a digital scan when needed.
2. Treatment Planning
The family receives an explanation of:
- The orthodontic problem
- Suitable treatment choices
- Expected tooth movements
- Estimated treatment length
- Appointment schedule
- Home-care responsibilities
- Cost and payment options
- Retainer needs after treatment
A responsible provider should also explain why an option may not be appropriate.
3. Braces Placement or Aligner Delivery
For braces, brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected with an archwire.
For clear aligners, the teen receives the first trays and instructions about:
- Daily wear
- Insertion and removal
- Cleaning
- Eating and drinking
- Changing trays
- Lost or damaged aligners
- What to do if an attachment comes off
4. Progress Visits
Progress appointments allow the provider to:
- Check tooth movement
- Adjust wires or elastics
- Provide new aligners
- Review hygiene
- Repair damaged appliances
- Update instructions
- Confirm that the bite is developing as planned
Appointment intervals vary by treatment. Some patients are seen every four to ten weeks depending on the appliance and stage of care.
5. Retainer Phase
Teeth naturally tend to shift after orthodontic treatment. Retainers help hold them in their new positions while the surrounding bone and tissues adapt.
The AAO states that everyone completing orthodontic treatment should use a retainer as directed. Read the AAO guide to orthodontic retainers.
A retainer plan may involve:
- Full-time wear at first
- Nighttime wear later
- A clear removable retainer
- A bonded wire behind selected teeth
- A combination of fixed and removable retention
Parents should think of retainers as part of treatment, not as an optional extra after braces are removed.
How Long Do Teen Braces Take?
Many teen orthodontic cases take approximately 12 to 30 months, but treatment can be shorter or longer.
Treatment time depends on:
- The type of tooth movement needed
- The severity of crowding or spacing
- Bite correction
- Jaw growth
- Whether permanent teeth have erupted
- Broken brackets
- Missed visits
- Aligner wear
- Elastic wear
- Oral hygiene
- Biological response to treatment
The original article used fixed treatment ranges for each appliance. That can create unrealistic expectations. A teen with a mild spacing problem may finish earlier than a teen with the same appliance who needs major bite correction.
The most useful timeline is the estimate given after reviewing the teen’s records.
Do Braces Hurt?
Braces should not cause constant severe pain, but pressure and tenderness are common when treatment begins and after some adjustment visits.
During the first few days, a teen may notice:
- Tenderness when biting
- Pressure on certain teeth
- Irritation from a bracket or wire
- A different feeling when speaking or chewing
- Mild discomfort after changing aligners
Helpful steps may include:
- Soft food for a few days
- Orthodontic wax over an irritating bracket
- A warm saltwater rinse
- Cold water or a cool compress
- Pain relief recommended by the teen’s dentist or physician
Contact the dental office if a wire is cutting the cheek, a bracket has broken, swelling appears or pain is severe and does not improve.
What Can Teens Eat With Braces?
Fixed braces require some food changes to protect the brackets and wires.
Foods commonly avoided include:
- Hard candy
- Chewing gum
- Caramel and sticky sweets
- Popcorn
- Ice
- Whole hard nuts
- Crunchy pizza crust
- Hard pretzels
- Biting directly into hard apples or raw carrots
Apples, carrots and similar foods may still be eaten when cut into small pieces.
Softer choices after an adjustment include:
- Yogurt
- Eggs
- Pasta
- Soup
- Soft rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Bananas
- Soft cooked vegetables
- Fish
- Smoothies that are not excessively sugary
The AAO provides a detailed guide on foods to eat and avoid with braces.
Clear aligners are removed for meals, but the teen should brush or rinse before reinserting them. Food and sugary drinks trapped under aligners can increase plaque exposure.
How Should a Teen Clean Teeth With Braces?
Brackets and wires create areas where food and plaque can collect. Daily cleaning is essential for protecting the enamel and gums.
A teen with braces should:
- Brush carefully around the gumline, brackets and wires
- Brush after meals when possible
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between the teeth every day
- Use floss threaders, orthodontic floss or interdental brushes as instructed
- Check for missed plaque around brackets
- Limit frequent sugary snacks and drinks
- Attend regular dental cleaning appointments
Orthodontic visits do not replace routine dental care. Magnolia Dentistry’s dental cleaning and prevention service can help monitor plaque, gum inflammation and enamel changes during treatment.
White marks around brackets are not caused by braces themselves. They can develop when plaque remains against the enamel for long periods.
Can Teens Play Sports With Braces?
Yes. Teens can continue playing sports during orthodontic treatment.
A properly fitted orthodontic mouthguard helps protect:
- Teeth
- Brackets
- Wires
- Lips
- Cheeks
- Gums
A standard tight-fitting mouthguard may not allow enough room for teeth to move. Ask the dental provider which type is suitable for braces.
The American Dental Association explains that a mouthguard can provide a barrier between braces and the lips or cheeks during an impact. Read the ADA mouthguard guidance.
Clear aligners and removable retainers should generally be taken out during contact sports and stored safely. The teen should then wear an appropriate sports mouthguard.
Can Teens Play Musical Instruments With Braces?
Most teens can continue playing wind and brass instruments with braces.
There may be a short adjustment period because brackets change how the lips rest against the mouthpiece. Helpful steps include:
- Starting with shorter practice sessions
- Using orthodontic wax over irritating brackets
- Practicing slowly while the mouth adjusts
- Cleaning the teeth and appliance after playing
- Asking the music teacher for technique adjustments
Lingual braces can affect tongue contact more than front-facing braces. Clear aligners may need to be removed depending on the instrument and provider instructions.
How Much Do Braces Cost for Teens?
The cost of teen braces depends on:
- Metal, ceramic or clear aligner treatment
- Case complexity
- Treatment length
- Records and imaging
- Number of visits
- Replacement of lost aligners
- Retainers
- Insurance coverage
- Whether specialist care is required
Metal braces are often the lowest-cost option, while ceramic brackets and aligners may cost more. This is not universal, and families should compare complete treatment fees rather than the appliance name alone.
For a deeper cost explanation, read how much braces cost without insurance.
Before starting, ask whether the written estimate includes:
- Examination and records
- Braces or aligners
- Adjustment appointments
- Emergency repairs
- Refinement aligners
- Retainers
- Replacement retainers
- Financing charges
Does Dental Insurance Cover Teen Braces?
Some dental plans include orthodontic benefits for dependent children, while others exclude orthodontics or provide a lifetime maximum.
Important details include:
- Age limits
- Waiting periods
- Lifetime orthodontic maximum
- Percentage covered
- In-network and out-of-network rules
- Whether clear aligners are treated differently
- Whether treatment already in progress is eligible
- How benefits are paid during treatment
Magnolia Dentistry can review available plan information, but insurance verification is not a guarantee of payment.
Read the practice’s guide to insurance for orthodontic treatment.
Questions Parents Should Ask Before Choosing Teen Braces
Bring these questions to the consultation:
- What tooth and bite problems need treatment?
- Does treatment need to start now?
- Which options are suitable for this case?
- Why is one option preferred over another?
- What happens if we delay treatment?
- How long is treatment expected to take?
- How often will appointments be needed?
- What happens if a bracket breaks?
- What happens if an aligner is lost?
- Will elastics be required?
- How will sports or musical instruments be managed?
- What does the complete fee include?
- Are retainers included?
- What type of retainer will be needed?
- Who will manage the treatment?
- When would a specialist referral be recommended?
These questions help families compare more than appearance and monthly price.
Why Burbank Families Choose Magnolia Dentistry for Teen Orthodontic Care
Magnolia Dentistry provides dental and orthodontic care at one Burbank office. This can make it easier to coordinate braces or aligners with regular cleanings, fillings, gum care and future cosmetic treatment.
Families can discuss:
- Traditional metal braces
- Clear ceramic braces
- Invisalign clear aligners
- Oral health before treatment
- Cleaning during treatment
- Bite and alignment concerns
- Retainer planning
- Insurance benefits
- Payment options
Dr. Liyan Massaband, DMD, MPH, is a general dentist who provides orthodontic treatment at Magnolia Dentistry. Learn more about Dr. Massaband and the practice.
If a teen has a case that would benefit from specialist orthodontic management, the family should be told and referred when appropriate.
Schedule a Teen Braces Consultation in Burbank
Choosing braces is a family decision, but the teen’s cooperation plays a major role in treatment.
A consultation allows the dentist to examine the bite, review suitable options and explain what the teen will need to do at home.
Magnolia Dentistry 2800 W Magnolia Blvd Burbank, CA 91505
Phone: (818) 846-9041
Schedule an orthodontic consultation to compare braces and clear aligners for your teenager.
Frequently Asked Questions About Braces for Teens
What is the best age for a teenager to get braces?
There is no single best age. Many teens begin treatment after most permanent teeth have erupted, but timing depends on the bite, tooth eruption and growth. The AAO recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation by age seven so developing problems can be identified early.
Are metal braces or ceramic braces better for teens?
Metal braces are durable, fixed and often less expensive. Ceramic braces are less noticeable but may be more fragile and require careful cleaning. The better option depends on the teen’s bite, appearance preferences, habits and budget.
Is Invisalign a good option for teenagers?
Invisalign can be a good option for a responsible teen whose tooth and bite problem is suitable for aligners. The trays generally need to be worn for about 22 hours per day. Fixed braces may be more predictable when daily compliance is uncertain or the case requires different tooth control.
Are clear aligners faster than braces?
Not necessarily. Treatment time depends more on the required tooth movements, bite correction and cooperation than on whether the teen wears braces or aligners.
How long do teen braces take?
Many cases take around 12 to 30 months, but mild cases may finish sooner and complex cases may take longer. Missed appointments, broken appliances and inconsistent aligner or elastic wear can extend treatment.
Will braces hurt?
Temporary pressure or tenderness is common when braces are placed, adjusted or when a new aligner is started. Severe or persistent pain should be reported to the dental office.
Can a teen eat normally with braces?
Most foods are still possible, but hard, sticky and chewy foods can damage fixed braces. Food should sometimes be cut into smaller pieces rather than bitten directly with the front teeth.
Can teens play sports with braces?
Yes. A properly fitted orthodontic mouthguard is recommended for contact and collision sports. Clear aligners and removable retainers should be removed during contact sports.
Can teens play instruments while wearing braces?
Yes. Most teens adjust after a short period. Orthodontic wax and shorter practice sessions can help during the first few days.
What happens if a bracket breaks?
Contact the dental office for instructions. Do not pull the bracket or cut a wire without guidance unless the team has told you how to manage an urgent situation.
What happens if an Invisalign tray is lost?
Contact the provider. The teen may be told to wear the previous tray, move to the next tray or order a replacement depending on the treatment stage. Do not guess without instructions.
Does my teen still need dental cleanings during braces?
Yes. Orthodontic appointments do not replace dental examinations and cleanings. Teeth and gums need to remain healthy throughout treatment.
Will my teenager need a retainer after braces?
Yes. Retainers help reduce movement after braces or aligners. The type and wear schedule depend on the treatment result and provider instructions.
Can wisdom teeth make braces results move?
Teeth can shift for several reasons throughout life. Consistent retainer wear is more important for maintaining alignment than assuming wisdom teeth alone will cause crowding. Read more about how wisdom teeth may affect braces.
How much do braces for teens cost in Burbank?
Cost depends on the appliance, treatment complexity, length, insurance benefits and what is included in the treatment fee. Magnolia Dentistry can provide a written estimate after evaluating the teen’s teeth and bite.
