Thousands of teenagers in the UK undergo orthodontic treatment every year to correct alignment issues and improve the aesthetic of the smile, but what’s the deal with braces, what do they do and are they really worth the hassle?

About teen braces

Teenagers are often advised to have orthodontic treatment because issues get worse with time ad often, treatment is effective at a younger age. Many adults are now choosing to have treatment later on, but treatment times are usually longer and the results may not be quite as impressive.

The main issues addressed by orthodontic treatment include crowding, spaces between the teeth, crooked teeth, underbite and overbite. Often, these issues are visible from an early age and it’s usually best to intervene around the ages of 13-15 years old. Early treatment produces great results and ensures teenagers are able to enjoy a new smile and increased confidence as early as possible.

How do braces work?

The most common type of brace used to treat teenagers is a traditional fixed brace, which works by using forces created by brackets and wires to reposition and realign the teeth. The braces support and hold the teeth, as well as putting pressure on them to move. The result is a beautifully straight smile. Fixed braces usually take between 6 and 24 months to work, depending on the complexity of the individual prescription. There are also other types of brace available, including removable aligners and Incognito lingual braces, which offer a discreet alternative to traditional fixed braces.

Are braces really worth the hassle?

Braces may seem like a lot of hassle, but the results are really impressive and they can really make a difference to the look of the smile, as well as your confidence. Your smile is one of your most noticeable features and it’s a shame to go through life hiding it away because you’ve got crooked or wonky teeth. With modern braces, pain is kept to a minimum, treatment times are faster than ever and braces are much more discreet than they used to be. Many adult patients regret not having treatment at an earlier age and would strongly recommend getting braces out of the way early on and enjoying many more years of having a stunning smile.