Teen Orthodontics · Ages 11–18
The teenage years are an especially efficient window for orthodontic treatment — bone responds quickly, jaw growth can be guided, and the result can last a lifetime. We design every plan around school, sport, and the social side of being a teenager.
Between roughly age eleven and seventeen, growing bone makes tooth movement faster and more predictable. Jaw growth is still active enough that some bite issues can be corrected without surgery. Most cases that are simple in a teenager become complex if delayed into adulthood.
Most teenagers do well with traditional metal or ceramic braces. Clear aligners (eg. Invisalign, Angel) are available where the patient is reliably going to wear them — we'll be honest with you about which option fits your child.
We provide mouthguards for braces patients playing contact sport. Wind instruments require a short adaptation period. Appointments are scheduled out of school hours where possible.
FAQs · Teen Orthodontics
It depends entirely on the bite and jaw growth — not the age. We see most teenagers for an initial assessment around age 11–12, and start active treatment when the timing is optimal for that individual. Sometimes that's straight away; sometimes it's six months later.
Most cases don't. Modern techniques and earlier planning mean we can usually create space without removing permanent teeth. Where extractions are needed, we'll explain exactly why before any decision is made.
Most teen cases run 18 to 24 months in active treatment, followed by retainers. Simpler cases can finish in under a year.
Other treatments
Modern orthodontic care for adults — discreet, efficient, results-led.
Learn moreEarly intervention from age seven to guide jaw growth and prevent complex treatment later.
Learn moreDiscreet, removable clear aligners — fitted and supervised by a specialist orthodontist.
Learn moreTooth-coloured ceramic brackets — almost invisible at a conversational distance.
Learn moreInside · Teen Orthodontics
Book a consult
An hour-long appointment with Dr Tom — all photos and x-rays, examination, every treatment option open to you, and a written quote to take home.
