Why You Should Start Orthodontic Treatment This New Year

Tailored Care, Maximum Comfort

Orthodontic technology has advanced to make both braces and aligners more comfortable than ever. Traditional braces are smaller and sleeker, while aligners are custom-designed for a snug fit. Starting treatment this New Year means taking advantage of these innovations to achieve a straighter smile with minimal discomfort on your journey.

1. Traditional Braces: Tried and True Results

For those with significant alignment issues, traditional braces are a powerful solution. Their fixed design ensures constant, effective pressure for faster, predictable results. Plus, they don’t rely on patient compliance, making them ideal for children and teens. Starting braces this New Year means you'll be well on your way to an improved smile by the holiday season.

2. Clear Aligners: A Modern Smile Solution

Clear aligners, like Invisalign®, offer a nearly invisible way to straighten teeth while letting you maintain your lifestyle. They’re removable, making it easy to eat your favorite foods and maintain good oral hygiene. By starting treatment now, you can enjoy the convenience and aesthetic benefits of aligners while progressing toward your dream smile.

3. Flexible Treatment Options for Your Needs

Starting orthodontic care this New Year lets you choose a method that fits your unique needs. Traditional braces provide robust correction for a wide range of dental issues, while clear aligners are perfect for those seeking a subtle, low-maintenance treatment option. With either choice, you'll be starting a journey toward better oral health and a confident smile.

4. See Progress All Year Long

Whether you opt for braces or clear aligners, starting your treatment at the beginning of the year ensures steady progress by year’s end. Traditional braces steadily align your teeth, while aligners work in stages that let you visualize improvements every few weeks. Both methods provide motivation to keep going and celebrate each milestone!

Did you know…

Orthodontic treatment not only straightens teeth but also reduces the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and jaw pain by correcting bite and alignment issues.

Ready to schedule your appointment?

Call (619) 449-8622

Choose Your Path Today

Brushing & Flossing Reminders

Teens are very independent, and should be able to take care of brushing and flossing on their own. They should brush twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste, and floss once per day to maintain a healthy smile. It can be helpful to remind your teen about brushing and flossing if they’re busy or distracted. You shouldn’t have to nag them, just make sure they’re not forgetting or neglecting their oral health.

Look Out For Signs Of Decay

If your teen is complaining about a sore tooth or a tooth that’s sensitive to heat, cold, the pressure of chewing, or sugary foods, this is a sign that they may be suffering from tooth decay. If your teen thinks they may have a cavity, we recommend scheduling an appointment with their dentist as soon as you can.

Look Out For Signs Of Misalignment

Your child will have all of their adult teeth by the age of 12 or 13, but their faces and jaws are still growing. This makes the pre-teen and teen years the ideal time for orthodontia. It’s easier to realign their smiles with orthodontic treatment like braces and Invisalign at this time.
‍
So be on the lookout for signs of misalignment that may indicate the need for orthodontic treatment. If your teen’s teeth are visibly crooked or crowded, or you notice an issue like an overbite or underbite, you should schedule an orthodontic consultation to explore your options for correcting their smile.

Focus On Good Nutrition

It’s harder to control your teen’s diet as they grow and become more independent, but do your best to encourage them to eat foods that are good for their teeth and their bodies. This includes fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, dairy like milk and yogurt, and whole grains. Try to reduce their consumption of sugary snacks like candy and cookies, soda, sweetened coffee and tea, and other such foods that can contribute to the development of cavities.

Traditional Braces vs. Clear Aligners

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form

 Friendly, Local Care

Rooted in Santee, we love caring for our community and brightening peoples’ days. We treat each patient like family and we’ll always go the extra mile to help you feel right at home!

 Advanced Technology

At Santee Dental Group, your comfort is at the heart of our care. That’s why we use best-in-class technology to secure the most gentle, relaxing, and efficient appointments.

 Personalized Services

Whether you’re looking to elevate your preventive care routine or need restorative solutions, we’ve got you covered with a full spectrum of services tailored just for you.

Have questions about teen dentistry? Find answers here.

What are common dental issues that teenagers face?

Cavities and gum disease are major concerns with teenagers. Teenagers make their own decisions about what they eat and drink, and they may be used to consuming sugary foods or beverages as snacks between classes or for extra energy throughout the day.
‍
This is also a time in life when experimenting with drugs and alcohol is common. Most smokers start in their teen years, and these new vices can increase their risk of oral health issues.
‍
Older teens can also experience issues with their wisdom teeth. They can begin to erupt as early as age 17, and may need to be removed if they’re not growing in properly. If your teen is suddenly complaining about jaw pain or headaches, this may be a sign that wisdom teeth are coming and you should consult with their doctor.

How can I help my teenager stay on track with their orthodontia?

If your teen is getting orthodontic treatment with braces, make sure that they stick to their dietary restrictions. Hard foods like popcorn kernels and sticky foods like gum or chewy candy can damage or dislodge their brackets, and delay their treatment.

Teens with Invisalign are responsible for wearing their aligners for at least 20-22 hours per day, so you may need to keep an eye on your teen and ensure they are wearing their aligners whenever possible. This will help keep their treatment on track.

‍

How can I help my teenager take better care of their teeth?

We recommend treating your teen like an adult. Let them know that taking care of their teeth now will ensure that their smile remains healthy, strong, and bright for years to come. But if they start neglecting their oral care, they can suffer from issues like teeth staining, gum disease, tooth decay, or even tooth loss, which could negatively affect their oral health, appearance, self-esteem, and checkbook.

You should also set a good example, and take proper care of your teeth by brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and seeing your dentist every six months for preventive care to keep your mouth healthy and strong as well.

‍

Santee Dental Group

Your Trusted Dentist In Santee, CA

(619) 449 - 8622

235 TOWN CENTER PKWY # D, CA 92071

Why You Should Start Orthodontic Treatment This New Year

Tailored Care, Maximum Comfort

1. Traditional Braces: Tried and True Results

2. Clear Aligners: A Modern Smile Solution

3. Flexible Treatment Options for Your Needs

4. See Progress All Year Long

Did you know…

Ready to schedule your appointment?

Choose Your Path Today

Brushing & Flossing Reminders

Look Out For Signs Of Decay

Look Out For Signs Of Misalignment

Focus On Good Nutrition

Traditional Braces vs. Clear Aligners

Can’t Call Right Now?

 Friendly, Local Care

 Advanced Technology

 Personalized Services

Have questions about teen dentistry? Find answers here.

What are common dental issues that teenagers face?

How can I help my teenager stay on track with their orthodontia?

How can I help my teenager take better care of their teeth?

Did you know…

Ready to schedule your appointment?

Let’s Stay in Touch

Connect with Us

Phone

hours

address

email