Orthodontics for teens

Braces and clear aligners for teens

The teen years are prime time for orthodontics. By about 12, most of the adult teeth are in, so crooked teeth, gaps and bite problems are easy to see. Kids this age are also still growing, which gives Dr. Salins something to work with.

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Teens also have opinions. Colors, clear versus metal, whether anyone at school will notice. We’re here for all of it.

Start with a free consult. Your teen gets an exam, you get a treatment plan, and nobody’s obligated to anything.

Prefer to talk? Call Union City (510) 475-4153 or South SF (650) 952-1010.

What’s the best age for braces?

There’s no single right age. A lot of teens start once most of their adult teeth have come in, which for many kids is around 12. Some kids had a round of early treatment when they were younger and are now ready for Phase II. Others are coming in for the first time. Dr. Salins will tell you if now is the right time or if waiting a bit would help.

Braces or aligners

Should my teen get braces or clear aligners?

Both can work well for teens. The question is which one fits your kid. Dr. Salins is honest about this. If he thinks aligners would end up in a lunch bag, he’ll say so, kindly.

Braces

Braces are always on, so nobody has to remember anything. They’re great for complex bites. Teens can choose metal braces with colored bands or clear braces that are harder to spot. Braces

Clear aligners

Aligners are nearly invisible and come out to eat, so there are no food rules. But they only work if they’re worn nearly all day, every day. They suit teens who are organized, or who have a parent willing to check. Our preferred brand is Angel Aligners. Clear aligners

Will braces get in the way of sports or music?

Usually, no. Teens with braces keep playing sports and instruments. For contact sports, wear a mouthguard; ask us which kind works with braces. For wind and brass instruments there’s often an adjustment period while lips get used to the brackets. It usually passes. Aligners can come out for games, as long as they go right back in.

Do braces hurt?

Teeth get a little sore at first, and again after some adjustments. It usually settles within a few days. Soft foods, an over-the-counter non-aspirin pain reliever if needed, and orthodontic wax for any spot that rubs all help. What to do if something breaks

How long will my teen be in treatment?

Our typical case takes about 24 months. Your teen’s could be shorter or longer. The things that help most: showing up to appointments, wearing elastics if they’re prescribed, and not treating hard candy as a personal challenge.

How much do braces for teens cost?

It depends on the case, so we’d rather give you a real number than a vague one online. We accept all PPO plans with orthodontic coverage, and many plans cover teens. For the rest, there are monthly payment plans. Insurance and payment plans

For parents

What’s in it for parents?

A specialist you can trust, and straight talk. Dr. Salins is board certified, trained at Harvard and UCLA, and he sees your teen at every appointment. He’ll explain the plan to you in plain English and to your kid in whatever language teenagers speak this week.

Our treatment coordinator can help you with scheduling, insurance and payments.

Dr. Salins jumping for joy in the office — smile crew!

Where can my teen be seen?

At either office. Both treat kids, teens and adults. The Union City office also serves Fremont. Let your teen pick the office if they want. It’s good practice for picking band colors.