Braces straighten a teen’s crowded or gapped teeth while the jaw is still growing. This often makes treatment more efficient. Efros Orthodontics provides braces for teens at our Bennington office. We see teenagers from Bennington, Shaftsbury, Pownal and Arlington for this care. Most plans run 12 to 30 months depending on the bite, and every plan starts with a digital scan instead of messy impressions.
Why Teens Often Need Braces
The teenage years line up with a useful window. Most permanent teeth have come in, but the jaw still has some growth left. Moving teeth into place tends to go faster than later.
Problems Braces Fix at This Age
Braces address crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites and teeth that do not meet evenly. These problems tend to get harder and more expensive to fix the longer they are left alone.
Braces Types Teens Can Choose
Teens at our Bennington office usually pick between traditional metal braces and ceramic braces with tooth-colored brackets. Both move teeth the same way. The difference is mostly visibility and personal preference. Some teens are also candidates for Invisalign for teens, though that depends on the bite.
| Option | Visibility | Typical fit |
|---|---|---|
| Metal braces | Visible, can add colored bands | Most bite corrections |
| Ceramic braces | Tooth-colored, less visible | Teens wanting a discreet look |
| Invisalign for teens | Clear, removable | Mild to moderate cases, consistent wear |
We go over the full list of braces options during the first visit so the choice fits daily life, not just the bite.
How Long Teen Treatment Takes
Most teens wear braces for 12 to 30 months, with adjustment visits about every 4 to 6 weeks. Each visit usually takes around 20 minutes.
What Happens at Adjustment Visits
We check progress, tighten or swap wires, and look for any loose brackets. If a bracket breaks between visits, we handle emergency repairs so treatment stays on track.
Foods Teens Should Avoid With Braces
Sticky candy, popcorn kernels, hard nuts and ice can damage brackets and wires. Brushing after meals and flossing with a threader keeps gums healthy around the hardware.
How an Orthodontic Scan Works
Every plan starts with an iTero digital scan. This handheld wand builds a 3D model of the teeth in minutes. We also take digital panoramic and cephalometric X-rays. There is no putty or tray involved, which most teens appreciate. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic check by age 7, though braces placement usually comes later.
Finding Braces for Teens Near Bennington
Our Bennington office sits at 211 School Street, Bennington, VT 05201. We are open Monday through Thursday 8:00am to 5:00pm and Friday 7:30am to 3:00pm. Families travel from Shaftsbury, Pownal, Arlington, Hoosick Falls NY, Williamstown MA and North Adams MA. This office serves patients across three states without a drive to Albany or Burlington. Our doctors see teens and younger children alike, including options for braces for kids when treatment starts earlier.
A free consultation at our Bennington office includes X-rays, a digital scan and a walkthrough of options. We offer 0% interest payment plans with payments as low as $99 a month in some cases. We are also in-network with most major insurance plans. You can schedule a free consultation to see what fits.
Braces for Teens questions from Bennington patients
What age do most teens start braces?
Most teens start once enough permanent teeth have come in. This lets us assess the bite accurately.
Can braces be removed before sports or band practice?
No, braces are fixed to the teeth for the full treatment period. Teens wear a mouthguard for contact sports. They generally adapt to instruments within a week or two.
Will a retainer be needed after braces come off?
Yes, a retainer holds teeth in their new position once braces are removed. We fit and provide retainers as part of finishing treatment.
What if a bracket breaks between appointments?
Call the office and we will schedule an emergency repair visit rather than waiting for the next regular adjustment. Loose brackets and poking wires should not be left untreated.
