Crowded Teeth
Teeth may overlap, twist, or compete for space.
Braces for Teens
Give Your Teen a Smile They Can Feel Confident About.
Braces can help straighten crooked teeth, improve bite problems, and create a healthier-looking smile during the teen years.
At Ignite Orthodontics, orthodontics is all we do. Your teen's treatment is planned and monitored by board-certified orthodontists who understand that orthodontic treatment isn't just about moving teeth; it's about making the experience work for your teen's everyday life.
- Free consultations
- Flexible financing
- Insurance accepted
Flexible monthly payments
Braces from $99/month*
*Monthly payment depends on treatment, insurance coverage, and payment arrangement.
Is It Time?
Your Teen's Smile Is Changing. This Is a Good Time to Check In.
The teenage years are when a lot changes.
School. Friends. Sports. Photos. Prom. Graduation. Confidence.
It's also an important time to pay attention to your teen's teeth and bite.
Maybe you've noticed:
- Teeth that are crowded or overlapping
- Large spaces between teeth
- Teeth that stick out
- An overbite or underbite
- A crossbite
- Crooked teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Your teen becoming self-conscious about their smile
You may be wondering whether now is the right time for braces. A consultation can give you the answers.
At Ignite Orthodontics, we'll evaluate your teen's teeth and bite, explain what we see, and walk you through the treatment options that may be appropriate.
More Than a Straighter Smile
Orthodontics for Teens Isn't Just About a Straighter Smile
For parents, orthodontic treatment can feel like a medical decision.
For teens, it can feel much more personal.
They may be thinking:
- "Will everyone notice my braces?"
- "Will I look different in pictures?"
- "Can I still play sports?"
- "What if my friends make fun of me?"
- "How long will I have to wear them?"
Those concerns matter.
That's why our approach is about more than simply putting braces on your teen's teeth. We want them to understand their treatment, feel comfortable asking questions, and know what to expect along the way.
Signs to Look For
What Are the Signs Your Teen May Need Braces?
Not every orthodontic problem is obvious.
Some signs that your teen may benefit from an orthodontic evaluation include:
Gaps Between Teeth
Spaces can develop between teeth for several reasons and may be addressed through orthodontic treatment.
Overbite
The upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth.
Underbite
The lower teeth extend in front of the upper teeth.
Crossbite
Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
Crooked or Misaligned Teeth
Teeth may not line up properly even when there isn't obvious crowding.
Bite or Chewing Problems
The way your teen's upper and lower teeth come together can affect how they bite and chew.
The only way to know whether your teen needs orthodontic treatment is to have their teeth and bite evaluated by an orthodontist.
Your First Visit
What Happens at a Teen Orthodontic Consultation?
We keep the first step simple.
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01
We Get to Know Your Teen
We'll talk about their smile, concerns, goals, and what brought you to Ignite.
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02
We Evaluate Their Teeth and Bite
An orthodontic evaluation helps us understand how the teeth and jaws are developing and whether treatment may be appropriate.
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03
We Explain the Options
If orthodontic treatment is recommended, we'll explain the options available for your teen and why a particular approach may be appropriate.
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04
We Discuss Timing
Not every teen needs treatment immediately. We'll explain whether now is the right time to begin based on their individual situation.
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05
We Explain the Financial Options
We'll walk you through insurance, financing, and out-of-pocket payment options so you understand what treatment may cost.
No pressure. No confusing orthodontic terminology. Just a clear conversation about your teen's smile.
Treatment Options
What Braces Options Are Available for Teens?
Today's teens have more than one way to straighten their teeth.
Depending on your teen's orthodontic needs, options may include:
Traditional Metal Braces
A tried-and-true fixed orthodontic option using brackets and wires to gradually move the teeth.
Learn About Traditional BracesCeramic Braces
Tooth-colored or clear brackets provide a more discreet appearance while remaining fixed to the teeth.
Learn About Ceramic BracesInvisalign
Clear, removable aligners that offer a discreet alternative to traditional braces for patients who are appropriate candidates.
Learn About InvisalignYour teen doesn't need to decide which treatment they want before their consultation.
We'll help you understand which options may be appropriate for their smile.
Life With Braces
Braces Should Fit Into Your Teen's Life
Orthodontic treatment is a commitment, but your teen's life doesn't stop because they have braces.
They can still:
Play Sports
Teens who participate in sports can discuss appropriate orthodontic protection and care with their orthodontist.
Take Photos
Braces are part of the journey. Many teens also choose braces colors as a way to personalize their look.
Go to School
Braces don't prevent your teen from attending school, participating in activities, or spending time with friends.
Enjoy Their Favorite Foods With Some Changes
Your orthodontic team will explain which foods to avoid and how to care for braces properly.
Keep Up With Their Routine
Regular brushing, flossing, and orthodontic appointments are important throughout treatment.
Personal Style
Let Them Make Their Braces Their Own
For some teens, braces are something they want to minimize.
For others, they're an opportunity to express themselves.
With traditional braces, teens can often choose colors for their elastic ties during adjustment visits.
Whether they want subtle colors, school colors, or something completely different, their smile journey can feel like theirs.
Treatment Time
How Long Will My Teen Need Braces?
There's no single treatment timeline for every teenager.
Treatment length depends on factors such as:
- The orthodontic problems being treated
- The complexity of the case
- How your teen's teeth respond to treatment
- Following orthodontic instructions
- Keeping scheduled appointments
- Taking proper care of braces
During your consultation, the orthodontist can discuss the expected treatment timeline for your teen.
How Much Do Braces for Teens Cost?
Braces From $99/Month
We know orthodontic treatment is a significant investment for many families.
That's why Ignite Orthodontics offers flexible ways to pay.
Insurance
We accept insurance and can help you understand how your orthodontic benefits may apply.
Financing
Flexible financing options may be available to spread payments over time.
Out-of-Pocket
We'll explain your payment options so you can choose the arrangement that works for your family.
Subject to approval. Your actual monthly payment and total treatment cost depend on your teen's treatment plan, insurance coverage, and payment arrangement.
Start with a free consultation to understand your options.
Why Families Choose Ignite Orthodontics
Orthodontics. Nothing Else.
When your teen starts orthodontic treatment, you want a team that understands orthodontics, not a practice where orthodontics is just one of many services.
That's Ignite.
Board-Certified Orthodontists
Your teen's treatment is planned and monitored by board-certified orthodontists.
Teen-Friendly Care
We understand that teenagers have different concerns, questions, and priorities. We want them to feel comfortable throughout treatment.
Multiple Treatment Options
Depending on your teen's needs, treatment options may include traditional braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign.
Flexible Payment Options
Insurance, financing, and out-of-pocket payment options are available.
Convenient Appointments
Evening and weekend appointments may be available to make orthodontic visits easier to fit around school and family schedules.
Multiple Locations
Choose an Ignite Orthodontics location that works for your family.
No Referral Required
You can schedule a consultation directly with our team.
FAQ
What Parents Want to Know
Still have a question? Our team is happy to help.
Will braces hurt my teen?
Your teen may experience some pressure, tenderness, or discomfort when braces are placed or adjusted. This is typically temporary. Your orthodontic team will explain what to expect and how to manage it.
Can my teen play sports with braces?
Yes. Teens can generally continue participating in sports while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist can recommend appropriate protection and provide activity-specific guidance.
Can my teen get Invisalign instead of braces?
Invisalign may be an option for some teens. Whether it's appropriate depends on your teen's teeth, bite, treatment needs, and ability to follow the aligner wear instructions.
What if my teen doesn't want braces?
That's a common concern.
The best first step is a conversation, not pressure.
A consultation gives your teen the opportunity to ask questions, understand their options, and learn what treatment would actually involve.
How often will my teen need orthodontic appointments?
Your orthodontist will establish an appointment schedule based on your teen's treatment plan and progress.
Does my teen need to see a dentist before seeing an orthodontist?
Your teen should continue regular dental checkups during orthodontic treatment. If there are existing dental concerns that need attention, your orthodontic team can discuss the appropriate next step.
Does my teen need a referral?
No. A referral is not required to schedule a consultation with Ignite Orthodontics.
Can braces be placed on the same day as the consultation?
Same-day treatment may be possible for eligible patients depending on individual circumstances and appointment availability. Ask our team when scheduling.
Schedule Your Teen's Free Consultation
Your Teen's Smile Starts With One Conversation
You don't need to know which braces your teen needs.
You don't need to know how long treatment will take.
And you don't need to have everything figured out before you call.
That's what the consultation is for. We'll evaluate your teen's smile, answer your questions, explain the available options, and help you understand the next step.
Find Your Nearest Office
Find Ignite Orthodontics Near You.
Looking for an orthodontist close to home, work, or school? Find the Ignite Orthodontics location that’s most convenient for you.
Ignite Orthodontics — Sterling Heights
8130 Constitution Blvd
Sterling Heights, MI 48313
Ignite Orthodontics — Madison Heights
1190 E 12 Mile Rd
Madison Heights, MI 48071
Ignite Orthodontics — Farmington Hills
31700 W 12 Mile Rd
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Ignite Orthodontics — Flint
G3535 Beecher Rd, Ste A
Flint, MI 48532
Ignite Orthodontics — Allen Park
Allen Park, MI
Ignite Orthodontics — Trenton
Trenton, MI
Ignite Orthodontics — Pontiac
Pontiac, MI