59 Phenix Ave Cranston, RI 02920
Why the Teen Years Are the Ideal Window for Treatment
Experienced orthodontists like Dr. Cosmo can easily recognize teens with existing or developing bite issues, crowding, spacing, and alignment problems — and the teen years are when your child's bone and jaw structure are mature enough to allow orthodontic treatment to begin.
Some teens may have already completed Phase 1 treatment at an earlier age, and are now moving into a well-timed comprehensive Phase 2 orthodontic treatment. Others are beginning their orthodontic journey for the first time.
Beyond the clinical advantages, a beautiful dental profile has a lasting impact on a teen's well-being, self-confidence, and social development. There is no better time to invest in a smile that will serve them for life.
Choose Your Look — Treatment Options for Teens
While creating a customized treatment plan for your teen, Dr. Cosmo may recommend one or more of the following orthodontic appliances. Every plan is personalized — because no two smiles are the same.
Metal Braces
Metal braces have come a long way. Even within the past decade, when many people think of braces they think of extremely visible, bulky hardware — that's no longer the reality.
Today's metal braces are significantly smaller, more comfortable, and more effective than ever before. We use industry-leading programmed brackets from 3M and American Orthodontics — the same advanced self-ligating bracket systems used by top orthodontic practices nationwide. For teens who want the most tried-and-true path to a great smile, metal braces remain one of the most reliable and effective options available.
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Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work the same way metal braces do — but they're made from a tooth-colored ceramic material that blends in with the natural shade of your teen's teeth, making them far less noticeable.
Ceramic braces are a great fit for teens who want a more discreet look than traditional metal braces, without the full commitment of removable aligners. They offer the same level of control and precision as metal braces in a significantly lower-profile package.
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3M Incognito™ Lingual Braces
For teens who want treatment that's truly invisible, Cranston Orthodontics is Rhode Island's first provider of 3M Incognito™ Lingual Braces — brackets placed entirely on the inside surface of the teeth, completely hidden from view.
Lingual braces offer the full corrective capability of traditional braces with zero visibility. They are custom-fabricated to fit each individual patient's tooth anatomy and are an excellent option for image-conscious teens involved in sports, performing arts, or who simply want their treatment to remain completely private.
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Invisalign® for Teens
Invisalign® Teen uses a series of fully customized, removable clear aligners that are virtually invisible and nearly undetectable — even up close. Aligners can be removed for eating, brushing, sports, and special events, making them the most flexible option available.
For best results, aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours per day. Dr. Cosmo will determine whether Invisalign is the right fit during your teen's complimentary consultation.
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Signs Your Teen May Need Treatment
If you notice any of the following, we recommend scheduling an evaluation with Dr. Cosmo — these may be signs your teen would benefit from treatment:
- Early, late, or irregular loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Crowding, or teeth coming in behind baby teeth
- Teeth that shift or make sounds
- Frequent biting of the cheek or the inside of the mouth
- Teeth that look misplaced or out of position
- Jaws and teeth that are not proportionate to the face
- Protruding teeth
Make an Investment in Your Teen's Smile Today
Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your child's future. By scheduling a free exam, Dr. Cosmo will be happy to discuss the benefits of treatment and outline a plan that's right for your teen. We will be happy to work with your schedule and any insurance coverage.
Although results vary, we successfully complete orthodontic treatment, so your teen will wear a retainer and can expect complete and lasting treatment time.