Formerly Seattle Smile Designs & Bellevue Center for Orthodontics
Refer a PatientAdolescent
Treatment
Adolescence is the optimal time for comprehensive orthodontic treatment at our Bellevue or Seattle offices, though occasionally even earlier intervention is called for. Generally, by the age of 10-13 the permanent teeth have all come in. Once all adult teeth are present, we can start aligning the teeth and perfecting the bite.
Orthodontic problems do not improve over time — as we age, crowding gets worse, we can start to see gum recession and other complications, and issues that were once minor become more complex. It is easier to treat many orthodontic problems during adolescence because the body is still growing. When we combine orthodontics and appliances like palatal expanders, we create dental and skeletal stability and an aesthetic result. If we wait until patients are older, the bones of the face and jaw are more fully developed, and many conditions become more difficult (and costly) to treat.
Orthodontic Appliances
Metal braces. Metal braces today are lighter and smaller than ever. For elastic ties, we offer every color and combination you can imagine.
Clear or tooth colored braces. Clear or tooth colored braces are made of a ceramic material so they blend in with the color of your teeth. Ceramic braces work and function the same as metal braces, but they can be more aesthetic.
Clear aligners. Clear aligners, including Invisalign, are becoming a popular treatment option for our adolescent and adult patients.
How aligners work. We take a digital scan of your mouth, and use special software to plan all of the tooth movement down to the 0.1mm. The software allows us to 3D print a series of aligners. We give you all of the aligners and you switch them out on your own. We will see you at regular intervals to check progress, monitor the gums and teeth, and monitor the bite. What this means for you:
- No food restrictions like we have with a cemented appliance like braces
- Less frequent visits because we do not have to tighten the appliances
- No “emergency” visits due to broken brackets or poking wires
- Sometimes more efficient treatment due to less appliance breakage
- Easier to clean teeth
What is a typical treatment duration?
Some treatment plans can be as short as 5 months, and others are longer than 2 years. If you have specific time constraints as you enter treatment, please share this with us at your initial consultation.
Retainers:
Your comprehensive care includes your first set of upper and lower retainers. These will be worn full time at first, then you will switch to nighttime wear. These retainers protect your teeth and help prevent relapse.
What to expect the day braces are put on:
Our goal is a beautiful smile at two locations
Bellevue Orthodontics
---1200 112th Ave NE B-200
Bellevue, WA 98004
Text or Call: (425) 453-0551 | Email
Office Hours
Mon - Thurs, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Seattle Orthodontics
---509 Olive Way Suite 840
Seattle, WA 98101
Text or Call: (206) 623-2192 | Email
Office Hours
Mon - Wed, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Thu, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM