Treatment that fits around their life.
The teenage years are an ideal time for orthodontic treatment — the jaws are still developing, and the full adult dentition is in place. At Claremont Orthodontics, we offer a range of options to suit every teenager's case, schedule, and preferences.
Choosing the right approach for your teenager.
Traditional metal braces
Metal braces remain a reliable and efficient option for teenagers, particularly where complex tooth movements or significant bite correction are involved. Modern brackets are smaller and more comfortable than earlier designs, and coloured elastic ties mean some teenagers embrace their braces as a form of expression. This is the workhorse option — effective across the widest range of presentations.
Ceramic (tooth-coloured) braces
Ceramic brackets blend with the natural tooth colour, making braces significantly less noticeable. They work in the same way as metal braces and are suitable for similar cases. For teenagers who want effective fixed treatment without the visibility of metal brackets, ceramic braces are a popular choice at our Claremont practice.
Invisalign Teen
Invisalign Teen includes features designed specifically for younger patients: compliance indicator dots that fade with wear (so parents and clinicians can check the aligners are being worn as directed) and provision for teeth that are still erupting. Whether Invisalign Teen is clinically appropriate depends on the specific case — Dr Denize will discuss this honestly at your consultation in Claremont.
Self-ligating systems
Self-ligating braces use a built-in clip instead of elastic ties, reducing friction and allowing longer intervals between adjustments. For busy Perth teenagers juggling school, sport, and after-school commitments, fewer clinic visits can be a genuine advantage. Available in both metal and ceramic versions.
Specialist care during the growth years.
The teenage years are not just about moving teeth. The jaws are still growing, which means an experienced specialist can work with growth rather than around it. Dr Stewart Denize and orthodontic therapist Dr Kylie Lewis bring combined decades of experience managing teenage orthodontic cases at our Claremont practice.
Families from Subiaco, Mount Claremont, Cottesloe, Shenton Park, and across Perth's western suburbs choose Claremont Orthodontics for their teenagers because specialist-level management of growth and bite during these years can simplify treatment significantly.
Depends on complexity. Dr Denize provides a personalised estimate at the initial consultation.
Early morning and after-school appointments available. Adjustments typically 20–30 minutes.
Metal braces, ceramic braces, self-ligating, and Invisalign Teen — all overseen by a specialist orthodontist.
Frequently asked questions about teen orthodontics.
What orthodontic options are available for teenagers?
Teenagers at Claremont Orthodontics have access to the same range of options as adults: traditional metal braces, tooth-coloured ceramic braces, Invisalign Teen, and in appropriate cases, self-ligating systems. The right option depends on the clinical needs of the case, not just preference — Dr Denize will explain what is appropriate for your teenager's specific teeth and bite at your Claremont consultation.
Can my teenager use Invisalign?
Yes. Invisalign offers a specific Teen formulation that includes features like compliance indicator dots (which fade with wear, allowing parents and clinicians to check usage) and provision for erupting teeth. Whether Invisalign is clinically suitable depends on the complexity of your teenager's case. Dr Denize will assess this thoroughly at your consultation in Claremont.
Will braces affect my teenager's school life?
Most teenagers adapt quickly to braces, and the impact on day-to-day school life is minimal. Speech typically normalises within a week or two. We schedule appointments at Claremont Orthodontics with school hours in mind — early morning and after-school slots are available. Adjustments take 20–30 minutes and rarely need to be during school time.
How long will my teenager need braces?
Treatment duration depends on the complexity of the case, not the patient's age. For most teenagers, comprehensive orthodontic treatment takes between 12 and 24 months. Dr Denize will give a personalised estimate after assessing your teenager's teeth, jaw, and bite at our practice on Stirling Highway in Claremont, Perth.
What happens if my teenager plays sport or a musical instrument?
Teenagers who play contact sports should wear a mouthguard over their braces — we can advise on the best option. For wind instrument players, there is a short adjustment period to accommodate the hardware, but most adapt well. If discretion during performances is a concern, tooth-coloured ceramic braces or clear aligners may be worth considering. Dr Denize will discuss the options with you.
Ready to explore options for your teenager?
Take our free 3-minute assessment or call our Claremont practice to arrange a consultation with Dr Denize or Dr Kylie Lewis.