Posted on April 30, 2025
There are lots of things to keep in mind when choosing the right braces for your teen in Marietta. Metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners are all available. Each has its benefits, whether that be strength or being more discreet.
Our experienced orthodontist at Smilebliss will put together a plan that meets the needs of your teen personally, including considerations for the type of braces selected, with the overall goal being to get a smile that is both healthy and confident. Know what the essentials are before making your final decision on braces.
Have questions or ready to explore options for your teen? Contact us today to start the conversation.
When it comes to orthodontic treatment for teenagers in Marietta, different types offer different advantages. Most often, it depends on what your teen needs and how well they can follow the treatment routine.
Braces correct crowding, spacing, or bite issues by gradually moving teeth into place. Some adjustments need to be made every 4–8 weeks to monitor progress. It’s during these visits that the effectiveness of braces is reinforced. Teens can also choose different band colors to show their personality throughout treatment.
Clear aligners are custom plastic trays molded to fit over the teeth. They align teeth gradually. They can be removed for eating and brushing but should be worn for around 22 hours of the day to work effectively. Clear aligners are a good option for teens who want a more discreet look and can consistently follow their treatment plan.
While the decision should consider your teen’s preferences, it’s also helpful to understand how each option works and what it requires. Families in Marietta often compare these two choices when starting treatment.
On average, braces take about 18–24 months of active treatment, with regular adjustments. Clear aligners also require steady wear and routine check-ins, typically every 6–10 weeks, depending on how the treatment is progressing.
Metal brackets and wires are more visible and can be uncomfortable, especially after adjustments. Clear aligners are less noticeable and feel smoother, which can be more comfortable for teens who are sensitive to irritation.
Cleaning around braces involves extra steps, like using floss threaders or water flossers, to keep the areas around brackets and wires clean. Aligners should be cleaned daily with a soft toothbrush or cleaning solution.
When selecting braces for your teen in Marietta, it’s good to know that wearing braces will change their daily routine. Understanding these changes helps make the experience smoother and more manageable.
With braces, some food changes are needed. Sticky foods like caramel, taffy, and gum should be avoided since they can complicate hygiene. Hard foods, like nuts and popcorn, may break the braces. Soft foods are best at the start, especially when teeth are sore after getting braces. Let your teen know that any discomfort usually fades after the first few days.
For teens involved in contact sports, wearing a properly fitted mouthguard is important to protect both their braces and teeth. Teens who are not in contact sports should still follow their care instructions closely, especially when retainers are involved. Staying active is encouraged, and with the right precautions, they can continue playing while undergoing treatment.
Building solid hygiene habits helps prevent cavities and inflammation during treatment. After each meal, your teen should brush carefully around brackets and wires with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. They should also floss daily using floss threaders or orthodontic floss. Once these habits are part of their routine, they become easier to maintain.
Braces come in many forms, and the cost depends on the type of appliance used. Traditional metal braces in Marietta can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $7,500. However, at Smilebliss Marietta, we offer braces for up to 60% less than other offices-just $2998 with monthly payments of $123.
Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces but tend to cost more due to the materials used. Lingual braces, which go behind the teeth, are among the most expensive and typically range from $8,000 to $10,000.
The estimated cost for clear aligners in Marietta, including brands like Invisalign, usually falls between $4,000 and $8,000. At Smilebliss Marietta, we offer clear aligners for just $3998. There are also some aligner systems, like Invisalign First, made specifically for younger patients in Marietta to help guide developing teeth and create space for future alignment.
Orthodontic insurance coverage varies by plan. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of treatment costs. It’s best to check your individual coverage for details. Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) may also be used to help with orthodontic treatment costs. At Smilebliss Marietta, we can help guide you through payment options that work for your family.
Choosing braces for your teenager involves understanding their unique needs and daily routine.
At Smilebliss Marietta, we create personalized treatment plans that support long-term results. We focus on comfort and flexibility to help teens stick with their treatment from start to finish.
Each teen has different orthodontic needs. Some may only need treatment for a few months, while others may wear braces for one to three years, depending on how much correction is required.
Teens involved in sports or who play instruments may prefer clear aligners since they can be removed when needed. For aligners to work, they must be worn around 22 hours per day.
For teens who enjoy expressing themselves, traditional braces come with colorful rubber bands that can be swapped out for a personalized touch at each appointment.
It’s a common belief that clear aligners can treat every orthodontic case. In reality, they’re usually best for mild to moderate alignment issues. More involved cases may require braces for better results. At Smilebliss in Marietta, we review each case carefully to recommend the option that works best for your teen’s needs.
Choosing braces for your teen is a big decision, but at Smilebliss, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Understanding the different options, what the treatment process looks like, and what to expect afterward — including retainers — makes the journey easier for both parents and teens.
Call us today to schedule your teen’s consultation in Marietta and take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile.
