(10–12 years)

A tweener with malocclusion simply means she has crooked teeth or an off bite; or more specifically, an under or overbite. Not having enough or having too much room in the jaw, as well as thumb sucking, pacifier use or tooth loss can all cause malocclusion. The good news for such a big word is that smile can be fixed with braces. Rather than getting into the components and how braces work, let’s take a look at three quick thoughts that are bound to come to your mind:

• What age? There isn’t a magic age or window of time for braces. Braces can actually be beneficial when there are still baby teeth present or into adulthood. The issue being dealt with determines when treatment starts. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct when the jaw is still growing, so somewhere between the ages of 9 and 13 seems to be optimal, but again the problem will dictate when the treatment starts.

• How long? The time frame for using braces depends on the complexity of the problem being treated. Generally, braces can correct the respective problem in about 1 to 3 years.

• How much! Of course we want our tweener to have a movie star smile, but braces aren’t a cheap endeavor. It is perfectly fine to inquire about cost with your orthodontist. Find out what’s included in their fees, if there are financing options or payment plans, and what extra charges may come up.

Check out www.bracesinfo.com/50_questions.PDF for a list of recommended questions you should ask your orthodontist before starting treatment.

84% of 17 year olds have tooth decay.

Teens are old enough and smart enough to understand the need to take care of their teeth. While much of their concern may be cosmetic, proper dental health offers benefits that run much deeper.

teens (13–18 years)

Habits For The Long Haul

Gum disease occurs when the tissues and bones that surround and support the teeth become infected. Surprisingly, 60% of 15 year olds experience gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease. This isn’t anything to mess around with. Research has found a direct link between heart disease and the bacteria that causes gum disease. Heart disease is the nation’s leading killer, so taking every precaution available is worth it. So, brush twice a day, floss at least once a day (by the way, brushing without flossing is like washing only 65% of your body) and get to the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

No Grinding Zone

Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding, which typically happens during sleep. Grinding can cause the fracture, loosening and even loss of teeth. In severe cases, it can affect the jaws and even cause hearing loss. Stress and anxiety can contribute to teeth grinding, but it is more likely caused by an abnormal bite or missing/crooked teeth. Your dentist can fit your teen with a mouth guard that can be worn during the night to protect his teeth, but there are some other things that can help reduce or prevent teeth grinding:

• Say no to stress – Help your teen de-stress, whether it means getting counseling or starting an exercise program. Help him find what works.

• Kick the caffeine – Limit or avoid the amount of pop, chocolate and coffee being consumed.

• No gum – Chewing gum or biting on hard objects, like pencils or pens, gets the jaw muscles used to clenching. sources: www.cnn.com, www.bracesinfo.com, www.braces.org, www.healthkids.org, www.webmd.com, www.saveyoursmile.com, www.babycenter.com