When it comes to orthodontic treatment for teens in Fort Collins, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Your teen might be excited about straightening their teeth, nervous about how it will look, or somewhere in between. At Goings Orthodontics, we offer several options that fit different needs, personalities, and lifestyles. From traditional metal braces to clear aligners, your teen can get the care they need in a way that works for them.
Braces in Fort Collins
You likely already know about braces. They’re the most popular orthodontic treatment due to their decades-long reputation for effectiveness and efficiency. They work through a system of brackets and wires. Each bracket is bonded to your teen’s teeth and connected by an archwire, which gently guides the teeth into better alignment over time. As the wire is adjusted throughout treatment, it applies steady pressure to shift teeth into their ideal position.
While the function is the same as the braces you’ve known, their technology has come a long way since you were a teen. For example, we use self-ligating metal braces, which means there are no eye-catching, colorful elastic bands. Instead, a special clip holds the wire in place, which can lead to less friction, shorter appointment times, and fewer office visits. Many families appreciate the durability and effectiveness of this option, especially for more complex cases.
There are a few reasons metal braces might be the best fit for your teen:
- They’re always working, since they can’t be removed
- Don’t have to worry about your teen losing them or not wearing them
- Great for mild and complicated orthodontic needs
- The most durable option, so they can withstand almost anything
We also offer clear braces for older teens. Check them out and see how they differ from metal braces.
Clear Braces: A More Subtle Option for Teens
Clear braces work the same way as metal braces, but they come with a much more subtle appearance. Instead of shiny metal brackets, clear braces use ceramic brackets that are tooth-colored or completely transparent. This makes them a great fit for older teens who need the reliability of braces but are concerned about feeling self-conscious about braces or don’t want braces to steal the spotlight in photos or important events like school dances, sports banquets, or senior pictures.
We limit clear braces to older teens because of their delicate material. While still incredibly durable, they’re not as strong as metal braces. Because of this, younger patients are more likely to have a better overall experience with metal braces.
Invisalign for Teens
Dr. Goings is not just an Invisalign Fort Collins provider; he was one of the top 1% of the brand’s providers in 2024, which means he has 99% more experience than other dentists and orthodontists in using aligners and can use them to treat cases that other orthodontists might not. You can feel confident that your teen is in good hands every step of the way.
So, what are clear aligners? Clear aligners are an excellent alternative to traditional braces. The orthodontic appliance moves teeth by applying gentle, consistent pressure through a series of trays that are switched out every one to two weeks. Each new set of aligners is slightly different and gradually moves the teeth closer to their ideal positions.
They’re custom-made and removable, plus their transparent design allows your teen to improve their smile in a discreet way. Most people won’t even notice that your child is wearing aligners. Many of our young adult patients find this to be appealing, especially if they’re in the age range of driver’s license photos, dating, prom, and other major events.
Clear aligners offer a few standout perks:
- Compliance dot to ensure your teen is wearing them
- No dietary restrictions
- Easier brushing and flossing
- Fewer emergency visits (no broken brackets!)
- Nearly invisible appearance
However, the freedom to remove them comes with a little more responsibility. Your teen must be willing to commit to wearing the trays for 20–22 hours a day, keeping up with their treatment schedule, cleaning the aligners, and keeping track of where they are at all times.
How to Choose Between Braces and Aligners
You know your teen best, and the right treatment often comes down to their needs and personality. We recommend thinking through a few questions before coming to a decision:
- Is your teen responsible enough to wear aligners consistently?
- Are they worried about how braces will look in photos?
- What kind of orthodontic work do they need done?
- How involved do they want to be in managing their care?
- Are they able to clean their braces thoroughly?
At your teen’s first appointment, Dr. Goings will walk you through the options and make a recommendation based on their unique smile. We’ll always talk through the pros and cons of each option they qualify for so you can make well-informed decisions and feel good about the plan moving forward.
Why Orthodontics During the Teen Years Matters
The teen years are often the ideal time to start orthodontic treatment. Your child’s permanent teeth have mostly come in, and their jaw is still developing, making it easier to guide teeth into better alignment. Addressing issues like crowding, bite misalignment, and spacing during this time can lead to more efficient treatment and better long-term results.
Beyond the practical benefits, there’s a social component that matters, too. A straight smile can make a difference in how your teen sees themselves and how they interact with others. When they’re confident about their appearance, it often shows in school, on the field, and in everyday conversations. Orthodontic treatment can support that confidence while setting them up for a lifetime of healthier habits and fewer dental issues.
Straight teeth are also easier to keep clean, which supports better oral hygiene. This can mean fewer cavities, healthier gums, and a lower risk of more serious dental problems later on. All in all, orthodontics in Fort Collins during the teen years isn’t just about how their smile looks today—it’s an investment in how it will feel and function for decades to come.
Get A Personalized Orthodontics Plan In Fort Collins For Your Teen Now
We know orthodontic treatment is a big step for both you and your teen. That’s why we make the experience as easy and stress-free as possible. From the first consultation to the final appointment, you’ll feel supported every step of the way.
Contact Goings Orthodontics Fort Collins or Windsor today to schedule a free consultation with our dedicated team. Let’s work together to find the right solution for your teen’s smile and make the experience a great one from start to finish.
