Ready to straighten your teeth but not sure who to call first, your family dentist or an orthodontist? It’s one of the most common questions we hear, and the answer isn’t always obvious. While both dentists and orthodontists help you maintain a healthy mouth, their training and daily focus differ in important ways. If you’re weighing your options, this guide breaks down who does what, so you can make a confident decision for your smile.

What Is the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?

All orthodontists are dentists, but only a small percentage of dentists are orthodontists. Both complete dental school and earn a DDS or DMD degree. Orthodontists then complete an additional 2-3 years of specialty residency focused entirely on tooth movement, bite correction, and jaw alignment.

Think of it this way. Your family dentist is like a primary care physician for your mouth. They handle cleanings, fillings, and overall oral health. An orthodontist is a specialist, similar to a cardiologist or dermatologist, who focuses on one specific area of care.

So who should straighten your teeth? That depends on the complexity of your case, the results you want, and how much specialized attention your smile deserves. At Hann Orthodontics, Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann have dedicated their careers to this single specialty, which shapes every treatment decision they make.

How Each Professional Is Trained and What They Do

The training path explains a lot about what each provider is best equipped to handle. Here’s how the two roles compare.

Dentist Training and Scope

Dentists complete four years of dental school after their undergraduate degree. Once licensed, they can perform a wide range of general dental services, including:

• Routine cleanings and exams
• Fillings and crowns
• Extractions
• Root canals
• Gum disease treatment
• Basic cosmetic work like whitening or veneers

Some dentists also offer clear aligners or short-term cosmetic tooth movement. This falls within their general license, though it’s not their primary training focus.

Orthodontist Training and Scope

Orthodontists complete the same four years of dental school, then dedicate 2-3 additional years to a CODA-accredited residency program. Thousands of hours of hands-on training, all focused on tooth movement, facial growth, and bite mechanics. During this time, residents work exclusively with orthodontic patients under expert supervision.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), only providers who complete this accredited residency can call themselves orthodontists and join the AAO. Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann both completed this specialty training, which is why the family business focuses exclusively on:

• Traditional metal braces
• Clear braces
• Invisalign and Invisalign for Teens
• Bite correction (overbites, underbites, crossbites)
• Jaw alignment and dentofacial orthopedics
• Orthodontics for all ages

That singular focus makes a real difference in how complex cases are diagnosed and treated.

Benefits of Choosing an Orthodontist to Straighten Your Teeth

Working with a specialist offers advantages that go beyond credentials on the wall. Here’s what you gain when an orthodontist plans and manages your treatment.

1. Specialized expertise for complex cases. Overbites, underbites, crossbites, severe crowding, and jaw misalignment require training that goes well beyond general dentistry. Orthodontists spend years studying how teeth and jaws respond to different forces.

2. More predictable results. Because orthodontists work with these cases every day, they can anticipate challenges early. This often means fewer complications, less risk of relapse, and a smoother experience from start to finish.

3. Advanced diagnostic technology. At Hann Orthodontics, modern digital equipment supports precise treatment planning. Digital photographs, digital x-rays, and 3D scans give Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann a detailed view of what’s happening beneath the surface.

4. Custom treatment plans. Every plan is tailored to your specific bite, growth pattern, and goals. That’s very different from a one-size-fits-all aligner protocol that treats every mouth the same way.

5. Better long-term oral health. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reduce stress on your jaw joints, and support a more balanced bite. That translates to fewer dental issues down the road.

6. Real experience with the full range of appliances. Whether it’s traditional braces on a growing child or discreet Invisalign for a busy professional, an orthodontist has hands-on experience with every option. You get the appliance that fits your case, not just the one your provider happens to offer.

Orthodontist vs. Dentist: Side-by-Side Comparison

Here’s a quick comparison to help you see the differences at a glance.

Category	Dentist	Orthodontist
Education	4 years of dental school	4 years of dental school + 2-3 year residency
Primary Focus	General oral health	Tooth and jaw alignment
Common Services	Cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions	Braces, Invisalign, bite correction, jaw alignment
Technology Focus	General diagnostic tools	3D scans, digital treatment planning, alignment mechanics
Ideal For	Routine care, decay, gum disease, general oral concerns	Crooked teeth, bite issues, complex alignment cases
Professional Membership	American Dental Association (ADA)	American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)

When to See a Dentist

Visit your dentist for regular checkups, cleanings every six months, cavity treatment, gum care, and any tooth discomfort. Your dentist is your first line of defense for daily oral health.

When to See an Orthodontist

See an orthodontist when you notice crooked or crowded teeth, gaps, an uneven bite, jaw discomfort, or if you’re ready to invest in transforming smiles. You don’t need a dentist’s referral to schedule a free consultation.

Cost Factors: Does Specialist Care Cost More?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that specialist care always costs more. In reality, orthodontic treatment fees are often comparable whether you choose a general dentist or an orthodontist. The bigger question is long-term value.

Choosing a specialist can reduce your risk of retreatment, which is where hidden costs really add up. If initial treatment doesn’t fully correct the bite, follow-up work may involve extractions, additional aligners, or TMJ therapy. These add cost and time that a properly planned case would have avoided.

A few things to know about paying for orthodontic care:

• Most orthodontic insurance benefits apply to both dentists and orthodontists
• Hann Orthodontics offers flexible payment plans with low monthly payments
• No money down payment plans are available
• Chase Health Advance financing options help spread costs comfortably
• Insurance filing assistance takes the paperwork off your plate

To make things easier, Hann Orthodontics offers a free consultation so you can explore your options with no strings attached. You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of what your treatment involves and what it will cost, all before making any commitment. That free exam is a no-pressure way to get real answers about your smile.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic care isn’t just for kids in middle school anymore. Beautiful smiles are possible at almost any age, and the ideal timing depends on your specific situation.

Children

The AAO recommends every child receive a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann can spot early alignment concerns and guide jaw development while a child is still growing. Early intervention doesn’t always mean early treatment. Sometimes it simply means monitoring so treatment can begin at the right moment.

Teens

The teen years are often the ideal window for braces or Invisalign for Teens. As permanent teeth erupt and jaws mature, treatment tends to be efficient and results long-lasting.

Adults

Adult orthodontics is one of the fastest-growing areas of care. Clear aligners and clear braces make it easy to correct oral issues discreetly, whether you’re in your twenties or your sixties.

Signs You Should Schedule an Orthodontic Evaluation

• Crowding or overlapping teeth
• Noticeable gaps between teeth
• Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
• Jaw discomfort or clicking
• Difficulty chewing or biting evenly
• Teeth that shifted after previous orthodontic work

You don’t need a referral from your dentist to see an orthodontist. Just pick up the phone or book online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to get braces from a dentist or an orthodontist?

For most cases, an orthodontist is the better choice because they’ve completed 2-3 additional years of specialty training focused entirely on tooth and jaw alignment. This deeper expertise typically leads to more predictable results, especially for complex bite issues. A general dentist may handle very mild cosmetic corrections, but a specialist provides the range of options and experience that most patients benefit from.

What type of dentist straightens teeth?

An orthodontist is the type of dentist who specializes in straightening teeth and correcting bite alignment. All orthodontists start as dentists, then complete a CODA-accredited residency dedicated to orthodontics. Some general dentists also offer basic aligner services, but only orthodontists have the specialty credential recognized by the American Association of Orthodontists.

What can an orthodontist do that a dentist can’t?

Orthodontists can diagnose and treat complex alignment issues such as severe overbites, underbites, crossbites, and jaw discrepancies that general dentistry doesn’t address. They’re trained in dentofacial orthopedics, which involves guiding facial and jaw growth in younger patients. They also work with the full range of appliances, from traditional braces to advanced clear aligner systems, and can customize treatment for cases a general dentist would typically refer out.

Are orthodontists more skilled than dentists at straightening teeth?

When it comes specifically to straightening teeth and correcting bites, yes. Orthodontists spend years of full-time residency studying the biomechanics of tooth movement, jaw growth, and treatment planning. Dentists receive general training in orthodontics during dental school, but not at the same depth. Think of it like comparing a general physician to a specialist for a specific health concern.

Can my dentist do Invisalign as well as an orthodontist?

Some general dentists do offer Invisalign, but how each provider handles it can look quite different in practice. Orthodontists use their specialty training to plan every aspect of tooth movement, which matters most for moderate to complex cases. At Hann Orthodontics, Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann build each Invisalign plan around years of specialty experience, not a cookie-cutter template.

Do I need a referral from my dentist to see an orthodontist?

No, you don’t need a referral to see an orthodontist. You can schedule a free consultation directly and get expert input on your smile. Many patients find an orthodontist on their own after noticing alignment concerns or hearing about treatment options from friends and family.

Ready to Start Your Smile?

Choosing the right provider is the first step toward the smile you’ve always wanted. Hann Orthodontics has served Brentwood, Antioch, and East County families with decades of specialty care, and your smile is our family business. Whether you’re exploring options for your child, your teen, or yourself, Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann are ready to help you take the next step with confidence.

Schedule your free exam today and see why your smile is our specialty.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends every child have their first orthodontist visit by age 7. That may sound early, but it’s the right window: your child’s first permanent molars and front incisors have typically come in, giving Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann enough of a preview to spot issues with bite, spacing, and jaw growth.

Here’s the good news: most 7-year-olds won’t need braces yet. The first visit is evaluative, not treatment-focused. Think of it as a baseline check, one that helps us catch small concerns before they become bigger ones.

At Hann Orthodontics, this first appointment is a Free Exam. No pressure, no obligation. Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann simply take a look, share what they see, and let you know whether your child needs treatment now, monitoring over time, or nothing at all.

What Happens at Your Child’s First Orthodontic Visit

Your child’s first visit is designed to feel more like a friendly conversation than a clinical exam. We keep things light, answer every question, and make sure your child feels comfortable from the moment they walk in.

Here’s what to expect during the appointment:

• Dental and medical history review. We’ll ask about your child’s overall health, habits (like thumb-sucking), and any dental work they’ve had done.
• Visual exam. Dr. Frank Hann or Dr. Kristen Hann will look at your child’s teeth, gums, jaw, and bite alignment.
• Digital x-rays or 3D scans, if needed. These give us a clear picture of tooth position, jaw structure, and adult teeth still developing beneath the surface.
• Growth and eruption assessment. We evaluate how the jaw is developing and how permanent teeth are coming in.
• Findings discussion. We’ll walk you through what we see, whether that means treatment now, monitoring, or simply checking back in a year.
• Q&A time. You and your child can ask anything. No question is too small.

Most first visits take around 45 minutes to an hour. Your child stays awake, comfortable, and involved the entire time. Many parents are surprised at how much their kids enjoy the experience.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluation

Catching orthodontic concerns early gives your child a real advantage. When we spot developing issues while the jaw is still growing, we have more tools available and better outcomes are often possible.

Here’s what early evaluation can do for your child:

• Guide jaw growth naturally. The bones in a child’s face are still developing between ages 7 and 10. Gentle guidance during this window can prevent more involved work later.
• Correct harmful habits. Thumb-sucking, tongue thrust, and chronic mouth breathing can all shape the mouth and jaw in ways that create bite issues. Early intervention helps redirect these patterns.
• Reduce risk of injury. Kids with protruding front teeth are more likely to chip or fracture them during sports or play. Repositioning those teeth earlier lowers that risk.
• Simplify future treatment. When Phase 1 addresses foundational issues, Phase 2 treatment (if needed) is often shorter and more straightforward.
• Support better airway and sleep. A narrow palate or crowded jaw can affect breathing, especially at night. Widening the palate early may improve airflow, reduce snoring, and support healthier sleep.
• Build confidence. Kids notice their smiles. Addressing visible bite or spacing concerns early can make a real difference in how your child feels at school and with friends.

Early doesn’t always mean treatment. Sometimes the biggest benefit is simply knowing what to watch for. Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann have transformed thousands of smiles over the past 30+ years, and much of that success starts with catching things early.

Phase 1 vs. Phase 2 Treatment: What’s the Difference?

Not every child needs two phases of orthodontic care. In fact, many kids skip Phase 1 entirely and go straight to Phase 2 during their preteen or teen years. Here’s how the two phases compare:

Feature	Phase 1 (Interceptive)	Phase 2 (Comprehensive)
Typical Age	6-10 years	11+ years
Main Goal	Guide jaw growth, address bite issues	Align all permanent teeth
Teeth Present	Mix of baby and permanent	All (or nearly all) permanent
Common Appliances	Palatal expanders, space maintainers, partial braces	Metal braces, clear braces, Invisalign Teen
Duration	6-12 months typically	12-24 months typically
Who Needs It	Kids with significant bite or growth concerns	Most teens getting braces

Phase 1 focuses on the foundation: jaw width, room for incoming teeth, and correcting crossbites or severe overbites. Phase 2 is the finishing work: straightening every permanent tooth into its ideal position.

At Hann Orthodontics, Phase 2 treatment options include traditional metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign Teen. Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann will help you choose the option that fits your teen’s lifestyle, personality, and treatment needs.

Cost and Insurance Considerations

The initial exam at Hann Orthodontics is free, so you can get a professional evaluation and clear answers before making any financial commitment. If treatment is recommended, we’ll walk you through every cost involved so there are no surprises.

A few things worth knowing about the financial side:

• Phase 1 typically costs less than full Phase 2 treatment, since it’s shorter and more focused.
• Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, especially for children. Our team helps file your insurance claims.
• HSA and FSA funds can usually be applied toward orthodontic care.
• Flexible payment plans with low monthly payments (and no money down options) make treatment affordable for most families.
• Early evaluation may lower total treatment cost over time by addressing issues before they require more involved work.

We also offer Chase Health Advance financing for families who prefer extended payment options.

Signs Your Child May Need to See an Orthodontist Sooner

While age 7 is the general recommendation, some signs suggest an earlier visit is a smart idea. If you notice any of the following, it’s worth scheduling a Free Exam:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth. Both can signal that permanent teeth aren’t coming in on schedule.
• Difficulty chewing or biting. Kids shouldn’t have to work hard to eat normal foods.
• Mouth breathing or snoring. Chronic mouth breathing can point to airway or jaw issues.
• Thumb-sucking past age 5. Prolonged sucking habits can reshape the roof of the mouth and push teeth forward.
• Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth. When teeth don’t have room to come in properly, we can often create space early.
• Jaws that shift, click, or appear misaligned. Any unusual jaw movement or asymmetry deserves a closer look.

Trust your gut. If something looks off to you, a quick evaluation can bring peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is age 7 too young for braces?

Age 7 isn’t too young for an evaluation, but it’s often too young for braces. Most children who visit at 7 don’t start treatment right away. The visit is about assessing growth, checking bite development, and identifying any issues that benefit from early attention. If treatment is needed, it’s typically limited and focused.

How do I know if my child needs braces?

Some signs are visible, like crowded teeth, gaps, an overbite, or an underbite. Others are subtle, like difficulty chewing, mouth breathing, or a jaw that shifts when biting down. The most reliable way to know is a professional evaluation. Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann offer a Free Exam that gives you a clear answer.

What’s the difference between a pediatric dentist and an orthodontist?

A pediatric dentist focuses on your child’s overall dental health: cleanings, cavities, gum care, and routine checkups. An orthodontist specializes in tooth and jaw alignment, bite correction, and appliances like braces or Invisalign. The two work together, and your pediatric dentist may be the first to suggest an orthodontic visit.

Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?

No referral is needed. You can schedule your child’s Free Exam at Hann Orthodontics directly, without a dentist’s referral. Many families come in on their own after noticing a concern, and many others come at their pediatric dentist’s suggestion.

What happens if we wait until my child is older?

Waiting isn’t always an issue, but in some cases it means missing the window when jaw growth can be guided naturally. Issues that could have been addressed with a simple appliance at age 8 sometimes require more involved treatment at age 14. An early evaluation just gives you the information to decide.

Are early orthodontic visits covered by insurance?

Since the initial exam at Hann Orthodontics is free, insurance isn’t a factor for the first visit. If treatment is recommended, many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits for children. Our team helps verify your coverage and files claims on your behalf.

Ready to find out if it’s time for your child’s first orthodontic visit? Schedule a Free Exam with Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann at our Brentwood office today. We serve families throughout Brentwood, Antioch, and East County, and we’d love to meet yours.

Book Your Child’s Free Exam

How to Choose the Right Orthodontist

Finding the right orthodontist shapes your entire smile experience. The choice affects your comfort, your results, and how you feel walking into the office every few weeks for the next year or two. This guide walks you through how to choose the right orthodontist, so you can start treatment feeling calm, informed, and genuinely excited about the smile ahead.

At Hann Orthodontics, Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann have spent decades helping families find the smile of their dreams. Here’s what to look for.

 

What It Means to Choose the Right Orthodontist

Choosing the right orthodontist means finding a specialist whose credentials, treatment options, communication style, and office experience match your goals and lifestyle. Orthodontists complete 2-3 years of specialty training beyond dental school, focusing exclusively on tooth and jaw alignment. The right fit balances expertise, comfort, convenience, and trust, which directly shapes your treatment outcome.

Not every provider who offers aligners is an orthodontist. That distinction matters. An orthodontist has the depth of training to plan complex cases, choose the best appliance for your teeth, and adjust the plan as your smile changes.

The “right” orthodontist isn’t the same for everyone. A busy adult may prioritize evening hours and Invisalign options. A parent may want a warm, kid-friendly office. A teen may care most about discreet treatment. Getting this decision right pays off in smoother appointments, better results, and a more comfortable experience from start to finish.

How to Evaluate and Choose an Orthodontist Step by Step

Choosing an orthodontist comes down to five clear steps: verify their credentials, review their treatment options, book a free exam, check reviews and results, and consider office convenience. Working through each step helps you compare providers on what actually matters, not just marketing.

Take them one at a time:

1. Verify credentials and specialty training. Confirm the provider is a licensed orthodontist, not a general dentist offering aligners. Orthodontists complete years of additional specialty training beyond dental school. Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann each bring more than a decade of hands-on experience in practice focused specifically on orthodontics.
2. Review the treatment options offered. A quality modern office should offer several paths, including Invisalign, clear braces, and modern metal braces. Multiple options mean the provider can match the treatment to your case, not the other way around.
3. Book a free exam or virtual exam. This is the best way to gauge communication style, chairside manner, and how well the team answers your questions. Hann Orthodontics offers a free consultation with no strings attached.
4. Check reviews, before-and-after cases, and technology. Ask to see real before-and-after photos of patients with cases similar to yours. Look for a modern office with digital x-rays and digital photographs.
5. Consider scheduling flexibility and convenience. Same-day treatment starts, easy appointment scheduling, and a convenient location all matter over the course of a 12-24 month treatment.

Benefits of Choosing the Right Orthodontist

Pick the right orthodontist and you gain three things fast: a plan built around your teeth and lifestyle, access to modern treatment tools, and a team you actually trust visit after visit. The benefits go far beyond straight teeth. Here’s what you gain:

• Treatment plans built around you. Your teeth, bite, and lifestyle are unique. An experienced orthodontist creates a plan that fits you, whether that’s Invisalign, clear braces, or traditional metal braces.
• Access to modern treatment options. A well-equipped modern office offers newer aligner systems, digital scanning, and same-day treatment starts. That means less waiting and more precise care.
• Better outcomes with fewer complications. Specialty training pays off in complex cases. An orthodontist can spot issues early and adjust the plan before small concerns become bigger ones.
• Upfront, honest pricing. The right office explains fees clearly and offers flexible payment plans. At Hann Orthodontics, that includes no money down payment plans and third-party financing options.
• A comfortable, trusting relationship. You’ll be visiting this office every few weeks for a year or more. Choosing a team that treats you like family makes every appointment easier.

Children, teens and adults all deserve beautiful smiles, and the right orthodontist makes the difference between an okay experience and a great one.

Orthodontist vs General Dentist: Which Should You Choose?

Orthodontists specialize exclusively in tooth and jaw alignment, while general dentists focus on overall oral health. Both play important roles, but for transforming smiles, an orthodontist offers the specialty training, case experience, and range of treatment options needed for the best results.

General dentists may offer basic aligners, but they haven’t completed the additional years of orthodontic residency. For simple cases, that might be fine. For complex bites, crowding, or jaw alignment issues, a dedicated orthodontist is the better choice.

Here’s how the two compare:

If your case involves crowding, spacing, an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or any concern beyond mild crookedness, choose an orthodontist. Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann handle the full range of cases, from the simplest to the most involved.

Cost Factors to Consider When Choosing an Orthodontist

Orthodontic cost depends on three main factors: the treatment type you choose, the complexity of your case, and the length of treatment. Invisalign, clear braces, and metal braces each have different price points, and more complex cases typically cost more because they take longer and require more appointments.

A few things shape the final price more than anything else:

• Treatment type. Invisalign and clear braces generally cost more than modern metal braces. Each option has its own advantages.
• Case complexity. Minor crowding costs less to correct than a complex bite issue that also involves jaw alignment.
• Treatment length. Longer treatment means more appointments and more materials. Most cases run 12-24 months.
• Payment plans and financing. It always helps to ask about no money down plans, low monthly payments, and third-party financing. Ask if the office helps file insurance claims, too.
• Free exams reduce upfront cost. A free consultation lets you get a real estimate without spending anything to learn what treatment would cost.

The lowest price isn’t always the best value. An experienced orthodontist who gets your case right the first time is worth more than a rushed treatment that needs correction later. At Hann Orthodontics, affordable payment plans are built around your family’s budget.

How to Know If You’re Ready for Orthodontic Treatment

You may be ready for orthodontic treatment if you notice crowding, gaps, crooked teeth, or a bite that doesn’t line up. Orthodontics serves all ages, from children as young as 7 to adults in their 60s and beyond. A free consultation is the best way to know for sure.

Common signs it’s time to book a free exam:

• Crowded, overlapping, or crooked teeth
• Gaps or spacing between teeth
• An overbite, underbite, or crossbite
• Teeth that don’t meet properly when you bite down
• Jaw discomfort or clicking
• Difficulty cleaning between certain teeth

Adults often assume it’s too late to correct oral issues. It isn’t. Invisalign for teens and adults offers a discreet way to straighten teeth without the look of traditional braces. Clear braces are another popular option for patients who want subtle treatment.

For children, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment. It gives Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann a chance to monitor growth and plan the best timing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing an Orthodontist

How do I know if an orthodontist is qualified?

Look for a licensed orthodontist who has completed 2-3 years of specialty training beyond dental school. Ask about their years in practice, the range of cases they treat, and whether they’re a member of the American Association of Orthodontists. A qualified specialist will be happy to answer these questions.

Should I get a second opinion before starting treatment?

Yes, second opinions are a smart move, especially for complex cases or bigger financial commitments. Many orthodontists, including Hann Orthodontics, offer a free consultation with no obligation. Comparing recommendations, treatment plans, and cost estimates helps you feel confident in your final choice.

How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?

Most orthodontic treatment takes between 12 and 24 months, though timing varies based on your case. Minor corrections may finish in less than a year, while complex bite issues can take longer. Your orthodontist will give you a personalized estimate at your free exam.

Can I choose Invisalign over braces?

For many patients, yes. Invisalign works well for a wide range of cases, from mild crowding to more involved alignment issues. Some complex cases still respond better to clear braces or modern metal braces. A consultation with Dr. Frank Hann or Dr. Kristen Hann will determine which option fits your case best.

What questions should I ask at my first visit?

Ask about the treatment options that fit your case, the estimated timeline, total cost, and available payment plans. Ask how many similar cases the orthodontist has treated and what results you can realistically expect. Also worth asking: how often you’ll come in for appointments, and what happens if you need adjustments between visits. When you’re ready to explore your options, Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann offer a free consultation with no strings attached, and we can’t wait to do the same for you that we’ve done for so many families over the years. Your smile is our specialty, and we’d love to help you find the smile of your dreams. Get braces and smile more, it’s that simple.

Why Braces Are Still a Great Option for Teens

Braces remain one of the most effective ways for teens to achieve a straight, healthy smile. While clear aligners have gained popularity, traditional braces offer proven results for a wide range of orthodontic concerns. Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann have helped teens transform their smiles with braces for many years, building on a family approach to orthodontic care.

If you’re a parent looking into orthodontic treatment for your teen, you might wonder whether braces are still the right choice. The short answer? Absolutely. Here’s why braces continue to be a trusted option for teens and their families.

What Are Traditional Braces?

Traditional braces are small brackets bonded to each tooth and connected by a thin archwire that applies steady, gentle pressure to guide teeth into proper alignment. This time-tested system corrects crowding, spacing, rotation, and bite issues with reliable precision teens and parents can count on.

Today’s braces look nothing like the bulky metal appliances of the past. Modern brackets are smaller, lower-profile, and far more comfortable. Teens can choose between classic metal braces or clear ceramic brackets for a subtler appearance.

Treatment typically lasts 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of your teen’s case. Throughout this time, the orthodontist makes gradual adjustments to keep teeth moving toward their ideal positions.

How Braces Work to Straighten Teen Smiles

The brackets serve as anchors on each tooth, while the archwire acts as a track guiding teeth where they need to go. Small elastic ligatures (those colorful bands teens love to customize) or self-ligating clips hold the wire securely in place.

Every four to eight weeks, your teen visits the orthodontist for an adjustment. During these appointments, Dr. Frank Hann or Dr. Kristen Hann, both practicing orthodontists, evaluates progress and modifies the wire to continue moving teeth. This hands-on approach gives the orthodontist direct control over treatment.

For bite correction, extra tools may come into play. Rubber bands stretched between upper and lower brackets help align the jaw. Some teens need palatal expanders or other appliances to create space or address growth patterns.

Once active treatment ends, retainers become essential. These custom-fitted devices maintain results and prevent teeth from shifting back. Most teens wear retainers full-time initially, then transition to nighttime wear.

Top Benefits of Braces for Teens

Why do braces remain so popular for teen patients? The advantages go beyond just straightening teeth.

Are Braces Effective for Complex Cases?

Yes. Braces handle severe crowding, significant rotation, and challenging bite problems that aligners may struggle to correct. When teeth need substantial movement, braces deliver dependable results.

Do Braces Require Daily Compliance?

Not really. Once braces are placed, they work continuously. There’s no need to remember to wear them 20-plus hours daily. They stay in place and do their work without daily reminders.

Can Teens Lose Their Braces?

No. Removable aligners can get lost, damaged, or accidentally thrown away. Braces are fixed in place, eliminating that concern entirely.

How Does Orthodontist-Controlled Movement Help?

Your orthodontist guides every adjustment. This direct oversight means accurate, predictable results tailored to your teen’s unique smile.

Can Teens Customize Their Braces?

Absolutely. Colored elastics let teens show off their personality at every appointment. School colors, holiday themes, or favorite shades make braces fun to wear.

Are Braces Budget-Friendly?

Often, yes. Metal braces frequently cost less than aligner treatment, making them an accessible choice for many families. You can review payment options on our financial information page.

Braces vs. Invisalign for Teens: Which Is Right?

Both braces and Invisalign Teen can create beautiful smiles. The best choice depends on your teen’s specific needs, lifestyle, and preferences.

Factor	Traditional Braces	Invisalign Teen
Visibility	Noticeable (metal) or subtle (clear)	Nearly invisible
Removability	Fixed in place	Removable for eating and brushing
Compliance needed	None required	Must wear 20-22 hours daily
Complex cases	Excellent for severe issues	Better for mild to moderate cases
Oral hygiene	Requires careful cleaning around brackets	Easy brushing and flossing
Adjustment visits	Every 4-8 weeks	Every 6-10 weeks
Expression options	Colorful elastics available	Clear, uniform appearance

Braces excel when teens face complex bite issues, significant rotation, or cases requiring careful, fine-tuned tooth movement. They’re also a good fit for teens who might forget to wear aligners consistently. That said, Invisalign offers real benefits for teens who value discretion and can commit to wearing trays as directed.

A free exam with Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann can help clarify which option makes the most sense for your teen’s smile goals, but learning the basics first puts you in a stronger position to ask the right questions.

What Affects the Cost of Braces for Teens

Several factors influence the total investment for your teen’s orthodontic treatment.

• Case complexity matters most. Mild crowding requires less time and fewer adjustments than full bite correction. More involved cases naturally cost more.
• The type of bracket plays a role too. Metal braces typically run less than clear ceramic brackets. Both work equally well, so this becomes a matter of preference and budget.
• Treatment length varies. Longer treatment means more appointments and adjustments. Your orthodontist provides a timeline estimate during the first visit.
• Other appliances can add to the total. Expanders, elastics, or specialty tools may be necessary for certain cases. These are factored into your treatment plan.
• Insurance helps many families. Most orthodontic insurance plans cover a portion of braces. Many practices will file claims on your behalf and help you understand your benefits.
• Flexible payment plans ease the burden as well. No money down options and low monthly payments make treatment accessible. Third-party financing options are also commonly available for families who need extra flexibility.

Which Teens Are Good Candidates for Braces?

Braces work well for a wide range of teen patients. Your teen may be a strong candidate if they have:

• Moderate to severe crowding or spacing between teeth
• Teeth that are rotated or tilted out of position
• Overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite concerns
• A busy schedule that makes aligner compliance challenging
• An active lifestyle with sports or activities where managing trays feels cumbersome
• A still-developing jaw that benefits from the steady, guided tooth movement braces provide

Younger teens whose mouths are still growing often respond especially well to braces. The orthodontist can work with natural development to guide teeth and jaws into proper alignment, which can shorten or simplify later phases of care. You can also learn more about treatment by age on our orthodontics for all ages page.

Not sure if braces are right for your teen? A free exam takes the guesswork out of the equation. Dr. Frank Hann and Dr. Kristen Hann, both orthodontists, evaluate your teen’s teeth, bite, and jaw to recommend the most effective treatment path.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teen Braces

How long do teens typically wear braces?

Most teens wear braces for 12 to 24 months. The exact timeline depends on the complexity of the case. During a free consultation, the orthodontist provides a personalized estimate based on the teen’s specific needs.

Do braces hurt?

Teens may feel mild soreness for a day or two after braces are placed and following each adjustment. This is normal and temporary. Over-the-counter relief and soft foods help during these brief periods.

Can teens play sports with braces?

Yes! Teens can stay active in all their favorite sports. A properly fitted mouthguard protects both braces and teeth during contact activities. Ask your orthodontic team about orthodontic-friendly mouthguard options that work well with brackets and wires.

What foods should teens avoid with braces?

Hard, sticky, and chewy foods can damage brackets or wires. Teens should skip items like popcorn, hard candy, caramels, and chewing gum. Cutting crunchy fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces makes them safer to eat without risking damage to the brackets.

Are clear braces as effective as metal braces?

Absolutely. Clear ceramic brackets use the same mechanics as metal braces and achieve the same results. The only difference is appearance. Clear braces blend with tooth color for a less noticeable look that many teens appreciate.

How often are orthodontic visits needed?

Teens typically visit every four to eight weeks for adjustments. These appointments are usually quick, often lasting just 15 to 20 minutes. A good orthodontic team will work with your family’s schedule to find convenient appointment times, including options before or after school whenever possible.

Ready to see whether braces are the right fit for your teen? Schedule a free virtual exam or contact Hann Orthodontics to get started.