Orthodontist for Teens in Andover, KS
At Sander Orthodontic Arts, we know the teenage years are an important time for both growth and confidence. As an experienced orthodontist for teens, our mission is to provide treatment options that not only create healthy, well-aligned smiles but also fit seamlessly into a teen’s lifestyle. Every smile is a reflection of personality, and our goal is to help your teen feel comfortable and confident through treatment that balances function, beauty, and individuality.
A Key Stage for Smiles?
The teenage years are often the best time to begin orthodontic treatment. By this age, most permanent teeth are in place, and jaw growth is still active enough to make adjustments effective. This makes it possible for orthodontists to correct misalignment and bite issues more efficiently than in adulthood.
Orthodontics for teens goes beyond creating straight teeth - it helps with:
Improving overall oral health and preventing long-term dental problems.
Supporting proper jaw development and bite function.
Boosting confidence during a stage of life when self-image is especially important.
Setting the foundation for a smile that lasts a lifetime.
When your teen visits our office, we focus on creating a positive, supportive environment where they feel understood, encouraged, and excited about their smile transformation.
Treatment Options for Teens
Every teenager is unique, which means orthodontic treatment should never be one-size-fits-all. At Sander Orthodontic Arts, we offer a variety of solutions designed to fit your teen’s needs, goals, and lifestyle.
Braces for Teens
Braces remain one of the most effective ways to treat a wide range of orthodontic concerns. Today’s braces are more comfortable, efficient, and subtle than ever. Teens can choose metal braces for a classic approach or ceramic (clear) braces for a less noticeable option. With small brackets and thin wires, modern braces are far less intrusive than they once were.
Clear Aligners
Many teens prefer the flexibility of clear aligners. We offer Angel Aligner clear aligners as a discreet, removable solution. Perfect for busy schedules, sports, or special events, aligners give teens freedom while still delivering precise results. Since aligners are removable, they make it easier to brush, floss, and enjoy a normal diet without restrictions.
Bite Correction and Appliances
Some orthodontic needs go beyond braces or aligners alone. For teens who require additional support, we may use appliances such as expanders, elastics (rubber bands), or other functional devices to guide jaw development and improve overall bite alignment. These appliances work alongside braces or aligners to ensure the final result is balanced, healthy, and long-lasting.
Building Healthy Habits That Last
Orthodontics is about more than straight teeth, it’s a chance to build lifelong routines for oral health. Along the way, we also make sure treatment fits each teen’s unique needs.
Personalized treatment, personal habits: Every plan is customized, and we show teens how to care for their smile in ways that work best with their treatment.
Master daily care: Learn how to brush and floss effectively with braces or aligners.
Choose smile-friendly foods: Understand what to enjoy and what to avoid for smoother treatment.
Protect results long-term: Build habits that keep teeth and gums healthy well beyond orthodontics.
These habits make treatment easier now while laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.
The Confidence Boost of a Great Smile
A straight, healthy smile can change the way teens see themselves and interact with the world. Orthodontics helps with:
Social confidence: Smiling more freely during school, activities, and friendships.
Self-esteem: Watching progress unfold and feeling proud of the results.
Personal growth: Gaining the confidence to speak up, take on challenges, and embrace new opportunities.
For many of our patients, treatment isn’t just about teeth, it’s about growing into a more confident version of themselves.
Why Parents Trust Us
Choosing an orthodontist for teens means finding a practice that combines clinical expertise with compassion. Parents trust Sander Orthodontic Arts because we balance artistry, precision, and function in every plan, while making sure the experience feels welcoming and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teen Orthodontics
At what age should my teen see an orthodontist?
Most teens benefit from starting orthodontic care between ages 11 and 16, once most permanent teeth have erupted. However, every patient is different. If you’re unsure, we recommend scheduling a consultation to evaluate the best timing for your child’s needs.
How do I know if my teen needs braces or aligners?
Common signs include crowded or overlapping teeth, gaps, difficulty biting or chewing, or an underbite or overbite. Our orthodontist will conduct a full evaluation, including X-rays, to determine the best treatment option.
Will braces or aligners affect daily activities?
Not at all. Teenagers can still participate in sports, music, and school activities while in treatment. Aligners can be removed for practices or performances, while braces are strong enough to stay in place (mouthguards are recommended for contact sports).
Do clear aligners work as well as braces?
Yes, in many cases clear aligners can achieve results similar to braces, especially for mild to moderate alignment concerns. For more complex cases, braces may still be recommended. We’ll help you choose the option that provides the best outcome for your teen.
How often will my teen need appointments?
Most patients come in every 6-8 weeks for adjustments or to pick up new aligners. These visits are quick and allow us to make sure progress is on track. We do our best to keep appointments convenient for busy school and activity schedules.
Start Your Teen’s Smile Journey Today
If you’re searching for an experienced orthodontist for teens in Andover, Sander Orthodontic Arts is here to help. Our team combines precision, artistry, and a warm approach to create smiles that build lifelong confidence.
Call us at 316-465-0555 or schedule a consultation online to take the first step toward your teen’s healthiest, most confident smile.