1224 McFarland Blvd. NE Tuscaloosa, AL. 35406
205-750-0081
If your teen is getting to that age where orthodontic treatment is on the table, you probably have a lot of questions. Braces? Invisalign? How long will it take? What will it cost? Dr. Whitaker works closely with families throughout Tuscaloosa to make the entire process more manageable so your teen gets the care they need without turning everything upside down.
Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics strives to provide long-term dental health, confidence, and a treatment plan that fits your teen’s lifestyle.
The teen years are a smart time to take care of orthodontic issues. Their bones are still developing, which means their teeth respond more quickly to treatment. Waiting too long can make everything take longer or cost more. While you’re thinking about logistics, your teen’s probably thinking about how their smile looks in selfies, at school, or when they’re out with friends.
Straightening their teeth now helps with brushing, flossing, and avoiding future dental problems. When bite issues go unchecked, they can lead to jaw discomfort, worn enamel, or plaque buildup down the road. Tackling it early can save your teen from those headaches later.
Every teen is different, and so is every treatment plan. Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics offers several orthodontic options in Tuscaloosa to meet your teen’s needs and make sure they’re comfortable with the decision.
This is the classic option, but with some updates. Today’s metal braces are sleeker, smaller, and more comfortable than the ones you might remember. Teens often enjoy picking out different band colors to personalize their look.
These are just as effective as metal braces, but they blend in more with natural teeth. They’re made from a tooth-colored ceramic that’s much less noticeable, which can help your teen feel more confident throughout treatment.
This version is designed with younger patients in mind. It includes features like wear indicators (so you’ll know if they’re being worn) and space for molars that haven’t come in yet.
Not every option is right for every teen, and that’s okay. Dr. Whitaker will walk you through what makes sense based on your child’s teeth, schedule, and habits.
Once your teen starts treatment, the day-to-day experience matters just as much as the long-term outcome. Here’s what to expect as things get underway:
No one wants to spend all afternoon at the orthodontist. Our team keeps things moving with appointments that are spaced out for convenience and run on time. You’ll be in, out, and back to your day.
The first few weeks take some getting used to with mild soreness, softer foods, and figuring out new brushing routines. Thankfully, most teens adjust quickly. After that, it becomes just another part of the routine.
Sticking to the plan is key with Invisalign, especially. Skipping days or not wearing aligners enough can slow things down. That said, every option benefits from consistency. Showing up to appointments and following care instructions make a big difference in how smoothly things go.
Ignoring orthodontic issues won’t make them go away. Crowding can get worse. Bite problems can start affecting speech or chewing. The emotional part matters, too, and some teens already feel uncomfortable about how their teeth look. That doesn’t always just pass with time.
When treatment starts earlier, it’s usually simpler. It can prevent the need for more complicated procedures later, and it can help your teen feel better in the moment, both physically and emotionally.
There’s no one “right” treatment plan. What matters most is finding something that fits your teen’s lifestyle and works with your family’s schedule. That’s exactly what Dr. Whitaker aims to do at Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics.
The goal is to achieve a healthier, more confident smile that lasts. It doesn’t have to take over your life in the process.
If it feels like the right time to explore orthodontic treatment for your teen, Dr. Whitaker and the team at Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics are here to help. Schedule a consultation at our Tuscaloosa office to get started.
March 31, 2025
