Orthodontics for Teens in Santa Monica, CA

Full Orthodontic Treatment for Growing Smiles

The teen years are often the ideal time to complete full orthodontic treatment. By this stage, most or all permanent teeth have erupted, which allows Dr. Rehana Khan, DDS, MS, to evaluate tooth position, bite alignment and jaw development more fully. At Santa Monica Orthodontics, we provide teen orthodontics in Santa Monica, California, to help patients build healthier, straighter and more confident smiles.

Dr. Khan has over 20 years of orthodontic experience and has completed thousands of orthodontic cases, including braces and clear aligner treatment for children, teens and adults. Whether your teen needs braces, Invisalign® clear aligners or additional treatment after early orthodontic care, our team can help you understand the right next step.

Call 310-393-3344 or request an appointment to schedule a teen orthodontic consultation at Santa Monica Orthodontics.

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What Is Phase II Orthodontic Treatment?

Phase II orthodontic treatment is full orthodontic treatment that usually begins after a child has lost most or all of their baby teeth. Once the permanent teeth have erupted, Dr. Khan can evaluate how the teeth fit together and determine whether additional treatment is needed to guide the smile into better alignment.

For some patients, Phase II treatment follows early orthodontic treatment, also called Phase I treatment. Phase I may help create space, guide jaw growth or address developing orthodontic concerns while a child is still growing. However, because not all permanent teeth have erupted during Phase I, many patients still need Phase II treatment once the rest of the teeth come in.

For other patients, Phase II is their first orthodontic treatment. This is common for teens whose orthodontic needs become clearer once their permanent teeth have fully developed.

When Should Teens Start Orthodontic Treatment?

Many patients are ready for full orthodontic treatment between ages 11 and 14, but every child develops at a different pace. The right timing depends on tooth eruption, bite development, jaw growth and the type of treatment needed.

Starting treatment at the right time can make orthodontics more efficient because the jaw and facial structures are still growing. This growth can sometimes help Dr. Khan guide tooth movement and bite correction more effectively than waiting until adulthood.

If you are unsure whether your child is ready for braces or Invisalign treatment, a consultation can help determine whether treatment should begin now or be monitored for a later start.

Braces and Invisalign Options for Teens

Teen orthodontic treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Dr. Khan will evaluate your teen’s smile, bite, oral hygiene, lifestyle and treatment goals before recommending the best option.

Depending on your teen’s needs, treatment may include:

• Traditional metal braces
• Ceramic braces
• Invisalign® clear aligners
• Other orthodontic appliances when needed
• Retainers after treatment to help maintain results

Braces may be recommended for teens who need more controlled tooth movement or who may not be ready for the responsibility of removable aligners. Invisalign may be a good option for responsible teens who can wear their aligners as directed and keep track of them throughout the day.

Why Teen Orthodontics Matters

Orthodontic treatment can do more than improve the appearance of your teen’s smile. Proper alignment can also support better bite function, easier brushing and flossing, improved comfort and long-term oral health.

Teen orthodontics may help address concerns such as:

• Crowded teeth
• Spacing or gaps between teeth
• Overbite, underbite or crossbite concerns
• Teeth that do not fit together properly
• Impacted or poorly positioned teeth
• Smile concerns that affect confidence
• Additional treatment needs after Phase I orthodontics

Because every smile develops differently, Dr. Khan will create a treatment plan based on your teen’s specific needs rather than using a generic approach.

Why Choose Santa Monica Orthodontics?

Dr. Rehana Khan, DDS, MS, completed a three-year orthodontic residency and earned a Master of Science in Orthodontics from Loma Linda University. She has over 20 years of experience as an orthodontic specialist and has completed thousands of orthodontic cases for children, teens and adults.

At Santa Monica Orthodontics, teen orthodontic treatment is supported by advanced digital planning and modern technology. Dr. Khan uses tools such as iTero digital scanning, CBCT/3D imaging when appropriate, digital photography and digital treatment planning to evaluate each patient’s smile and plan treatment more precisely.

For teens considering clear aligners, Dr. Khan is also a Top 1% Diamond Invisalign Provider, giving families added confidence when Invisalign is an appropriate treatment option.

What to Expect During a Teen Orthodontic Consultation

Your teen’s first visit is designed to help our team understand their smile, their bite and their treatment needs. During the consultation, Dr. Khan will review your teen’s teeth and jaw development, discuss any concerns and explain whether treatment is recommended.

If treatment is needed, we will walk you through the available options, estimated treatment timeline, financial considerations and what your teen can expect day to day. Our goal is to make the process clear for both parents and patients so your family can make a confident decision.

Life With Braces or Clear Aligners

Our team helps teens understand how to care for their teeth during orthodontic treatment. With braces, this includes brushing carefully around brackets and wires, avoiding certain foods and keeping regular adjustment visits. With Invisalign, it means wearing aligners as directed, removing them for meals and cleaning them properly.

Good cooperation is one of the biggest factors in successful teen orthodontic treatment. Dr. Khan and our team will help your teen understand their role in keeping treatment on track and protecting their final results.

How Much Does Teen Orthodontic Treatment Cost?

The cost of teen orthodontics depends on the type of treatment, the complexity of the case and the length of treatment. During your consultation, our team can review your estimated cost, insurance benefits and payment options.

You can also visit our financial options page to learn more about ways to make orthodontic care more manageable for your family.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics for Teens

What is the best age for teen orthodontic treatment?

Many patients begin full orthodontic treatment between ages 11 and 14, but the right timing depends on tooth eruption, bite development and jaw growth. Dr. Khan can determine whether your teen is ready during a consultation.

Does my teen need Phase II treatment after Phase I?

Many patients who complete Phase I treatment still need Phase II treatment once the permanent teeth have erupted. Phase I can help guide early development, but Phase II is often needed to fully align the permanent teeth and bite.

Are braces or Invisalign better for teens?

Both can be good options. Braces may be better for certain complex movements or for teens who may not wear aligners consistently. Invisalign may be a good fit for responsible teens who want a more discreet option and can follow the treatment instructions.

How long does teen orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment time depends on your teen’s alignment, bite and treatment goals. Some cases are shorter, while more complex cases may take longer. Dr. Khan can provide a more personalized estimate after evaluating your teen’s smile.

Will my teen need retainers after treatment?

Yes. Retainers are an important part of maintaining orthodontic results after braces or Invisalign treatment. Our team will explain your teen’s retention plan when active treatment is complete.

Can my teen still play sports or an instrument with braces?

Yes. Many teens continue sports, music and other activities during orthodontic treatment. Our team can provide guidance on protecting the teeth and adjusting comfortably to braces or aligners.

Phase II Example Treatments

The examples below show different types of orthodontic treatment that may be considered during Phase II care. Your teen’s treatment plan will depend on their teeth, bite, jaw development and individual goals.

Schedule a Teen Orthodontic Consultation in Santa Monica

If your child is ready for braces, Invisalign or Phase II orthodontic treatment, Santa Monica Orthodontics can help you understand the best next step. Dr. Rehana Khan, DDS, MS, combines advanced orthodontic training, digital technology and years of experience to help teens achieve healthier, more confident smiles.

Call 310-393-3344 or request an appointment online to schedule a consultation for orthodontics for teens in Santa Monica, CA.

Request an Appointment