Adolescent Orthodontics & Teen Braces in Mililani
Reviewed by Dr. David Dung, board-certified orthodontist
The teen years are often the ideal time for orthodontic treatment. Most permanent teeth have come in and the jaw is still growing, so crowding, spacing and bite problems can be corrected efficiently. At Mililani Orthodontics, our board-certified orthodontists treat Central Oʻahu teens with braces and Invisalign®, starting with a free exam.
When Should a Teen Get Braces?
Most teens begin treatment between ages 11 and 15, once enough permanent teeth have come in and while growth can still be guided. The best way to know your teen’s timing is a quick evaluation, and if your child saw us for early treatment, we already know their history and can start at exactly the right moment.
Most teen treatment runs about 18 to 24 months, with check-ins about every 8 to 10 weeks. We keep it efficient and encouraging, celebrating milestones along the way so your teen stays motivated all the way to the finish line.
Treatment Options for Teens
Today’s teens have great choices:
- Metal braces: durable, effective, and fun to personalize with colored elastics.
- Clear (ceramic) braces: the same reliability with a more discreet look.
- Invisalign® Teen: removable, nearly invisible aligners designed for teen life. As a Blue Diamond Invisalign Provider, we bring top-tier aligner experience.
Not sure which fits? Compare all options on our types of braces page, or we’ll recommend the best one at your visit.
Orthodontics That Fits a Teen’s Life
A teenager’s schedule is full: school, sports, music, friends. We work around it:
- Sports: braces and mouthguards work together; aligners come out for game day. Great for student athletes at Mililani High and the local leagues.
- Music: a little practice and wax make wind and brass instruments comfortable with braces.
- School: Saturday morning hours help keep treatment from disrupting class.
How Much Do Braces or Invisalign Cost for Teens?
The cost of teen treatment depends on whether your teen chooses braces or Invisalign Teen and how complex their case is. We’ll give you an exact fee at your teen’s free consultation, so there are no surprises.
Many dental plans include orthodontic benefits for teens, and our team will file your claims for you. For the remaining balance, we offer interest-free monthly payment plans starting around $200, and you can use HSA or FSA funds.
Why Parents Choose Mililani Orthodontics
For most families, a teen’s smile is a once-in-a-lifetime investment, and the doctor matters. Every orthodontist here is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics; we use comfortable iTero® digital scanning (no goopy impressions); and we accept and file all insurance plans with in-house, no-interest payment options. Most of all, we treat your teen like our own, with clear guidance and zero pressure. Meet the doctors who’ll care for your teen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age do teens usually get braces?
Most teens start orthodontic treatment between the ages of 11 and 15, once most permanent teeth have come in and while the jaw is still growing. A free evaluation is the best way to confirm your teen’s ideal timing.
Are braces or Invisalign better for my teen?
Both work well. The right choice depends on your teen’s bite, their habits, and their lifestyle. Braces are great for complex cases and need no daily discipline; Invisalign Teen is discreet and removable but requires consistent wear. See our Invisalign Teen page, and we’ll help you decide together.
Schedule Your Teen's Free Exam
Find out what’s possible for your teen’s smile. Schedule a free new-patient exam at our office inside the Town Center of Mililani, 95-1249 Meheula Pkwy #135.