Let’s be honest: convincing a teen to get excited about braces is right up there with asking them to clean their room without being asked twice! But with the right team, tools, and treatment plan that works with their lifestyle, orthodontic care can be something they actually look forward to. That’s exactly what Dr. Chartrand makes happen at Chartrand Orthodontics, where expert care meets real connection and a whole lot of local flavor. Let’s break down what Omaha parents need to know when it’s time to talk teeth with teens.
Snapchats, Soccer, and Second Molars
Between homework at Westside, late-night TikToks, and weekend trips to Aksarben Village, teens have a lot going on. So it’s no surprise that orthodontic care might not be the first thing on their mind, but it’s one of the smartest moves to make during this phase of life. Why? Because their jaws are growing too, which makes orthodontic treatment more efficient.
Dr. Chartrand often starts seeing teens for treatment between ages 11 and 15, when most adult teeth are in place and the bone is still flexible enough to help everything settle where it belongs. Add in advanced tech like 3D imaging and digital scans, and the process feels less clinical and more custom-fit.
Before we get into the options, let’s talk about how Chartrand Orthodontics uses that tech to make treatment feel smoother (and a whole lot faster!)
The Tech Teens Actually Appreciate
We know most teens aren’t excited about anything that sounds remotely medical. But when you swap out old-school molds and guesswork for sleek digital scans and high-resolution 3D images, the game changes. At Chartrand Orthodontics, Dr. Chartrand uses smart tech to keep appointments quick, comfortable, and as stress-free as possible.
Here’s how it works:
iTero® Digital Scanning
No more trays full of goopy material. iTero captures a complete digital scan of your teen’s teeth in minutes, making it easier to create custom aligners or prep for braces without the mess.
i-CAT™ 3D Imaging
This tech gives the doctors a clear view of your teen’s teeth, jaw, and facial structure in incredible detail—all in a single scan. That means more accurate planning and faster results.
Teens love it because it’s fast and non-invasive. Parents love it because it makes treatment more precise and efficient. And next, we’ll cover the part everyone wants to know: What are the actual treatment options?
Braces, Bands & Clear Plans
Orthodontic treatment has to work in the real world, where your teen might have a debate meet one day and a chipped bracket the next. That’s why Dr. Chartrand offers options that flex with unpredictable schedules, evolving tastes, and the occasional snack that tests the limits. Here’s what might land in their lineup:
Metal Braces with a Modern Twist
These aren’t the bulky brackets from ‘90s yearbooks. Today’s versions are lower profile and surprisingly comfortable, with color bands teens can swap out faster than a Spotify playlist.
Clear Braces That Keep Things Subtle
Want the power of traditional braces without the flash? Ceramic brackets blend in with natural teeth, so they do their job without stealing the spotlight in school photos.
Invisalign® Teen for the Win
Removable, see-through, and great for selfies! These aligners are a favorite for teens who want flexibility without the hardware. Just remember: they only work when they’re worn (looking at you, forgetful sax players!)
Angel Aligners with a Two-Step Twist
This clear aligner system uses a dual-phase approach: first, a softer tray, then a firmer one (which guides teeth more precisely.) They’re nearly invisible, stain-resistant, and built for comfort, making them a strong choice for teens who want structure and subtlety.
So, what does life look like once the braces or aligners go on? Let’s break that down next.
What to Expect After the First Appointment
Once treatment kicks off, life doesn’t hit pause. It just comes with a few new habits! The good news? Dr. Chartrand and the team at Chartrand Orthodontics make sure the day-to-day feels manageable, even for teens with jam-packed calendars.
Here’s what that usually looks like:
- Getting Used to the Gear: The first few days come with an adjustment period, but most teens settle in fast. Braces might feel strange at first, and aligners require a little discipline. It’s nothing teens can’t handle with a little support!
- Food Tweaks, Not a Menu Overhaul: Sticky, crunchy, and super-chewy foods are off the table with braces, but there’s still plenty to love—especially in a city with this many snack spots. (Soft-serve from Ted & Wally’s is still fair game.)
- Staying Active and Involved: Braces and aligners won’t slow your teen down. Sports, music, theater: treatment is designed to fit into whatever they’re passionate about, not pull them away from it.
Next up, let’s talk about how parents can help keep everything on track without turning into the “Did you wear your aligners?” police.
How Parents Can Keep Things Moving Without Micromanaging
Teens thrive on independence, but a little quiet support behind the scenes can make a big difference during treatment. Staying on top of aligner wear, oral hygiene, and appointment schedules doesn’t have to feel like a full-time job.
Set reminders for tray changes, stash a travel kit in their backpack, and make checkups part of a low-stress routine (bonus points for grabbing a treat afterward!) Dr. Chartrand works with parents to keep communication easy and expectations clear. No lectures required!
With a supportive team and a plan that fits your family’s rhythm, orthodontic care doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Chartrand Orthodontics makes it easy to stay on track, so your teen can focus on being a teen, and you can feel confident knowing they’re in good hands.
Your Teen’s Smile: Omaha Approved
Orthodontic care with Chartrand Orthodontics makes the whole experience something your teen can feel good about. Dr. Chartrand and his Omaha-based team bring a mix of advanced tools, real conversations, and a whole lot of care to every appointment. Schedule your free consultation at their Pacific Street office and see how orthodontic care can fit into your teen’s life without turning it upside down!