

Evaluation for Teens
Orthodontic evaluation during adolescence focuses on dental alignment, bite relationships, and the interaction between facial growth and tooth eruption.
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This stage often coincides with active skeletal development, making timing and sequencing important considerations.
The purpose of evaluation is to determine whether orthodontic care is indicated and, if so, how treatment may be planned to work with remaining growth while respecting individual biologic limits.
What is Assessed During Adolescence
Clinical assessment considers tooth eruption status, arch coordination, space conditions, and transverse, sagittal and vertical jaw relationships.
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Growth status and skeletal maturity are evaluated to guide treatment timing and sequencing rather than relying on chronological age alone.
Functional findings relevant to occlusion and jaw relationships may also be reviewed when they influence orthodontic planning.
Possible Treatment Pathways
Based on individual clinical findings, care during adolescence may involve active orthodontic treatment to guide alignment and bite relationships during growth, or continued monitoring when immediate intervention is not indicated.
In some cases, treatment may be staged, with initial correction undertaken during adolescence and additional refinement planned after growth completion, depending on treatment objectives and biologic response.
Timing of Follow-up and Progression
When treatment is deferred or phased, follow-up visits may be recommended to monitor growth, tooth eruption, and changes in bite relationships over time.​
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Decisions regarding initiation, progression, or modification of care are individualized and guided by observed developmental changes rather than predetermined schedules.
Explore related orthodontic information
Additional information about orthodontic care at different stages of development is available below.