ORTHODONTICS FOR TEENS
Orthodontics for teens in Paramus, NJ
The teen years are a great time to straighten a smile — braces or clear aligners, planned around school, sports, and real life.
Most of your teen's adult teeth are in, but the jaw is still growing — which makes these years a smart window to straighten a smile. At Say Cheez in Paramus, Dr. Lee Wu plans braces and clear aligners around your teen's schedule, and turns a visit they'd dread into one they don't mind.
What's included
Metal braces
The most proven option, and now sleeker and more comfortable. Metal braces handle even complex bites — and teens like personalizing them with colored bands.
Ceramic (clear) braces
Tooth-colored brackets that blend with the smile and work just as well as metal. A favorite for teens who are photo-conscious or on stage.
Clear aligners
Custom, nearly invisible trays that pop out for meals, sports, and brushing. A great fit for many mild-to-moderate cases when your teen wears them as directed.
TADs for complex cases
For tougher cases, small titanium anchors called TADs give braces extra support to move teeth precisely — useful for bite correction or a gummy smile.
Retainers after treatment
When the braces or aligners come off, a custom retainer holds the new smile in place. We coach both teen and parent on wearing it right.
What to expect at the visit
- 1 A consultation and smile assessment: Dr. Wu checks your teen's teeth, jaw, and bite with digital imaging, then walks through every option and answers your questions.
- 2 A personalized plan built around your teen's bite, lifestyle, and timeline — with the cost conversation handled up front.
- 3 Treatment placed with care, plus clear instructions so your teen knows exactly how to look after braces or aligners.
- 4 Regular check-ins every few weeks to adjust, track progress, and fit around school and activities — ending with a retainer to protect the results.
Why parents choose Say Cheez for this
- Dr. Lee Wu is board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics and graduated summa cum laude from Boston University.
- We treat only kids and teens, so we understand teenagers — not just their teeth.
- Orthodontist and pediatric dentist under one roof, sharing one chart — coordinated care with no outside referral.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
What's the best age for a teen to start orthodontics?
Many teens begin treatment between about 11 and 15, once most permanent teeth are in. We look at each case on its own, though — sometimes earlier care shortens the overall treatment.
How long does treatment usually take?
It varies with the case and how consistently your teen wears their braces or aligners. Many are in treatment around 12 to 24 months. You'll get a personalized estimate at the consultation.
Are clear aligners a good option for teens?
For many, yes. Aligners are removable for eating, sports, and brushing, and they're nearly invisible. They work best when worn as directed, so we talk honestly about fit at the consultation.
Do braces hurt?
There's usually some soreness or pressure for a few days as teeth start to move — that's normal. We send you home with tips, wax, and simple relief options, and our gentle techniques keep discomfort down.
How often will my teen need appointments?
Usually every four to eight weeks for a quick adjustment or progress check. We schedule around school and activities so visits don't take over your teen's week.
What about sports and big events?
We offer mouthguards that work with braces, and clear aligners come out for a game or a performance. Just build the habit of putting them back in right after.