Is My Teen Ready for Braces?
Most teens begin comprehensive orthodontic treatment once all their permanent teeth have come in, typically around age 12 to 13. At your teen’s complimentary consultation, we will take a low-dose orthodontic x-ray and digital scans to assess their teeth, bite, and jaw development.
From there, Dr. Gorton will walk you through a clear, honest recommendation and a personalized treatment plan with a realistic timeline before any treatment begins
Why Marin Ortho for Braces?
Our doctors were part of the group that helped develop the self-ligating bracket system, and we have been using it longer than any other orthodontic practice in the area. Both doctors are actively involved in every patient’s treatment from start to finish, and our entire clinical team is highly trained in every orthodontic technique available. We have one goal for every teen who comes through our doors: a smile that makes them say wow.
Which Type of Braces Is Right for My Teen?
We offer three types of braces at Marin Ortho, and every one of them uses our self-ligating system for a more comfortable, more efficient experience. Dr. Gorton will help you choose the right option at your consultation based on your teen’s needs, anatomy, and personal preference.
Self-Ligating KLOwen Custom Prescription Braces
KLOwen brackets are our most advanced option and the one we are most proud to offer. Every bracket is custom prescribed and fabricated for each individual patient based on their unique tooth anatomy, and the self-ligating design eliminates elastic rings entirely, meaning less friction, more accurate movement, easier cleaning, and a more comfortable experience throughout treatment.
KLOwen compare favorably to other newer options on the market. Generic 3D-printed brackets can introduce dimensional inconsistencies and higher friction. Some clear bracket systems are prone to breakage at the bracket wings. KLOwen brackets are engineered to avoid both of those issues.
Best suited for: Patients who want the most precise, efficient, and technologically advanced braces option available.
Metal Braces
Metal braces are durable, reliable, and highly effective across a wide range of cases. At Marin Ortho, our metal braces use the self-ligating system, which means less friction, greater comfort, and easier cleaning compared to traditional metal braces with elastic rings.
For teens who want to personalize their look, metal braces come with a wide selection of elastic colors to change at every visit. Choose colors to match their style, their school colors, their favorite team, or the upcoming season. Since elastics are changed every 4 to 8 weeks, there is always a new combination to try.
Best suited for: Teens who want a reliable, proven appliance with the option to personalize their look at every visit.
Clear Braces
For teens who prefer a more subtle look, we offer clear braces that stay clear and strong throughout the entire course of treatment. Unlike older generations of clear braces prone to staining, our clear brackets maintain their appearance from the first day to the last, with rounded corners for added comfort.
Because we want every patient to choose freely based on personal preference, the fee for clear braces is identical to metal braces and Invisalign. The price is based solely on the complexity of treatment, never on the appliance chosen.
Best suited for: Teens who want the effectiveness of braces with a more discreet, low-profile appearance.
How Do I Know Braces Are a Good Fit for My Teen?
Braces are an excellent option for a wide range of teen patients. If your teen falls into any of the categories below, we encourage you to schedule a complimentary consultation so we can evaluate their specific needs.
- Teens with crowding, spacing, or bite concerns who are ready for comprehensive treatment
- Patients who prefer a fixed appliance that works continuously without daily management
- Teens who want to personalize their smile with color options at every visit
- Patients whose case complexity makes braces the strongest clinical choice
- Families looking for a practice with deep, proven expertise and custom precision hardware
Real Results From Our Patients
Every smile below belongs to an adult treated at Marin Ortho. These are real patients, real timelines, and real results achieved with braces as part of a personalized treatment plan.
Results vary by patient. Treatment length depends on the complexity of the case and the patient's anatomy and goals. Your personalized timeline will be discussed at your complimentary consultation.
