Teen Braces & Orthodontics in Bristol, VA & Kingsport, TN
Free Orthodontic Consultations | Accepts Most Insurances | TennCare & Virginia Medicaid Welcome
The teen years are one of the best times for orthodontic treatment — and at Tri-Cities Orthodontic Specialists, we make it easy for teens and their parents to feel confident about the process from day one. We offer a full range of braces and aligner options designed to fit every teen’s life, style, and treatment needs.
Overview
At Tri-Cities Orthodontics, we understand the unique pressures teens face — and we’ve built our teen orthodontic program to address them. Whether your teen is self-conscious about their smile, has a complex bite issue, or just needs a standard course of braces, our orthodontists create a personalized plan that respects their goals and their schedule.
We serve teens from Bristol, VA, Kingsport, TN, Johnson City, TN, and the surrounding Tri-Cities area.
Explore our Orthodontic Services
Adult Orthodontics
It’s never too late. We help adults in Bristol, VA and Kingsport, TN achieve straighter, healthier smiles with modern, discreet treatment options.
7 & Up Club (Kids Braces)
Early orthodontic evaluations for children aged 7 and older. Catching alignment issues early means simpler, shorter treatment down the road.
SureSmile® Clear Aligners
Straighten your teeth discreetly with virtually invisible aligners. A popular alternative to traditional braces for teens and adults in Bristol and Kingsport.
Dentofacial Orthopedics
Our team’s advanced training in dentofacial orthopedics allows us to treat not just how teeth are aligned, but how the entire facial structure develops.
Treatment Options for Teens
Every teen is different — so we offer a range of options to match different preferences, needs, and lifestyles:
Traditional Metal Braces
The most time-tested and cost-effective option. Today’s metal braces are more comfortable and lower-profile than ever. Teens can personalize with colored band options at each visit.
Clear Ceramic Braces
Tooth-colored brackets that blend with the smile for a less noticeable look, while delivering the same results as metal braces.
Lingual
Braces
Brackets placed on the inside surface of teeth, completely hidden from view.
SureSmile® Clear Aligners
Virtually invisible, removable aligners. Popular with teens who want flexibility. Requires strong compliance (20–22 hours/day wear).
Our orthodontists will help you and your teen weigh the pros and cons of each option during your free consultation.
FAQs
Treatment length depends on three main factors:
- The complexity of the alignment or bite issue being corrected
- How the teen’s bone and tissue responds to treatment
- Compliance — wearing appliances or aligners as directed makes a real difference
Most teen treatment is completed within 12–24 months. We’ll give you a specific, personalized estimate at your free consultation at our Bristol or Kingsport office.
The teen years — typically ages 11–17 — are when most comprehensive orthodontic treatment takes place. During this period, most permanent teeth have erupted and the jaws are still growing, which means teeth move more efficiently and treatment times can be shorter than for adults.
If your teen shows any of the following, schedule an evaluation sooner rather than later:
- Crowded, overlapping, or crooked teeth
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Noticeable jaw pain, clicking, or shifting
- Self-consciousness about their smile
- A dentist referral for orthodontic evaluation
Why Choose Tri-Cities?
Board-trained specialists — Our orthodontists have advanced residency training, not general dentists offering braces as a side service
Board-trained specialists
Our orthodontists have advanced residency training, not general dentists offering braces as a side service
Two convenient locations
Bristol, VA and Kingsport, TN, serving families across the entire Tri-Cities region
Kid-friendly environment
we work hard to make every visit comfortable and fun for young patients
Accepts most insurance plans
Accepts TennCare, and Virginia Medicaid with flexible monthly payment options to make care accessible for every family
Ready for a Straighter Smile?
Two convenient Tri-Cities locations to serve you: