The Summer Glow Up: Starting Orthodontic Treatment While School Is Out

Summer is the single busiest season for orthodontic offices in South Jersey. And for good reason. Starting braces or Invisalign while school is out gives kids and teens the time to adjust, adapt and walk back into the halls of their school feeling like a brand-new version of themselves.

Why Summer Is the Best Time to Start Orthodontic Treatment

If you've been thinking about scheduling your child's orthodontic consultation, stop putting it off. June, July, and August are prime time and families throughout Mount Laurel, Marlton, Voorhees, Cherry Hill and Medford already know it. Summer consistently brings our highest volume of new patient starts and it's not a coincidence.

Here's why summer works so well:

No school-day disruptions. The first few weeks of treatment come with an adjustment period (soreness, new oral hygiene habits, and the occasional appliance curiosity). Summer gives kids time to settle in without missing class or feeling self-conscious in front of friends right away.

More flexibility for appointments. Without the morning rush and after-school conflicts, it's far easier to schedule consultations, bonding appointments and follow-ups. Families aren't squeezing ortho visits between soccer practice and homework.

A built-in confidence boost before school starts. By the time September rolls around, teeth have started to align and your child has adjusted (mentally and physically). They often feel genuinely proud of the journey they've started. That's the glow up. Not just the smile, but the confidence that comes with taking action.

What to Expect in the First Weeks of Treatment

Whether your child is starting traditional braces or clear aligners, the first few weeks are the biggest adjustment. Here's what families can expect:

Braces

• Mild soreness for 3–5 days after braces are placed — totally normal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods
• A short learning curve for brushing and flossing around brackets and wires
• Possible irritation on the inside of the cheeks until the soft tissue toughens up

Having these occur during summer break (rather than school picture week) makes a real difference in how kids experience the start of treatment.

Clear aligners for Teens

• New aligners come with a brief tightness that eases within 24–48 hours
• Teens need to wear trays 20–22 hours per day, which is easier to track and reinforce over summer when schedules are more relaxed
• Compliance builds great habits before school year distractions kick in

Want to understand more about what separates the two options? Read our post on Orthodontics for All Ages to see which treatment path might be the best fit for your child.

Is Your Child Ready? Signs It's Time to Start

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic check-up by age 7. But many families don't bring their kids in for a full evaluation until middle school and summer is the perfect window to act on what you've been noticing.

Common signs your child may be ready for treatment:

• Crowded, overlapping or crooked teeth
• An overbite, underbite or crossbite
• Difficulty chewing or biting properly
• Baby teeth that fell out too early or too late
• Teeth that don't come together when the mouth closes

If your child hasn't been seen yet and they're between 7 and 10, then please explore our page on Early Interceptive Orthodontics (Phase 1). Some kids benefit from early intervention before full braces are even needed.

The Amazing Brace Difference in South Jersey

Amazing Brace Orthodontics isn't your typical orthodontic office. We're a boutique practice right off Route 38 in Mount Laurel, designed to feel more like a home and less like a clinical waiting room. Complimentary beverages, flat-screen TVs, and Chester, the comfort corgi, make appointments feel like anything but a chore.

As a board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Tish Henderson brings precision, warmth and genuine care to every consultation. She treats patients of all ages — from kids starting Phase 1 treatment to adults finally investing in the smile they've always wanted. Speaking of which, if you're a parent thinking about your own smile while you're scheduling for your child, you're not alone. Read our post on Adult Braces in South Jersey: It's Never Too Late.

We serve families throughout Mount Laurel, Marlton, Voorhees, Cherry Hill, Medford, Moorestown and beyond.

A Word From Your OrthodonTish

Summer is my favorite time of year at my office. Not just because we're busy, but because I get to see families who are finally ready to say yes to a smile they've been thinking about for months.

I work with a lot of middle schoolers and high schoolers and I'll be honest: the kids who start in June walk back into school in September with a completely different energy. They've had the summer to get used to their braces or their aligner trays, they've figured out what they can and can't eat at the boardwalk and by the time school pictures roll around, they're not embarrassed- they're excited!

I also love summer starts because parents are more available. I have real conversations with moms and dads who aren't stressed from the school-year chaos. We talk about treatment timelines, what to expect, payment options. All of it. At my office, that conversation matters. We're a boutique office, which means you're not a number. You're a family.

If you've been waiting for the "right time," this is it. Schedule a free consultation before our summer slots fill up.

— Dr. Tish Henderson, Board-Certified Orthodontist, Amazing Brace Orthodontics, Mount Laurel, NJ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Most cases take between 12 and 24 months depending on the complexity of the case, the type of treatment and how well the patient follows care instructions. During your free consultation, Dr. Tish will give you a realistic timeline based on your child's specific needs.

Does my child need a referral to start at Amazing Brace Orthodontics?

No referral is needed. You can book directly through our online scheduling portal. The initial consultation is free.

Is summer really the best time to start braces?

It's one of the best times, especially for school-age children. The first few weeks of treatment involve an adjustment period so having that happen over summer means less disruption to your child's school day, social life and self-confidence.

What's the difference between braces and Invisalign for teens?

Both are highly effective when used correctly. Traditional braces are fixed to the teeth and don't require as much daily discipline. Invisalign Teen uses clear, removable trays that are nearly invisible. They're ideal for kids who are extremely responsible about wearing them consistently. Dr. Tish will walk you through which option makes the most sense for your child during your consultation.

What age is best for orthodontic treatment?

The AAO recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, though most comprehensive treatment (braces or Invisalign) begins between ages 11 and 14. Every child develops differently — the best way to know is to come in for an evaluation.

Will my child's braces require special care during summer activities?

Yes, a few adjustments help. Mouthguards are essential for sports and certain foods (sticky candy, hard foods, ice, etc.) should be avoided. Read our post on Orthodontic Appliance Care for everything you need to know before summer travel and activities kick off.

Does Amazing Brace Orthodontics offer flexible payment options?

Yes. We understand that orthodontic care is an investment and we work with families to find a payment plan that fits their budget. Reach out to our team directly to discuss options — admin@amazingbraceortho.com or call (856) 242-2126.

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Ready to start the glow up? Book your free consultation today and let's make this the summer your child's smile transforms.

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Amazing Brace Orthodontics | 4200 Dearborn Circle, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054 | (856) 242-2126 | Serving Mount Laurel, Marlton, Voorhees, Cherry Hill, Medford, Moorestown, and the greater South Jersey area.

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