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Every teenager has their own rhythm — from sports practices and social events to music lessons and weekend adventures. At Family Orthodontics of Jupiter, Dr. Christopher West understands that no two teen orthodontic cases are exactly alike. That’s why our office uses cutting-edge solutions from Align Technology, including advanced digital design tools and the innovative SmartTrack® material, to create individualized Invisalign treatment plans tailored to your teen’s unique smile and lifestyle.

With this proven system, we can carefully plan every stage of treatment digitally, helping achieve a straighter, healthier smile that often progresses up to 50% faster than traditional treatment options.* The process is more precise, more comfortable, and more flexible — a perfect match for today’s active teens who want their smile to keep pace with everything else they love to do.

Beginning the Journey: Personalized Planning With Digital Precision

Before any aligners are ever made, your teen’s Invisalign journey begins with digital imaging or a detailed impression. This scan gives Dr. West a digital foundation to map out exactly how each tooth will move from its current position to its ideal alignment. Every stage of the process is visualized before treatment begins, so parents and teens alike can see the anticipated outcome from day one.

Once the treatment plan is finalized, that digital blueprint guides the creation of a series of custom aligners. These aligners are crafted with Invisalign’s proprietary SmartTrack® material, designed for efficient, gentle, and predictable movement of teeth. Teens appreciate how comfortable the trays feel compared to traditional metal brackets and wires — and how little they interfere with daily life.

Life-Friendly Aligners for Busy Teens

Between school days, sports, and social events, today’s teens are constantly on the go. Invisalign clear aligners are meant to fit seamlessly into that pace. Worn approximately 22 hours each day, the aligners apply consistent, gentle pressure to gradually move teeth without the friction or irritation caused by metal braces.

Parents can easily monitor wear-time with a built-in compliance indicator on each set of trays — a helpful feature that ensures accountability and success throughout treatment. When it’s time for a meal or an important event, aligners can be removed effortlessly, allowing teens to continue enjoying their favorite foods, play wind instruments, or participate in games and performances without worry. Everyday moments stay enjoyable while progress continues quietly behind the scenes.

The Transformation: Confidence That Builds Step by Step

Every few weeks, your teen will transition to a new set of aligners, representing another small but meaningful step toward their ideal smile. Because aligners are replaced sequentially, you and your teen can watch their smile transform gradually and comfortably — no sudden adjustments or wire tightenings are needed.

For parents seeking peace of mind, Invisalign offers the Invisalign Teen Guarantee. If your teen decides within the first six months that they’d prefer traditional braces, you can switch treatment options confidently with no delay in progress. However, most teens find that the flexibility, comfort, and nearly invisible appearance of Invisalign make it their top choice all the way through.

What Sets Invisalign for Teens Apart

Choosing Invisalign for your teen comes with clear advantages that extend beyond aesthetics. This advanced system can correct both minor and complex orthodontic conditions while offering everyday convenience and confidence.

Here’s why both teens and parents love Invisalign treatment at Family Orthodontics of Jupiter:

• Treats a wide range of orthodontic needs, from simple crowding to more complex bite issues
• Covered by most orthodontic insurance plans
• Proprietary SmartTrack® material allows for up to 50% shorter treatment times*
• Reduced chance of emergencies from broken brackets or wires
• No painful adjustments — each new aligner feels smooth and custom-fit
• No food restrictions: eat popcorn, apples, and pizza just like before
• Removable trays make brushing and flossing simple and effective
• Studies show teens using Invisalign are twice as likely to report higher self-confidence during treatment**
• Fewer office visits compared to traditional braces — perfect for busy family schedules

These benefits work together to make Invisalign Teen not only an effective orthodontic solution but also a confidence-building, lifestyle-friendly experience.

Smiles That Keep Up With Life

As your teen navigates school, friendships, sports, and milestones, their smile should reflect their growing confidence and individuality. Invisalign treatment with Dr. Christopher West ensures that as they move forward in life, their smile progresses right along with them.

Our team at Family Orthodontics of Jupiter takes pride in crafting a supportive, encouraging environment for teens. We combine advanced digital orthodontic technology with compassionate care to deliver results that truly make a difference — inside and out.

If your teen is ready to explore how Invisalign can transform their smile, schedule a consultation with Dr. West today. Let’s create a custom orthodontic plan that fits your teen’s world and helps them smile through every step of it.

Dr. Christopher West has been part of the South Florida story for nearly five decades, growing up and building both his personal and professional life right here along the Atlantic coast. His journey from a local high school athlete to a respected orthodontist reflects the same determination and energy that define the vibrant community he serves.

Although he was born in Nassau, Bahamas, Dr. West has considered South Florida home since his family relocated here in 1979. He attended Palm Beach Gardens High School, where he discovered the importance of teamwork and discipline as a proud member of the Gardens Gators football program. Those early experiences on the field echoed a theme that would guide his life—commitment, leadership, and a drive to help others reach their potential.

With an early fascination for science and the natural world, he enrolled at Florida State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in biological science. After completing his undergraduate studies, Dr. West returned to the area that had shaped his youth, teaching science at Palm Beach Lakes High School. There, he brought energy and enthusiasm to the classroom while coaching soccer, swimming, and volleyball. His dual roles as educator and coach reflected a deep belief in balanced learning—combining intellectual discovery with physical fitness, teamwork, and character-building.

Eager to grow as both an educator and scientist, Dr. West continued his academic journey at Florida Atlantic University, where he received his Florida teaching certificate. However, even as he thrived in teaching, the idea of pursuing orthodontics remained a constant goal in the back of his mind. He saw dentistry as a perfect intersection of science, artistry, and human connection—a field where he could make a lasting impact on people’s confidence and self-esteem.

Before entering dental school, Dr. West advanced his education further by completing a master’s degree in environmental science. During this time, he combined his love of biology and the natural world with active fieldwork as head biologist for EnviroGlades, Inc. His role placed him at the center of South Florida’s environmental restoration efforts, working to preserve the region’s coral reefs, wetlands, and estuaries. The project instilled a deep appreciation for both the complexity and fragility of natural systems—lessons he continues to carry into his approach to patient care.

In 2001, Dr. West embarked on a new chapter, leaving South Florida for Philadelphia to attend Temple University’s School of Dentistry. His time at Temple marked a period of intense growth and accomplishment. He served as president of his dental class as well as president of the Temple University Society for the Study of Orthodontics, roles that reflected his natural ability to inspire collaboration and academic excellence. His dedication to both leadership and scholarship earned him the highest recognition—graduating summa cum laude with dual degrees: a Doctorate of Medical Dentistry (D.M.D.) and a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.).

Dr. West remained at Temple University to specialize further, completing his orthodontic residency and earning a Master of Science degree for his research evaluating the attachment effectiveness of Invisalign® aligners. This research laid the groundwork for his continued expertise in modern orthodontic techniques, particularly clear aligner therapy. Today, Dr. West is widely recognized for his skill in crafting precise, customized Invisalign treatment plans for both teens and adults, combining advanced technology with a warm, patient-centered approach.

Professional Leadership and Affiliations

Throughout his career, Dr. West has remained deeply engaged with the broader dental and orthodontic community. He is board certified and maintains active membership in several leading professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the Southern Association of Orthodontists, the Florida Association of Orthodontists, and the Florida Dental Association. His peers have also trusted him with leadership roles—he has served as a delegate for the Atlantic Coast District Dental Association and as a board member for the North Palm Beach Dental Society. These positions underscore his dedication to advancing both the science of orthodontics and the quality of patient care across the region.

Life Outside the Practice

Away from the office, Dr. West’s life is firmly rooted in the Jupiter community, where he lives with his wife, Shelley, and their two sons, Daxton and Porter. Family plays a central role in everything he does, from weekend adventures to everyday moments around their home. The Wests share a deep love for South Florida’s coastal lifestyle—surfing, boating, fishing, and scuba diving are regular parts of their lives. Whenever possible, the family also travels to enjoy snowboarding trips and outdoor exploration together, often accompanied by their beloved dog.

Balancing a busy professional life with family time and recreation is something Dr. West practices intentionally. Just as he encourages his patients to discover their best smiles, he strives to live out a philosophy of joy, connection, and health in his own life.

Dr. West and his family are proud to be active members of the Jupiter community, contributing not only through his orthodontic practice but also by participating in local activities and events that celebrate the area’s unique coastal culture. Through Family Orthodontics of Jupiter, Dr. West welcomes children, teens, and adults alike, inviting them to experience a supportive environment where clinical excellence meets genuine care—and where every smile begins with trust.

Caring for your braces is one of the most important parts of your orthodontic journey, no matter which type of treatment you choose. Thoughtful daily hygiene protects your teeth and gums, keeps your breath fresh, and helps your treatment stay on track. The better you care for your braces, the more confident you will feel when they come off and your new smile is revealed.

At Family Orthodontics of Jupiter, patients can choose from traditional metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign clear aligners. Each option needs a slightly different approach to daily care. Below are practical, easy-to-follow tips for keeping every type of braces clean and comfortable.

Why hygiene matters with braces

Braces and aligners create small spaces where food and plaque can hide. If they are not cleaned away, bacteria can build up and cause cavities, white spots on the enamel, gum irritation, and bad breath. Brushing and flossing carefully during treatment protects the teeth underneath your braces so your smile is as healthy as it is straight.

Good hygiene also supports efficient tooth movement. Clean teeth and healthy gums respond better to gentle orthodontic forces, which can help your treatment progress as planned and reduce the chance of delays.

Metal braces daily hygiene habits

Traditional metal braces remain a trusted choice for children, teens, and adults. Because the brackets and wires stay on your teeth all the time, staying on top of your routine is essential.

Key daily steps for metal braces:

• Brush after every meal with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the bristles above and below the brackets so you can clean along the gumline and under the wire.
• Use an interdental or “proxy” brush to reach under the wire and around each bracket where a regular brush may miss.
• Floss at least once per day using a floss threader or orthodontic floss so you can slide the floss under the wire and between each tooth.

Smart habits around food and comfort:

• Avoid sticky, chewy, or very hard foods that can bend wires, loosen brackets, or cling tightly around your braces. Examples include caramel, taffy, hard nuts, ice, and chewy candies.
• Rinse thoroughly with water or a gentle fluoride mouthwash after brushing to remove loosened debris.
• Check your smile in the mirror after meals to make sure there is no food stuck around your brackets or between teeth.

Clear ceramic braces protecting your appearance

Clear or ceramic braces work like metal braces but use brackets made from tooth-colored or clear materials. They are popular with teens and adults who want a more discreet look. Because they are more aesthetic, it is especially important to prevent staining and plaque buildup around the brackets.

Daily hygiene for clear braces:

• Brush after meals with a soft brush and non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. Pay close attention to the edges of the brackets and along the gumline, where plaque can become visible more quickly.
• Floss once a day using a floss threader or orthodontic floss. Clean gently under the wire and between each tooth to keep gums healthy and prevent white spots.
• Use an interdental brush to reach tight areas around brackets and under the wire.

Stain-prevention tips:

• Limit foods and drinks that can discolor the clear elastic ties, such as dark teas, coffee, red wine, tomato-based sauces, and certain spices. If you do enjoy them, rinse with water soon afterward.
• Avoid tobacco products, which are especially likely to stain clear ties and the areas of enamel around your brackets.
• Keep up with regular professional cleanings so your dental and orthodontic teams can remove hardened plaque and watch for early staining.

Invisalign clear aligners caring for teeth and trays

Invisalign clear aligners are a popular, removable option for many adults, teens, and some children. Because the trays fit closely over your teeth for most of the day, your teeth must be clean before you put the aligners back in your mouth. Aligners themselves also need daily care so they stay clear and comfortable.

Caring for your teeth with Invisalign:

• Brush thoroughly after every meal and snack before you reinsert your aligners. This keeps food particles and sugar from being trapped against your enamel.
• Floss at least once per day to remove plaque between teeth, where your toothbrush and aligners cannot reach.
• Consider using a fluoride mouth rinse once a day to help strengthen enamel during treatment.

Caring for your aligners:

• Rinse aligners with lukewarm water each time you remove them to wash away saliva and debris.
• Clean your trays at least once a day with a clear, unscented antibacterial soap or a recommended aligner-cleaning solution, using a soft toothbrush set aside just for this purpose.
• Avoid hot water, colored mouthwashes, and abrasive toothpaste on your aligners, because these can warp, stain, or scratch the plastic.

Wear-time and storage habits:

• Keep aligners in their case whenever they are not in your mouth to protect them from damage and bacteria.
• Follow your prescribed wear time, usually 20–22 hours per day, and remove aligners only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and cleaning.

Partnering with your orthodontic team

Regular visits to Family Orthodontics of Jupiter give your orthodontist the chance to monitor both tooth movement and oral health. At each appointment, the team can check your brushing and flossing, make recommendations, and answer questions about caring for your specific type of braces.

If you ever notice sore, puffy gums, new staining, or difficulty cleaning around a particular spot, bring it up at your next visit or call the office for guidance. A few extra minutes a day invested in good hygiene during treatment can mean a smoother experience, a healthier mouth, and a beautifully confident smile when your braces or aligners come off.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a planned, step-by-step process that guides jaw growth first and then fine‑tunes the teeth, giving children a healthier, more stable smile that can last well into adulthood. For many kids, this early, proactive approach can reduce the need for tooth extractions or jaw surgery later and support better function, confidence, and long-term oral health.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment in Jupiter, FL is especially valuable for growing children who show early signs of crowding, jaw imbalance, or bite problems. Instead of waiting until all permanent teeth are in and trying to fix everything at once, Dr. Christopher West at Family Orthodontics of Jupiter designs a timeline that matches each child’s unique growth pattern. This is not “more treatment” for the sake of it; it is smarter, more targeted timing that helps your child’s smile develop correctly from the ground up.

What Two-Phase Treatment Means

Two-phase orthodontic treatment combines early orthopedic guidance of the jaws with later comprehensive orthodontic treatment for the teeth. In Phase One, the focus is on how the jaws grow, how the upper and lower arches relate to each other, and whether there is enough space for the permanent teeth. In Phase Two, the attention shifts to precise alignment of every permanent tooth and fine‑tuning the bite.

Clinically, this approach recognizes that jaw growth and tooth eruption do not happen at the same time. By intervening during key growth windows, an experienced Jupiter orthodontist like Dr. West can influence the way the upper and lower jaws develop, which is something that is much harder—sometimes impossible—to correct once growth is complete. This allows the second phase of braces or clear aligners to be more efficient, more stable, and often more comfortable for your child.

Phase One: Building A Healthy Foundation

Phase One, sometimes called “early interceptive treatment,” usually starts around ages six to eight, when a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth are present. At this stage, signs such as significant crowding of the front teeth, crossbites, underbites, overbites, or an obviously narrow upper jaw indicate that two-phase orthodontic treatment may be beneficial. A child who habitually mouth-breathes, has difficulty chewing, or has a visibly asymmetrical jaw may also be an ideal candidate.

During Phase One, Dr. West may use appliances such as palatal expanders, space maintainers, limited braces on selected teeth, or functional orthopedic devices to guide jaw growth and create space. The goal is to:

• Correct jaw width problems (for example, a narrow upper jaw)
• Improve how the upper and lower jaws fit together
• Create sufficient room for erupting permanent teeth
• Reduce the risk of impacted teeth that get “stuck” in the bone
• Improve airway and oral function where possible

By resolving major structural and spacing issues early, Phase One sets a healthy foundation that makes later orthodontic treatment more predictable. Parents often see practical benefits quickly, such as improved chewing, clearer speech, and less trauma to protruding front teeth.

Resting Period: Growth With Guidance

After Phase One finishes, there is a planned “resting” period. During this time, the remaining permanent teeth are allowed to erupt naturally while the orthodontist monitors their progress. In many cases, no active appliances are worn so that tooth eruption is not restricted. Periodic check-ups with Dr. West allow him to:

• Track jaw growth and tooth eruption
• Decide if and when baby teeth should be removed to guide eruption
• Plan the ideal timing for Phase Two treatment

This resting period is a critical part of two-phase orthodontic treatment because it respects the body’s natural growth while keeping a professional eye on any developing issues. Parents gain peace of mind knowing that a specialist is regularly checking their child’s bite and facial development—not just reacting once a big problem appears.

Phase Two: Finishing The Smile For Life

Phase Two usually begins once all or nearly all permanent teeth have erupted, typically in early adolescence. This phase looks more like what most parents picture when they think of orthodontic treatment: full upper and lower braces or clear aligners to align the teeth and perfect the bite. Because Phase One already addressed jaw discrepancies and major crowding, Phase Two can focus on fine detail:

• Aligning each tooth into an ideal, functional position
• Coordinating the upper and lower arches for a stable bite
• Enhancing smile aesthetics, lip support, and facial balance
• Optimizing the way teeth meet for efficient chewing and long-term joint health

The objective is a bite where teeth, lips, cheeks, and tongue all work harmoniously. Once active treatment is complete, retainers maintain the results and protect your child’s new smile into adulthood.

Long-Term Benefits For Your Child

From a long-term standpoint, two-phase orthodontic treatment for children offers several important advantages:

• Reduced likelihood of permanent tooth extractions or jaw surgery later in life
• Lower risk of severe crowding, impacted canine teeth, or complex orthodontic problems in the teens
• Better development of facial balance and profile, which supports both function and appearance
• Improved chewing efficiency, speech, and oral comfort over decades—not just during childhood
• A more stable bite that is less likely to relapse, minimizing future retreatment needs

There is also a powerful emotional benefit. Children who grow up with a comfortable, attractive smile often feel more confident at school, in sports, in photos, and in social situations. Instead of worrying about protruding teeth, open bites, or crowded, crooked smiles, they can focus on being kids—learning, laughing, and engaging with the world.

Why Parents In Jupiter Choose Dr. Christopher West

For parents in Jupiter, FL searching for “two-phase orthodontic treatment,” “early orthodontic treatment for kids,” or “children’s braces in Jupiter,” the choice of provider matters just as much as the timing. Dr. Christopher West at Family Orthodontics of Jupiter combines advanced clinical training with a calm, kid‑friendly approach that helps children feel safe and understood.

Every child receives a thorough evaluation that may include digital X‑rays, photos, and models of the teeth to determine whether one-phase or two-phase orthodontic treatment is truly indicated. Dr. West does not recommend early treatment unless there is a clear clinical benefit; when two-phase care is advised, he explains the reasons in plain language so parents can make informed decisions. Families appreciate that they are guided, not pressured, and that each plan is tailored to the child rather than a cookie‑cutter protocol.

If you are a parent in Jupiter or the surrounding communities and you are wondering whether your child should start braces now or wait, a consultation for two-phase orthodontic treatment with Dr. West is the best next step. You will learn whether early treatment is necessary, what appliances might be used, how long each phase is likely to last, and how this investment can protect your child’s long-term oral health. Taking the time to evaluate two-phase orthodontic treatment today may spare your son or daughter from more invasive, complicated treatment tomorrow—and give them the confident, healthy smile they deserve for life.