When your teenager finds out that they need to get braces, they’re likely to be less than happy about the news. They might be worried about their peers making fun of them for their appearance or that the orthodontic process will hurt. It’s important to take whatever steps you can to ease their concerns so that they feel more prepared for the treatment. Here are a few tips for getting your teenager ready for braces.
Talk About the Benefits of Braces
To help your teen be more receptive about getting braces, it’s a good idea to emphasize the benefits of the treatment, such as:
- An Improved Appearance and Boosted Confidence: Braces can let your teen achieve a straighter smile, which can go a long way toward helping them feel more confident about the way they look.
- Enhanced Oral Health: Misaligned teeth often wear down faster, and they tend to be at a higher risk for cavities because they’re more difficult to thoroughly clean. Straightening your teenager’s teeth with braces can help protect them from these types of oral health issues.
- Improved Eating: Does your teen have trouble eating because of crooked teeth or a misaligned bite? Correcting orthodontic issues with braces can make it more comfortable for them to bite and chew their food.
Address Any Questions Your Teen Might Have
Your teen is likely to have several questions about braces, such as “What will I be able to eat with braces?” and “Will braces hurt?” Take the time to answer their questions to the best of your ability, and offer to do research with them if they ask something you don’t know. The more informed your teen feels about braces, the more prepared they’ll be for the treatment.
Make Sure They Know That They’re Not Alone
If your teen is worried about being made fun of for wearing braces, it can help to make sure that they don’t feel alone. You could point out that many other people their age need to undergo the treatment as well. This can go a long way toward normalizing the idea of braces and easing your teen’s anxiety.
Wearing braces could be an essential step for improving your teenager’s oral health and quality of life. Taking the time to address their anxiety and ease their worries is important for helping them have a more positive attitude about the process.
About the Author
Dr. Megan Hanson earned her dental degree at The University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston, and she completed a two-year orthodontic residency to earn a Certificate in Orthodontics. She has been published in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics and the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics. She enjoys helping teenagers and adults alike straighten their smiles with time-tested traditional braces. If someone in your family may need braces, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Hanson at Hanson Orthodontics of Allen by visiting her website or calling (972) 727-1153.