Amid their awkward teenage years, the last topic your child will want to discuss is braces. However, it’s an important conversation to have if their dentist strongly recommends correcting crooked teeth or bite issues. The guide below will help you approach the topic gently and find the right option for your teen.

Communication Tips

Start by opening up a dialogue with your teen to find out what is bothering them. If you’re unsure where to begin, here’s how you can ease their worries:

• Ask About Their Concerns: Be an active listener and avoid dismissing their fears, as they could be afraid that the procedure to install braces is painful. Assure them that it will not hurt, although there might be some soreness after the appointment. Do research or ask their dentist if you can’t answer their questions.
• Address Self-Consciousness: Most teens that push back against braces are worried about their appearance. Adolescents undergo many physical changes as they grow, and dental appliances can exacerbate confidence issues. Remind your child that this is a standard treatment even some celebrities need.
• Promote the Benefits: Be positive and explain the benefits of this treatment. Braces are temporary, and if your child has misaligned teeth, these dental appliances will correct these problems. By enhancing their smile, they gain a major confidence boost. It can also make brushing teeth and flossing easier, potentially reducing the buildup of plaque that causes tooth decay and cavities.

Different Options for Braces

Traditional

Traditional wire-and-bracket braces are the most well-known option for dental appliances. An orthodontist will glue metal brackets to the teeth and connect them by wires, which will need adjusting over time. Although they are the most noticeable option, they are also highly effective.

Ceramic

Ceramic braces have the same structure as metal ones but have ceramic brackets. They are clear or tooth-colored to reduce visibility. However, depending on your teen’s specific orthodontic issue, they might not be an option.

Invisalign®

Invisalign is a popular choice for teenagers because they are virtually invisible. An orthodontist will custom-fit a set of clear dental trays to your child’s teeth, which they must remove as they eat, floss, and brush. These braces are comfortable and can help your child feel more confident about their looks while improving the alignment of their teeth. 

With Invisalign, you also won’t have to restrict what your teen eats. In contrast, having traditional or ceramic braces means steering clear of fibrous and sticky foods. Your child needs to wear the clear aligners consistently for the treatment to work, but if your teen can commit, they could be a suitable candidate.

If your teen needs braces, visit Lamont Jacobs Orthodontics in Fairfield, OH. This family-owned practice will help your family achieve straighter, healthier smiles. They offer various solutions to target your child’s unique orthodontic needs, including Invisalign, metal, gold, and ceramic braces. Learn more about their treatment options online, and call (513) 829-7045 to make an appointment.