How To Help Your Teen Embrace Braces
Braces are an important orthodontic tool that improves your smile and more importantly, your overall dental health. However, the average teenager doesn't view braces as favorably. If your provider has determined braces are the best course of action, but your teen is resistant, there are things you can do to help.
Listen to Their Concerns
If your child is voicing a concern, take the time to hear them out. For a child struggling with the idea of braces, the last thing they want to feel is ignored. Listening to their concerns provides an excellent opportunity for you to gain perspective about what exactly is bothering them, such as how their appearance will change with braces or a fear that they won't be able to enjoy the foods they love with braces. You can then use this information to dispel any untruths.
Choose Clear Braces
Dental technology has made record strides in the area of orthodontics. Now, metal braces are but one option. Your teen may also be a candidate for clear braces. Clear braces function in the same manner that traditional braces in that they are a corrective tool. However, they fit over the teeth somewhat like a mouth guard, and their clear style makes them undetectable. For a teen with serious concerns, clear braces are especially accommodating.
Highlight the Outcome
In some instances, your teen might just need a little bit of help putting everything into perspective. One thing people often forget about braces is the fact that they are used to correct and prevent problems. If a provider has prescribed braces, there is a valid reason why. Ensure your teen understands the specific circumstances under which they need braces and how this treatment will improve their dental health going forward. Their provider can help you with this step.
Be Patient
It's imperative that you remain patient. Every child has a different way in which they process information. For one child, embracing braces might be a process that only takes a day, but for another child, it might take longer. When scheduling their installation appointment, give your child a little leeway to determine whether they want to have their appointment right away or maybe take a couple of weeks to process everything before going forward. Giving them this control can help significantly.
Sit down and discuss your child's concerns with an orthodontist at offices like Brian Smith Orthodontics to determine the best course of action for your situation.