Making a decision for orthodontic treatment can be tough, especially for our teenage patients. They have so much going on during this stage of life, but with guidance from Smiles of Palmetto Bay, we can help make sure your teen is on track for the best possible treatment. Let’s talk about how to prepare your teen for getting braces.
1. Start with a Positive Conversation
A parent’s attitude toward braces can greatly influence how their teen feels about the process. We recommend talking openly about why orthodontic treatment is important and the benefits it brings—from improved long-term oral health to a smile they’ll be able to embrace.
Reassure your teen that they’re not alone. Many of their peers are going through similar treatment. Normalizing braces can help reduce anxiety and boost their self-esteem from the get-go.
2. Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation
Did you know that your first orthodontic consultation is completely free? This experience allows your teenager to meet Dr. Ross and Dr. Iglesias and have candid conversations about their goals for treatment. One of our doctors will assess your teen’s teeth, bite, and jaw alignment using our latest diagnostic tools.
3. Understand the Treatment Options
Education is empowering, which is why it’s important to be familiar with our treatment options, since they accommodate a variety of lifestyles and needs. We have three great options, all of which can work for teens in special ways:
- Metal Braces: Traditional, time-tested, and highly effective, metal braces are durable, reliable, and often the best option for complex alignment issues.
- Clear Ceramic Braces: These braces work like metal ones but blend in more naturally with a person’s teeth, making them a popular choice for teens who want a more discreet look at school.
- Invisalign Clear Aligners: Custom-made, removable trays that are nearly invisible might sound particularly appealing to a teenager. Invisalign is ideal for responsible teens who are committed to wearing their aligners 20-22 hours a day.
Remember that every choice will have its pros and cons, and this really depends on each patient’s individual differences.
4. Discuss Alignment Issues
We’ll be able to provide you with a clear explanation of what your treatment will entail, including what issues are being targeted in treatment. Patients will often have some combination of the following:
- Crowding: Not enough room in the mouth, causing teeth to overlap.
- Spacing: Too much space between teeth, which may be due to missing teeth or abnormal jaw growth.
- Overbite: The upper front teeth sit too far over the lower teeth.
- Underbite: The lower teeth extend past the upper teeth.
- Crossbite or Open Bite: Misalignment that affects how the upper and lower teeth meet.
5. Plan for the First Few Days
Once your teen has received their appliance, it can be helpful to know what to expect initially. There are plenty of steps you can take to make the initial transition run smoothly. If your teen has just gotten braces, we recommend you:
- Stock up on soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Also, have a solid plan on a viable diet to stick to for the rest of the treatment (aka foods to avoid).
- Use orthodontic wax to ease irritation from brackets.
- Keep over-the-counter pain relievers on hand to rein in soreness.
- Remind them that the soreness after they get their appliance (and future adjustments) is temporary and usually fades within a few days.
6. Encourage Responsibility and Consistency
Orthodontic treatment is a test of discipline for a lot of teenagers (though usually with great results). It’s also a partnership between your teen, their orthodontist, and you. Encourage your teen to:
- Wear their appliances exactly as instructed (especially with Invisalign).
- Attend all scheduled appointments on time.
- Follow care guidelines provided by Dr. Ross or Dr. Iglesias, which will include a strict oral hygiene regimen based on the respective appliance and treatment plan.
Consistency leads to better results and often shortens treatment time! Practice makes perfect.
7. Stay Connected with Your Orthodontic Team
At Smiles of Palmetto Bay, we’re here for you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns between appointments—no question is an unimportant question.
We believe in open communication and providing support that makes this experience smooth and successful for both you and your teen!
Finally: Leave Room for Celebration!
Active encouragement and support are fundamental to successful orthodontic treatment, and as we said, teenagers are generally experiencing a lot on top of their treatment. So, let us partner with you to be their greatest cheerleader. Come see us soon in Palmetto Bay!