Teenagers are under immense pressure to fit in with their peers, especially so in this day and age. That's why trying to explain to them that they probably need braces will often be like trying to perform a root canal on yourself. Not only can braces be painful and awkward when it comes to eating, but for many teens braces are a disaster that will all but ruin any social status they might have worked hard on up to this point.
The truth is that today, more teens and adults than ever before are opting to wear braces. The nerd factor is no longer the issue it once was.
But just how do you convince your stubborn teenage son or daughter that braces will do them more good than harm?
Show Them that Braces are No Longer Nerdy
Braces are no longer the metallic monstrosities they once were. In fact, mega stars like Ryan Seacrest and Gwyneth Paltrow wore braces when they were growing up and today they have perfectly aligned teeth. Tom Cruise didn't get braces until he was 40. That says a lot for modern braces.
Let Them Talk to Their Dentist
A chat with your teen's dentist will not only help to allay any fears they might have, but it will also remind them of the short term and long term benefits. Hearing the pros and cons from a dentist may encourage them to go ahead with it.
Consider Getting Invisalign Aligners Instead
As image is always a concern with teens and braces, you could opt for Invisalign aligners instead. Although they tend to be the most expensive option available, they are almost invisible; therefore, they will have little impact on your teenager's confidence. Like braces, Invisalign aligners work to straighten your child's teeth but, unlike braces, they resemble mouth guards and are made of a clear, almost invisible, plastic.
With the right blend of support and encouragement, your teenager will likely come around to the idea of wearing braces to correct their crooked smile. Oftentimes, it is the myths surrounding braces that put teenagers off. However, once you and your family dentist put their fears to rest they should no longer view braces with such trepidation. In the rare case that your son or daughter vehemently refuses to wear braces no matter what, don't force them as wearing braces requires a lot of commitment and dedication. If that is lacking then the results won't be as favourable as they might have been.
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