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Convincing Your Teenager to Have Orthodontic Treatment

Published: Nov 17, 2023 Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025
Convincing your teenager to have orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatment is a big step for a teenager. Preparing your child for braces or clear aligners can be challenging. Many teens worry about how they’ll look, how treatment will feel, or how it might disrupt their daily lives.

We turned to our trusted orthodontists to create a helpful guide to help you address their concerns in a supportive way. These practical tips will help you navigate the conversation towards a shared understanding of the benefits of braces treatment.

1. Start with the Benefits of Orthodontics

The first step is to explain how teens orthodontic treatment can improve their oral health. Focus on the long-term benefits, such as:

  • Improved confidence: Straight teeth often lead to a better-looking smile, which can boost self-esteem.
  • Improved oral health: Crooked and misaligned teeth are harder to clean and can lead to cavities, tooth decay and gum disease. Braces help create a healthier, more manageable smile.
  • Future convenience: Addressing orthodontic issues now can prevent the need for more complex (and costly) treatment later in life.

By helping your child understand how treatment can help them in the future, they may be more willing to embrace it and view it more favourably.

2. Involve Them in the Process

Teenagers are more likely to cooperate when they feel they have a say. Invite your child to the initial consultation with your orthodontist. Your child will be able to ask questions directly. Your orthodontist will take the time to answer all their questions.

Your orthodontic will also use digital imaging to show you child how their smile could look. This is a powerful tool that can motivate even the most resistant teens.

Letting your child explore the various treatment options will create a feeling of being in control. Depending on their individual requirements, choices may include braces, clear braces or clear aligners. Offering the freedom to choose can make a big difference in their attitude.

3. Address Their Concerns

Teens often have concerns about braces or aligners. These may come from various places and your orthodontists will be sure to listen to your child without dismissing their feelings. Some common worries include:

  • Appearance of their smile: They may worry about looking “awkward” with braces. Assure them that braces are common among teens and even adults, so they won’t stand out.
  • Comfort: Explain that while there may be some initial discomfort, they’ll quickly adjust to wearing braces or aligners.
  • Impact on lifestyle: Some teens may worry about eating restrictions, sports, or playing musical instruments.

By showing empathy and offering solutions, you can ease their fears.

4. Share Orthodontic Before and Afters

Hearing from peers, friends or family who’ve had braces can be reassuring. If someone they know has completed treatment and loves their new smile, encourage them to share their experience.

Testimonials and Google Reviews will also provide insights about treatment and your chosen orthodontists. Seeing positive examples can help your teen feel more confident about their own treatment.

Teenage gril
 with braces during orthodontic treatment at MP Ortho in Cheltenham Victoria

5. Focus on Short-Term Goals

The idea of wearing braces for one to two years might feel overwhelming to a teenager. Breaking treatment down into smaller steps will make the process less daunting.

  • 1-3 months: Encourage them to focus on adjusting to the new routine.
  • Progress checks: Celebrate visible improvements as their teeth begin to shift.
  • End goal: Remind them how amazing their smile will look once treatment is complete.

Creating a countdown or rewarding them for milestones can also keep them motivated on their journey towards a healthy and beautiful smile.

6. Offer Practical Support

Preparing for success during orthodontic treatment will make the journey as smooth as possible. Our orthodontists recommend:

  • Stock up on orthodontic-friendly and soft foods, especially during the first few weeks.
  • Invest in tools like orthodontic toothbrushes or wax to ease discomfort.
  • Be their biggest supporter, offering encouragement when they feel frustrated.

When teens feel supported, they’re more likely to stay positive about the experience.

8. Positive Reinforcement

Reward your child for sticking with their treatment plan. This doesn’t have to be extravagant—it could be as simple as a favourite treat (orthodontic-friendly) or a restaurant. Planning something fun for when treatment is complete is a sure-fire way to keep they motivated.

Positive reinforcement shows your teen that their efforts are recognised and appreciated.

9. Be Patient

Remember that resistance is normal, especially at first. Give your teen time to process the idea and ask questions. Don’t rush or pressure them into agreeing to treatment. Instead, gently revisit the conversation over time, emphasizing the benefits and addressing new concerns as they arise.

10. Work with an Understanding Orthodontist

Finding an orthodontist who communicates well with teens can make all the difference. Look for a provider who explains the process in a way that’s relatable and answers your teen’s questions directly. When your teen feels comfortable and informed, they’re more likely to engage with their treatment plan.

Convincing your teen to undergo orthodontic treatment can take time and patience, but it’s worth the effort. Focus on the benefits, involve them in the process, and address their concerns with empathy. By supporting them every step of the way, you can help them see that braces or aligners are an investment in their smile—and their confidence—that will last a lifetime.

MP Orthodontics is an orthodontic practice based in Cheltenham, Melbourne. Working from the belief that orthodontic treatment is much more than working with teeth and creating smiles, treating orthodontists – Dr Martin Poon and Dr Geoff Hall – approach patients as people first. Their approach is to work together and plan and implement treatment that meets each individual’s needs. Drawing on 30 plus years experience of helping children gain confidence through tailored treatment, MP Orthodontics is a truly unique orthodontic practice.

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