Whether it’s getting up for school, making friends or getting good grades, through the eyes of a teen even the smallest of stresses can feel like a huge struggle, which is why most will turn away at the first mention of braces.

However, the idea of braces need not be something to cringe at. Once your child’s orthodontic treatment is complete, they will have a happier, healthier smile and their confidence will bloom.

Although it may seem intimidating at first, what is important to understand is that braces are not uncommon during adolescence and many teens are experiencing a similar thing, with all the same worries and concerns.

As a parent, there are a number of ways you can help ease any anxious thoughts your child may be having about the treatment. To erase these worries, you can encourage your child to see the overall experience as positive and exciting!  Here are some fun ideas to get you started:

Throw a brace supper party! Before getting their braces fitted, throw your child a party and celebrate with a table full of all the foods they’ll need to avoid whilst wearing their braces. Giving them this day of indulgence will make saying goodbye to their favourite treats less of a loss and give them something to look forward to before having their braces fitted, and after they come off, too.

Join in. Crooked or crowded teeth can be bothersome for adults, too. If you’re unhappy with your smile and have been for a while, it can be encouraging for your child or teen if you go through the treatment process together. You’ll be able to give them further guidance and support throughout the period of their treatment, and you’ll both end up with brighter and healthier smiles.

Add some colour. With a traditional set of braces, each visit to the dentist gives patients the opportunity to change their bracket bands. These come in a range of colours, and so gives each visit an element of fun. Your child can personalise their braces and experiment with their favourite colours by mixing and matching their bracket bands at each visit.

Get blending in the kitchen. Since wearing braces can cause some pressure and tightness, smoothies can be a nutritional, yummy and exciting way to help beat the beat the craving for off-limit foods. Especially after getting your child’s braces tightened, taking a trip down the fruit and veg aisle for some smoothie ingredients can take their mind off of the discomfort.  Go home and get busy in the kitchen by throwing in a variety of different ingredients into a smoothie. You can make up a new one together every time!

Positive reassurance. It can be easy to feel self-conscious whilst wearing braces, which is why it’s important to keep communicating with your child throughout their treatment. Encourage them to always smile and remind them that the treatment is an exciting experience that will have beautiful results.

Straight Teeth Suite offers in braces for children and adults alike. Contact our practice today HERE to see how we can help give you a brighter smile.

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