Dental Articles - Southcentre, Seton and Okotoks
A Parent’s Guide to Braces for Teenagers
Posted by Authentic Orthodontics on Tue, 1 Oct 2024
If you are the parent of a teenager, you are already very aware of the major events, packed schedules, and stress that can come with their busy lifestyles.
Braces for Teenagers: A Parent’s Guide to Orthodontic Care
If you are the parent of a teenager, you are already very aware of the major events, packed schedules, and stress that can come with their busy lifestyles. Sometimes dramatic, sometimes funny, and sometimes strange, there is a lot that happens in their lives that surprises you each day.
One thing that may not surprise you: not all teenagers are super thrilled to enter orthodontic care. Although they are certainly excited for the end results – a great smile that will make for a perfect Instagram selfie – the process to get there may be met with some resistance.
In this guide, we have laid out the steps involved in approaching, agreeing upon, and achieving the best orthodontic treatment for your teenager. It’s important to remember that you and your teen play a huge role in the overall success of orthodontic treatment! If you or your teen have questions about braces, how long treatment will take, or if you’re just curious about the overall benefits of orthodontic care, give us a call. We have so much great information to share with you – and your consultation is complimentary!
Follow the steps below, and you will make an invaluable investment in the life of your teenager for years to come.
Step 1: Discussing Orthodontic Care with Your Teen
The first step is deciding to move forward with orthodontic treatment. Here are a few reasons you can share with your teen:
- A straight smile helps boost confidence
- A straight smile can lead to greater success in life
- A straight smile increases smiles and laughter, and improves relationships and friendships
- A straight smile can improve overall health by reducing jaw pain, the likelihood of gum disease, and other dental issues
More than anything, the important thing to remember is: there is no better time than now to take a step toward a great smile!
Step 2: Your Complimentary Consultation
Once you and your teen have made the decision to begin orthodontic care, we’ll have you come in for a complimentary consultation.
During your visit, one of our doctors will examine your teen’s smile, give a dental health assessment, and discuss recommended treatment options.
Treatment varies per patient—some may only need a retainer for a short time, while others may require full braces. Dr. French or Dr. Olsen will explain how long the treatment will take, what’s involved, and the expected costs.
Step 3: Weighing the Options
Some patients qualify for Invisalign Teen, a popular option for its clear, removable design. Other options include traditional metal braces or clear braces.
We’ll go over each option with you and your teen so you can make an informed decision together. Regardless of the treatment chosen, we’re confident you’ll be happy with the results!
Step 4: Treatment and Working Together
Once a treatment path is selected, it’s time to begin! From day one, our friendly staff is here to help answer questions and guide your teen in proper home care and hygiene.
We remind all our teenage patients: we are in this together. Since appointments happen every 4–8 weeks, there’s a lot of time between visits—meaning your teen has a big role in their success.
They’ll need to brush, floss, and maintain their routine dental visits to ensure treatment stays on track and their smile stays healthy.
Step 5: Results
After months of teamwork and commitment, we reach the best part—the big reveal!
The final results make all the effort worthwhile. You and your teen will be thrilled to see a beautiful, healthy, straight smile.
While post-treatment retainers and check-ups may be necessary, this is the moment that makes everything worth it. Smile transformations are what we do best!
Braces for Teenagers in Calgary
Are you and your teen ready to begin the journey to a straighter, healthier smile? We are ready for you! Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with Dr. French or Dr. Olsen at Authentic Orthodontics. We can’t wait to help you achieve a confident smile that lasts a lifetime.
Orthodontists Southcentre, Seton and Okotoks