When Your Teenager Needs Braces: Getting Your Child To Agree With Treatment
When your teenager needs to get braces, this can be met with some resistance. While you are the parent and are responsible for making the decision, your child's cooperation is also necessary. When your child is not happy about getting braces, it's time to sit down and have a discussion. Talk with your teenager about the benefits of orthodontic services. Explain that the braces are only going to be temporary, and discuss the potential for adolescent invisalign if your child only needs mild corrections. The more your child complies with treatment, attending all appointments and wearing supplemental gear at night, the faster the braces will come off.
Make Your Teenager Part of the Decision Process
While you can retain the right to a final say as to what happens with your teenager and braces, you can make the process easier by helping your teen be part of the decision making process. If your child is old enough to drive, they should have some say as to whether they have orthodontics or not. Talk to your teen about why you believe braces are the right choice, and ask for their opinion on the matter. When you sit down and treat your teenager somewhat like an adult, they are more likely to respond positively.
Explain How to Make the Process Go Faster
Let your teen know that they have control over how long their braces are on, at least to a degree. When the orthodontist prescribes the use of rubber bands, head gear, or other retaining devices, the more they are worn, the faster the braces will come off. Explain that complying with treatment is the best way to get the process over with.
Set Up a Reward System for Your Teenager
If your teenager is highly resistant and their teeth are terrible, you may have to set up a type of reward system of sorts. While you don't want to seem as if you are bribing your teenagers to get braces, you can also understand the need for positive reinforcements. For example, for every orthodontic checkup they have, you can take your child to a quick breakfast before going in to school. Little rewards can be as effective as big ones, and the key is to find what works for your teen.
Teenagers need to feel in control over their bodies and what happens around them. Allowing your teen into the decision making process can make the whole ordeal easier. For more tips, contact a clinic that specializes in teenager orthodontics.