How to Talk to Your Child About Getting Braces

There are about 4 million people in the United States that wear braces, according to the American Orthodontics Association. Further, about 75% are under the age of 18. Braces for kids can be a necessary treatment to prevent or correct serious cases of underbites, overbites, crossbites, or crooked teeth. Most children feel apprehensive about wearing braces. Here’s how talking to your child can help.

Explain Why They Need Braces

Braces for kids are used as a treatment for many different things. It is important that you explain to your child how braces will help improve their smile. Explaining why they need to wear braces will ease some of the apprehension that they feel.

Explain How Braces Move Their Teeth

Explain how braces for kids work. Many children are afraid of wearing braces because they do not understand that it is a slow and steady process that moves the teeth into proper alignment over time. Be honest with them about what to expect. You do not want to scare them, but you do want to let them know at times it may be a little uncomfortable. Thankfully, it will be well worth it.

Share Stories About People You Know That Wore Braces

If you have worn braces, or if you have friends or family members that have worn braces in the past, talk to your child about the experience and remind your child about how nice their teeth will look after treatment. Reminding your child that they already know people who have worn braces may help them to be more accepting of wearing their own braces.

Drive Home the Benefits

A lot of kids that are getting ready for braces are excited about the prospect of having a straight smile. Most kids will come around once they realize that the result will be an improved smile. You can go online and view before and after pictures to show your child how great the results can be. You could also ask your orthodontist to share some before and after pictures of prior patients.

Your child’s orthodontist can provide you with information and support to help you make it easier to speak to your child about braces for kids. Open communication about the need for braces and the benefits are the best ways to calm apprehension about getting braces. If you are considering braces for your child, call Orthodontics LA today for more information or to get started.