How to Talk to Your Child About Getting Braces
Braces can almost be considered a rite of passage in the United States. According to PA Dental, out of the 4 million people with braces, about 75% percent of them are younger than 18. However, not every child will be willing to get them right away. If your child has any orthodontic issues, you may have to go the extra mile to help them understand why getting braces would be beneficial. Here’s how to convince your child to get braces.
Start With the Good News
It always helps to discuss the positive with your child. For instance, tell them how our team is are no longer using big metal bands and wires for braces. Instead, modern braces for kids feature thinner wires and very small brackets. These changes have led to an overall decrease in brace sizes. As such, braces are no longer as prominent as they used to be when someone is wearing them.
Break Down the Process for Them
Your child may be a bit apprehensive because they’re worried about how they’ll look with braces on. It can help to sit with them and have a conversation about the whole process. Helping them understand why braces are important and how they can greatly improve their oral health can convince your child to go ahead with the move. You should emphasize the improvement of their dental health. You can also go through before and after pictures of other kids who go braces.
Choose the Best Orthodontic Team
Try and find an orthodontic team that has experience with kids. Once you have decided on a team, set up a routine appointment for your child. That’ll give the our team a chance to explain the process. Orthodontists are trained to work with children and help them understand why braces are needed. They’ll also make sure your child understands how braces for kids will solve their current dental issues. You should tell your child that it’s ok to ask questions. If all goes well, your child will feel comfortable and prepared to get braces after the first appointment.
Even Famous People Get Braces
Kids generally don’t want braces because they think they’re not cool. As an added bonus, if you need one last talking point for your braces discussion, you can throw in some celebrity talk. If you remind your child that even famous people get braces, too, it can help convince them to go for it. Show them some pictures of celebrities with braces. You can also find before and after pictures online.
These tips will help you convince your child that braces for kids are a good thing. If you try these and fail, you can get help from an orthodontist near you. Get in touch with our team today if you need help convincing your child that braces are a good thing.