No child ever likes braces when they’re growing up, but it’s also a necessary evil when it comes to growing. Not every child will end up getting braces, but for most, it’s typical to need braces at some point while maturing. But in this age of looks and appearances bearing more weight on social status on a global scale, it can be difficult talking your child into traditional braces.
Understanding Their Health
One important factor your child should know about braces is how it’s impacting their overall health in a highly positive way. It can be hard for children to make these associations on their own, so it’s vital to remind them why they need braces and the consequences of not receiving braces when they do need them. Of course, you don’t want to use any fear tactics in the overall decision, but simply letting them know that braces will give them the healthiest smile over the course of their life, even if it means a chunk of time now with some metal. Also reminding them that braces won’t last forever, even if it feels like it’s taking forever in their mind.
Aligners vs. Braces
The most resistance you may experience with your child when it comes to braces are the ways in which they’re getting them. There are more, less invasive and less noticeable forms of braces that can help your child not feel singled out in braces. Teeth aligners are a great way to help shape your child’s teeth into the proper formation without the bulky hardware. Many of these aligners are invisible, more of a clear plastic mold, fitting over your child’s teeth to align them. This takes away from the “shock” factor of seeing braces as most people wouldn’t even notice these aligners. But they are also more expensive than traditional braces, which may or may not fit into your budget. Explaining to your child why they can or can’t get aligners instead of braces may be a conversation you’ll have to have, depending on your options and what’s best for your child’s teeth.
Social Media Age
What will probably be the biggest hurdle for you as a parent is disarming this notion of flawless appearances, courtesy of social media. Children are growing up seeing celebrities and “average” folks from all over the world with seemingly perfect features, all while just waking up like that. Children start to perceive and think that they also have to appear near perfect at any moment of any day, and of course braces make that very troublesome. Make sure to remind your child often about how looks don’t matter in the long run of life, and to focus on what’s important in life at that moment. If it’s a hard sell, remind them too that braces will help maintain a straight, white smile, so if they can’t move past those perfect selfies, they’ll at least know what can help them maintain those stunning pictures for years to come.