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! Therefore, if you or your teen has 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. There are so many reasons to receive orthodontic care. 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, reducing jaw pain, the likelihood of gum disease, and other dental issues like cavities

More than anything, the important thing to remember is: there is no better time than now to take a step towards a great smile! Taking the time to better yourself now will pay off immeasurably in the future.

Step 2: Your Complimentary Consultation

Once you and your teen have made the decision to begin orthodontic care, we would have you come in for a complimentary consultation.

During your visit, one of our doctors will meet with you and your teen to examine their smile, give an assessment of their current dental health, and discuss any recommended orthodontic treatment and along with your options.

Treatment can vary from patient to patient. For example, one patient may only require a retainer for a short amount of time, whereas another patient may need full metal braces to assist with more complex concerns. Depending on what Dr. French or Dr. Olsen prescribe for your teen, you can get a sense of how long the treatment will take, what will be involved in the treatment, and what the cost will be.

Step 3: Weighing the Options

Sometimes patients are given a few options for their treatment. For instance, some patients may qualify for Invisalign Teen, a series of clear aligners that shapes your smile over time. Invisalign Teen is an attractive option because they are clear and removable. The other options you may have are traditional metal braces or clear braces.

Dr. French or Dr. Olsen will discuss all of the options with you so you and your teen can make an informed decision together. Whether your teen decides on Invisalign, clear braces, or metal braces, we are confident you will be happy with the end result!

Step 4: Treatment and Working Together

Once a treatment path is determined, we can get started! From the first day of treatment to the last, our friendly staff is here to answer any questions you may have, and to assist with establishing proper home care during orthodontic treatment. We want to make daily life with braces fun!

One of the most important things we remind our teenage patients is this: we are in this together. Since our team only sees patients once every four to eight weeks, there is a lot of time where we are not able to check in and see what is going on with your teen.

Like we said before: your teen plays a huge role in their success! Your teen must take ownership of their dental health, cleaning and caring for their teeth during this time. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental appointments with their general dentist will make the entire process easier and healthier!

Step 5: Results

After working together through the treatment time, now is the moment we have all been waiting for – the big reveal!

Great results make the entire orthodontic process worthwhile. Once a happy, straight smile is revealed, you and your teen will be thrilled with the work that we achieved together.

While there may still be follow-up appointments and perhaps additional appliances, such as a retainer, to keep results looking their best, we are always excited by this final step. Smile transformations are our passion!

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.

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