Your orthodontist in Surrey or dentist has recommended braces for your teenager. Now what? Your teen might be excited about their new hardware, or they might be less than thrilled. It’s important to talk with your teenager and help convince them of the value of orthodontic treatment in Surrey while listening to and understanding their concerns. You’ll want to help prepare your teenager for braces, especially if yours is hesitant or nervous about the idea. Here are a few things you can do.
Remind Them How Common Braces Are
Remind your teenager that braces are very common among teenagers and even some adults. It’s estimated that around 50% of people will have braces in Vancouver at some point in their lives. Maybe some of your teen’s friends already have braces or even your teen’s favorite celebrity wore braces before achieving their perfect smile. (Try to find a picture!) Maybe you had braces as a child. If your teenager is self-conscious about their new look, it can help to remind them how common braces are so they don’t feel alone.
Prepare a List of Questions
Your child may have a lot of questions about their new treatment. How long will I need to wear braces? What can I eat while wearing braces? How do I keep them clean? Will they hurt? These are just some of the questions your teen might be thinking. Together with your child, prepare a list of questions to ask the orthodontist in Vancouver. When your teenager is allowed to ask questions this can help them feel more part of the process and they might also be less nervous if they know what to expect.
Look at Different Treatment Options
There are different types of braces, including metal, ceramic, or Invisalign. Ask your Vancouver orthodontist about your teenager’s options and let your teen help decide. Research each type with your teenager and weigh out the pros and cons. Your teenager will feel better about the process if they have some control over their treatment. Maybe your teen would love to pick colourful elastics to go with their metal braces or perhaps your teen would be more comfortable with a less visible option. Your child will feel more confident with braces that suit his or her personality.
Remind Your Teen of the Benefits
It’s important to explain the benefits of orthodontic care to your teenager. Most children and teens like instant gratification, and yours might not look forward to living with braces without seeing immediate results. Remind them that braces are a temporary process and that the result will be worth any initial discomfort.
Especially if your child is self-conscious of their smile, remind them that braces will help straighten out their teeth and keep their teeth healthy. Focus on the positive and try to help your teenager do the same!
Transitioning to life with braces can be tough for teenagers. At PacificWest Dental in Vancouver, we’re here to help choose the right treatment for your child, answer your questions, and help prepare your teenager for braces and beyond. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
