Getting braces brings up a lot of worry and anxiety for kids, especially if they’re the first in their class to undergo orthodontic treatment. Attempting to get your child excited during this anxiety-inducing time is difficult but can make their treatment much more enjoyable. Here are a few tips to convince your child braces are something worth getting excited about.

How to Make Your Kid Look Forward to Braces

1. Tell Them What to Expect

It’s easy to feel anxious when you don’t know what to expect. Kids feel the same way. Go through the process of getting braces step by step to ease their fears. Don’t forget to emphasize that there aren’t any needles or other intimidating dental instruments involved.

2. Focus on the Positives

Your child may be fixated on the negatives, such as how long their treatment will last. Instead of agreeing with them or saying things like “it’s only for a year,” help them focus on the results, such as a straighter, healthier smile. They might also feel more confident after their treatment is over. If your teen is getting clear braces or Invisalign®, make sure they understand their braces will usually go unnoticed by others.

3. Let Them Show Off Their Personality

For kids getting metal braces, encourage them to flaunt their style. They can choose from an array of colorful elastic bands for their braces, and these can be changed out frequently. This customization can keep things feeling fresh and exciting, especially during long orthodontic treatments.

It’s also a comfort for kids to know they’re not alone. Let them know if you or their favorite celebrity or athlete had braces once. Dig up old yearbook pictures or search for images online to illustrate how common this orthodontic treatment is.

If your child still feels uneasy about getting braces, turn to the team at Hawaii Orthodontist in Honolulu. They work with patients of all ages and offer an array of orthodontic appliances to suit everyone’s unique needs. Whether your child is getting traditional metal braces or has opted for Invisalign, they’ll work with you to ensure their treatment is fun and exciting. Visit their website for more information, or call (808) 947-3737 to schedule an appointment.