Orthodontics can keep your teen smiling confidently and achieving academically.

The teen years can be awkward for many. Trying to make good grades and finding and making new friends at the same time is hard for many teens. And that can easily lead those who need braces to feel self-conscious about their smiles. The team at Must Love Kids is ready to help your teen feel good about their new smile while you help them juggle academics and a social life.

A confident smile helps boost self-esteem.

There is no doubt that confidence helps build self-esteem. Research has shown that a person’s smile also has a profound effect on how others perceive them. Some studies suggest that nearly half of the adult population isn’t completely satisfied with the smiles they have. And those in this category can have low confidence and self-esteem because they let their less-than-ideal smiles affect them. 

Some studies suggest teens and young adults who aren’t satisfied with their smiles lack confidence and may even experience bullying because of how their smile looks. Interestingly, teens who are confident in their smiles have a healthy level of self-esteem and tend to flourish more socially, which has been linked to higher academic performance.

If you find that your teen isn’t satisfied with their smile, talk with them about solutions that would make them happier. If your teen suggests orthodontics as a solution to help with a smile makeover, make an appointment with Must Love Kids to see if they are a good candidate for braces.

Balancing School While Wearing Orthodontics

If you and your teen decide on braces to improve their smile, there are some things they will need to keep in mind during orthodontic treatment.

Anyone in braces will tell you that brushing and flossing around orthodontics will take some getting used to. While your teen is adjusting to caring for their teeth while wearing braces, make sure they are allowing themselves enough time to brush and floss in the morning. This may mean they need to get up 15 minutes earlier to make sure they can do a thorough job.

Your teen might also find that food gets stuck easily in their braces, so they may want to carry a travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste with them so they can brush their teeth after lunch at school or while they are out to eat with their friends.

Braces also need adjustments, meaning your teen will need to make frequent visits to the dental office. When booking their appointments, make sure your teen is involved so that they aren’t missing out on any academics. Have them plan out when important academic milestones, like tests and exams, are scheduled, as well as any after-school activities and field trips. This way they can still be an active teen without having to worry about missing a school event or a dental appointment. 

Make sure your teen is comfortable speaking with their teachers and academic advisors to discuss their schedule. Many adults in an advisory position are more than sympathetic to a teen who is working to improve their smile, and they understand the importance of these appointments.

Other Benefits of Orthodontics

Straightening the teeth may not be the only reason your teen needs orthodontics. Sometimes, orthodontics are necessary to adjust a misaligned bite that is contributing to other problems, like sleep apnea. If your teen is having trouble getting a good night’s rest and the lack of sleep is affecting their grades, schedule a sleep apnea evaluation.

If you’re finding that your teen is reluctant to go down the path of orthodontics, you can help them by focusing on the end result—a healthy, straight smile they will be proud to show off. 

Let Must Love Kids help your teen’s smile.

If you notice that your teen is struggling with their self-confidence because of their smile, it’s time to talk with Must Love Kids. Our Vancouver, Washington, office focuses solely on pediatric dentistry, and our team loves to come alongside you to improve your child’s smile.

Schedule an evaluation to talk about the possibility of orthodontics for your teen. A confident smile can go a long way in boosting their self-esteem and encouraging academic excellence.