When your teen starts treatment at New England Orthodontic Specialists, they get a chance to boost self-esteem, build healthy habits, and set up a strong foundation for the future. Yet, as a parent, you might feel unsure about how to make the process run smoothly. Dr. Diana and Dr. Neil have seen hundreds of teens who benefit from braces or Invisalign. They also know that parental help can make a big difference. Our teams in Beverly, Topsfield, Hamilton, Salem, and Lynn can show you how to do that.
Understanding Your Teen’s Orthodontic Options
Before we dive into support strategies, it’s helpful to look at our treatment choices for teens. That way, you’ll be ready when Dr. Diana or Dr. Neil makes a recommendation.
Braces for Teens
Most people picture these: metal brackets bonded to each tooth, connected by a wire. They may look familiar from your own childhood, but modern braces that our New England Orthodontic Specialists team uses have changed. Today’s brackets are smaller, and wires can be more comfortable than before. Still, your teen will follow a schedule of visits for adjustments to keep progress on track.
Pros:
- Effective for many bite concerns
- Fixed in place, so they can’t be misplaced
- Often, a steady, time-tested option
Things to remember:
- Foods like chewy candies or hard snacks can cause problems with brackets
- Oral hygiene requires more effort, especially around wires and brackets
Invisalign for Teens
Dr. Neil and Dr. Diana are proud to help teens with Invisalign. Invisalign for Teens uses clear trays that fit over your child’s teeth. They’re removable, so your teen can take them out while eating, brushing, or playing an instrument. That leads to fewer food restrictions and, in many cases, a welcome boost in confidence. However, the doctors recommend wearing them for most of the day—usually around 20 to 22 hours—for the best results.
Pros:
- Nearly invisible
- Less impact on daily routines, from mealtime to sports
- Easier brushing and flossing (since aligners come off)
Things to remember:
- Requires discipline. If trays aren’t worn enough, treatment slows down
- Aligners can be misplaced or damaged if your teen isn’t careful
Why Support Matters
Your teen will get steady help from Dr. Diana, Dr. Neil, and our team at New England Orthodontic Specialists. However, the role you play is just as important. Consistent encouragement can keep your child focused on wearing aligners, following food guidelines, or showing up for checkups at any of our five convenient offices.
When you’re involved, you can:
- Motivate your teen to stick with daily care, even when they’re tempted to slack off
- Spot small issues (like loose brackets or lost aligners) before they become bigger problems
- Celebrate milestones and show your teen that you value their effort
1. Setting Clear Expectations
Your teen may not know what to expect from orthodontic treatment. They might wonder if braces from New England Orthodontic Specialists will hurt, how aligners feel, or what foods to avoid. You can help by creating a simple plan.
- Explain the basics: If your teen is getting braces, talk about how metal wires apply steady pressure to shift teeth. If they’re going with Invisalign, remind them that wearing trays as instructed is key.
- Discuss timeframes: Treatment can last anywhere from several months to a couple of years. It helps to let your teen know this is a process, and they’ll see small improvements along the way.
- Talk about potential changes: Foods like gummy candies or popcorn might go on hold with braces. For aligner wearers, the biggest change is remembering to wear and store trays properly.
By having these conversations early, you set your teen up for fewer surprises. They’ll also see that you’re there to help.
2. Creating a Positive Environment at Home
Teens often stress about their looks, and orthodontic treatment can add to that. A positive, supportive home can help them feel better about the entire experience.
- Offer genuine comments: If your teen is worried about metal brackets, remind them that braces are common and modern brackets are smaller. If they’re using Invisalign, encourage them by noting how clear the trays look.
- Stock the kitchen: Keep braces-friendly foods on hand. Softer items—like soups, smoothies, pasta, or yogurt—work well if their teeth feel tender after an adjustment. Also, if your teen has aligners, keep a water bottle nearby. Staying hydrated helps them remember to rinse trays before putting them back in.
- Stay curious: Ask your teen how they feel. If they’re frustrated by changes in mealtime routines or anxious about an upcoming appointment, show them you’re listening.
3. Monitoring Daily Habits
Good habits don’t form overnight. Your teen might need small reminders, especially during the first few weeks after treatment from Dr. Diana or Dr. Neil.
For Braces
- Regular brushing and flossing: Show your teen how to brush gently around the brackets and wires. Floss threaders or water flossers can help them reach tricky spots.
- Mouthwash: Consider a fluoride rinse, which can help support stronger teeth during treatment.
- Bracket checks: Look for any loose or broken parts. If you spot a problem, call any of our offices in Beverly, Topsfield, Hamilton, Salem, or Lynn.
For Invisalign
- Wearing trays: Remind your teen to aim for 20–22 hours of wear each day. They should only remove aligners to eat, drink anything other than water, or brush.
- Cleaning aligners: A soft-bristled toothbrush or Invisalign cleaning crystals can keep trays fresh. Avoid very hot water, which can warp the material.
- Case usage: Lost aligners are a hassle. Encourage your teen to store them in a case instead of leaving them in a backpack pocket or on a lunch tray.
Keeping an eye on these details can save time and frustration in the long run.
4. Encouraging Regular Checkups
Routine checkups let Dr. Diana or Dr. Neil see how well your teen’s teeth are shifting. Our team may tighten wires, hand out the next set of aligners, or address concerns. By keeping these appointments, you set the stage for better outcomes.
- Plan around your schedule: With five offices (Beverly, Topsfield, Hamilton, Salem, and Lynn), you can often find a location that suits your routine.
- Involve your teen: Don’t surprise them with an appointment at the last minute. Give them time to prepare for an exam or a wire adjustment with our doctors.
- Ask questions: If you’re curious about at-home care or timelines, speak up. Knowing the plan can help you and your teen stay on the same page.
5. Managing Discomfort and Setbacks
Orthodontic treatment sometimes leads to mild aches after adjustments or when switching to a new aligner. Although you can’t always remove the sensation altogether, you can help your teen feel better.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: A simple pain medication—used according to directions—may help for a short time.
- Cold packs or cold drinks: Cool temperatures can soothe sensitive gums.
- Wax for braces: If a bracket rubs your teen’s cheek, orthodontic wax can cushion the spot. You can pick this up at one of our offices if you’re running low.
If you notice anything out of the ordinary—severe pain, swelling, or a broken appliance—contact our New England Orthodontic Specialists team right away. Acting quickly can help prevent delays in treatment.
6. Helping Your Teen Keep Things Clean on the Go
Between sports, clubs, and weekend activities, teens aren’t always at home. A small care kit can help them maintain healthy habits when they’re out and about.
- Travel toothbrush and toothpaste: Great for a quick clean after lunch or a snack.
- Floss sticks or picks: Handy for braces wearers when something gets stuck between brackets.
- Aligner case: If your teen has Invisalign, a compact case can keep aligners safe whenever they’re not in the mouth.
Encourage your teen to carry this kit in their school backpack or sports bag. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in keeping braces or aligners in top shape.
Final Thoughts
At New England Orthodontic Specialists, Dr. Neil and Dr. Diana believe that helping teens feel good about their smiles is worth the effort. Whether you choose traditional braces or Invisalign, your support can turn an intimidating step into an experience that strengthens your connection with your child. And when the big day arrives—when those braces come off, or the last set of aligners is worn—you’ll both be smiling from ear to ear. Go here to schedule a consultation in Beverly, Topsfield, Hamilton, Salem, or Lynn.