Braces weren’t “in” back in the day. The dreaded nickname “metal mouth” was often used to tease those who had to wear hideously thick, metal wires and brackets across their teeth. If you wore them, you didn’t smile for your school pictures. Then, there was the thought—or nightmare—of experiencing your first kiss with a mouth full of metal. Many teens preferred going “au naturel,” electing to live with a slightly crooked smile over a silver one.

Today, braces are fashion statements: Imagine that! Teens can choose from a variety of color combinations for a trendy look, or they can opt for the “invisible” kinds. With less cumbersome materials and a variety of choices, more and more teens are wearing braces with pride.

Are They Necessary?

David Seligman, DMD, a certified orthodontic specialist explains, “When a dental professional recommends a consultation for braces, it is imperative to follow through with an appointment.” He says that putting off a consultation can mean having to pull adult teeth later on or having to wear braces for a longer period of time. He suggests that if parents are worried about an adolescent being able to care for the appliances, they should voice their concerns. Alternative options can be discussed for a more suitable solution for your child’s situation.

If your teen has a disability that might make it difficult for her to handle an oral appliance, discuss the matter at length with professionals involved before moving forward. Parents should be sure to garner as much information as possible from multiple sources and get a second opinion if they have doubts.

Treatment Benefits

“Most patients begin orthodontic treatment between the ages of 9 and 14,” explains Scott D. Gersch, DMD, a board certified orthodontist in Westfield, N.J. “Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications.”

Gersch points out the following reasons to choose orthodontic treatment:

• Treatment reduces chances of losing teeth as a result of misaligned bites.
• Crooked teeth can contribute to gum disease.
• Studies show correlations between poor oral hygiene from misaligned teeth and systemic diseases, such as heart disease, lung disease and diabetes.
• A beautiful smile enhances self-esteem and self-confidence.

Cool and Comfortable Choices

Nicholas Toscano, DDS, a board-certified periodontist and co-editor-in-chief of The Journal of Implant and Advanced Clinical Dentistry, says, “Adolescents don’t mind wearing braces anymore, especially when they are going through it with their friends.” He continues, “It’s become very fashionable for adolescents to get the clear braces.” Toscano also reports that braces are not just for severe cases. “Just about anyone can benefit from treatment. The ability to keep straight teeth cleaner is a huge factor.”

Gersch believes that today’s aesthetic options make braces more desirable and comfortable for teens. These options include various designs and color combinations, tooth-colored ceramic brackets, lingual appliances fitted on the back of teeth and Invisalign Teen (which Gersch Orthodontics helped test and develop).

The Hard Part

Seligman warns, “When the novelty wears off, so does hygiene at times. I suggest the following for my teen patients: an extra tooth cleaning (three times per year) and the use of some simple tools, such as an electronic toothbrush that has a timer, a water flosser and anti-plaque mouth rinses.” Seligman says that the most common reasons for loose or broken brackets include fingernail biting, ice chewing, biting on pencils or pens and chewing hard and sticky snacks.

Gersch agrees. “Often the biggest problem with teenagers, whether they have braces or not, is oral hygiene. This definitely can be a challenge for some patients.”

Do’s and Don’ts

• Do be sure your teen wears his retainer once the braces come off.
• Don’t be lackadaisical about the list of “off-limits” foods.
• Do ask your orthodontist about products that protect the lips (such as Braceguard) if your teen plays a wind instrument or contact sport.

Myrna Beth Haskell is a feature writer and columnist specializing in parenting issues and child and adolescent development. She is the mother of two teenagers.