Nov 13, 2025

Convincing Your Teenager to Have Orthodontic Treatment: A Guide for Families

For many families, the teenage years bring a whirlwind of growth, change, and... orthodontic treatment? Understandably, that last one can be a tough sell. If you are a parent trying to convince your teen to start treatment, you are not alone - and we are here to help.

At Angle House Orthodontics, we’ve guided thousands of teenagers (and their parents!) through the journey to a confident, healthy smile. One thing we know is that when teenagers understand why, they are far more likely to agree.

Why Teens Resist Orthodontic Treatment

Let’s face it - teenagers have their own minds, and often if they don’t understand something, putting up a wall is their go-to! And if we put ourselves in their shoes, anything that affects their appearance is a major concern.

Some common concerns we hear include:

• “Braces will make me look weird.”
• “I don’t have time for Invisalign®.”
• “It’s going to hurt.”
• “It takes too long.”
• “My teeth are fine and I don’t care.”

These concerns are totally valid. The good news? There are more comfortable, discreet, and effective options than ever before - and we know how to make the process feel more like an upgrade than a setback.

How to Talk to Your Teen About Orthodontics

Here are some tips for approaching the topic without a family standoff:

1. Lead with Benefits

Yes, straight teeth improve oral health. But that’s not what motivates most teenagers. Talk about the confidence boost, better selfies, and the fact that a great smile can make a lasting first impression socially and later in professional life.

2. Show Them the Options

At Angle House Orthodontics, we offer:

• Invisalign® - virtually invisible
• Ceramic braces - blend in with teeth
• Modern metal braces - more comfortable

Let them choose - involvement in the decision helps them feel in control.

3. Show Before and Afters

We’ve seen countless teens go through treatment and come out smiling. Seeing before-and-after photos of real patients can help teens visualise their own potential transformation.

4. Talk About Timing

Teenage years are a great time for orthodontic treatment. Postponing treatment often means more complicated work later in life.

5. Schedule a ‘No Pressure’ Free Consultation

Sometimes hearing it from someone other than a parent makes all the difference. At Angle House Orthodontics, we offer free consultations where your teen can ask questions, explore options, and get to know our friendly team - all without pressure.

What Teens Say After Treatment

We often hear teens say:

• “I can’t believe I was so worried!”
• “I feel way more confident now.”
• “It was actually easier than I expected.”

That shift in attitude from being hesitant to proud is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.

Let’s Make It Easier - Together

We understand that every teen is different. Some jump at the chance for a better smile, while others need a little encouragement. At Angle House Orthodontics, we are committed to making the experience positive, comfortable, and even fun.

Whether your teen is ready now or needs time to warm up to the idea, we are here to support your family every step of the way.