Wondering how to help your teen through their orthodontic treatment without the eye rolls? A little creativity and the right attitude can make their treatment a lot smoother (and even a little fun!) Families across Oxford and Pell City have trusted Dr. John Benton and Dr. Barry Benton at Designer Smiles by Benton to guide their teens through orthodontic treatment with confidence for over 30 years. Let’s kick things off by looking at why the teen years are the ideal time to get started.
Why the Teen Years Are the Best Time to Start Orthodontic Treatment
Between schoolwork, sports, and weekend plans, it might feel like your teen’s calendar is already packed. However, timing is on their side when it comes to orthodontic treatment. Ages 12 to 16 are prime years for braces or aligners because most of the permanent teeth have come in, and the jaw is still flexible enough to respond quickly to treatment.
Starting now means:
- Shorter Treatment Times: Bones and teeth are still developing, making movement easier and faster.
- Spotting Problems Early: Dr. John Benton and Dr. Barry Benton can catch spacing, bite, and crowding issues before they cause bigger problems.
- Better Long-Term Results: Early intervention helps protect oral health for years to come.
Plenty of teens around Oxford and Pell City are already wrapping up early Phase I treatments and moving into full braces or clear aligners. But how do you know if it’s time to schedule that first consultation? Let’s break down a few signs that it might be time to schedule that first consultation.
Signs Your Teen Might Be Ready for Orthodontic Treatment
Sometimes, the need for braces or aligners is obvious (hello, crowded teeth!), but other times, the signs can be a little more under the radar. Knowing what to watch for can help you get ahead of any potential problems and keep treatment simpler and smoother for your teen.
Here are a few signs it might be time to check in with Dr. John Benton and Dr. Barry Benton at Designer Smiles by Benton:
- Early, late, or unusual loss of baby teeth
- Crowding, gaps, or overlapping teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting comfortably
- Jaws that pop, shift, or feel uneven
- Teeth that don’t meet properly—or don’t meet at all
- Frequent cheek-biting or lip-biting during meals
- Teeth or jaws that seem out of proportion with the rest of the face
If you’re spotting any of these signs around the dinner table or after a weekend trip to Oxford Lake Park, it might be time to schedule a free consultation. Up next, let’s talk about how to help your teen start strong once treatment begins.
Helping Your Teen Through the First Few Weeks
The first few weeks of braces or aligners are a little like adjusting to a new pair of shoes. They might feel strange at first, but with the right support, your teen will find their stride. A few small steps at home can make a big difference in how they settle into treatment.
Here’s how to set them up for success:
Create a “First Week Survival Kit”
with orthodontic wax, soft foods like yogurt and mashed potatoes, and a travel toothbrush for school days.
Plan a fun distraction
like a movie night, a stroll through Oxford’s Choccolocco Park, or a stop for a milkshake at a local favorite.
Keep expectations realistic
Soreness or minor adjustments are normal and usually short-lived.
Celebrate early wins
like getting through their first appointment or remembering to pack their aligner case for school.
Once they’ve conquered those first few days, it’s all about building good habits that stick. Let’s jump into how to make that part feel easy, too.
Building Habits Without the Power Struggles
No one likes being micromanaged, especially teens balancing their social lives. The trick is to help them stay on track without feeling like you’re constantly hovering (or repeating yourself for the hundredth time).
Here’s how to make good habits feel natural:
- Create simple reminders—set phone alarms or use apps that send discreet nudges to wear aligners or replace rubber bands.
- Make orthodontic care part of their daily rhythm—right after meals, before sports practices, or before Netflix marathons.
- Pack smart—help them stock their backpack or locker with flossers, extra rubber bands, and a mini toothbrush.
- Celebrate streaks—reward a month of consistent aligner wear with a special dinner or Saturday afternoon at Pell City’s Lakeside Park.
Consistency builds momentum, and once your teen feels that progress, everything starts to get a little easier (and a lot more rewarding!) Up next, let’s look at why celebrating the small wins is the secret to keeping their spirits high all the way to the finish line.
Why Your Support Matters More Than You Think
Sure, braces and aligners will straighten teeth. But the real win is how your teen feels about themselves along the way. Dr. John Benton and Dr. Barry Benton at Designer Smiles by Benton know that teens who feel backed by their families show up for themselves, with more confidence and more pride in the work they’re putting in. Here’s what consistent support can help with:
Building Confidence
Teens who feel encouraged through the ups and downs tend to carry themselves differently, even before treatment is finished.
Protecting Oral Health
Good habits during treatment set the stage for fewer cavities, stronger gums, and better oral hygiene for life.
Reducing Future Dental Issues
Properly aligned teeth are less prone to uneven wear, injury, and even digestive problems related to poor chewing.
Designer Smiles by Benton is proud to partner with families across Oxford and Pell City, cheering teens on every step of the way.
Let Us Lead Your Teen’s Smile Story!
The secret to supporting your teen? Celebrate the little victories (the ones that don’t seem like much at the time, but add up to something pretty amazing!) Dr. John Benton and Dr. Barry Benton at Designer Smiles by Benton are here to make sure families across Oxford and Pell City feel confident, connected, and proud of every step. Call (256) 674-4934 today to schedule your free consultation—we can’t wait to be part of your teen’s story!