Bakersfield Orthodontist Helps Teens Stays Social And Straighten Their Teeth

BAKERSFIELD, CA, April 01, 2013 (Press-News.org) There is no way around it, technology has impacted every aspect of our children's, and especially our teen's, lives. Just as social media and cell phones revolutionized the way they communicate, technology has also made a big difference in the way teens straighten their teeth. Traditional metal braces have, in large part, given way to more advanced braces techniques and invisible options like Invisalign and Invisalign Teen. Invisalign Teen has many treatment advantages for our teenage patients and tends to be an ideal fit for kids with active, social lifestyles.

"Braces are dramatically different today compared to 10 years ago because today's teens are far more socially aware, technologically savvy, face a greater degree of stress as they work to achieve educational goals and are involved in a variety of active sports and performing arts," says Invisalign provider and Bakersfield orthodontist, Dr. Michael Thurman. "In our children's complex world, the idea of wearing braces for a prolonged period of time can make teens feel self-conscious."

For this reason, among others, removable braces, like Invisalign, are fast becoming a popular choice. The Invisalign system uses a series of clear, lightweight plastic aligners that sit smoothly on the teeth, allowing for a custom and comfortable fit. Teens can smile with confidence while straightening their teeth since this treatment, unlike traditional metal braces, is virtually invisible.

When compared to metal braces, the Invisalign option offers greater comfort throughout treatment and requires fewer trips to the orthodontist office. Although the cost is the same as with traditional braces, the system usually requires fewer and shorter office visits and no "emergency" visits for broken wires or brackets. Metal braces can also cause irritation or accident-related injuries, especially for teens involved in sports.

"Beyond the near invisibility, Invisalign patients love the fact that the aligners can be removed while they brush and floss their teeth, which makes maintaining excellent oral hygiene throughout their treatment far easier than compared with traditional braces," says Dr. Thurman. "Also, for teens who may already be self-conscious about wearing braces this almost-immediate improvement in aesthetics is strong motivator that aids with compliance throughout treatment. Although it goes against what most people think, we have not seen a compliance problem with teenagers wearing the aligners as prescribed."

Dr. Thurman shares a few tips to help make teeth straightening a positive - and effective - experience:

1) Talk It Out.

Talk to your teen about the importance of correcting their teeth now so they don't have problems in the future. Explain why you or other family members had braces and how it has benefited you in adulthood. Ask the orthodontist as many questions as necessary. Make sure you and your child understand both the cosmetic benefits and the dental health benefits that are expected with orthodontic treatment.

2) Understand your options.

Nowadays, there are a number of treatment options and/or treatment plans an orthodontist may recommend for the patient and parent to consider. Invisalign is not the only solution available, and not every patient is a candidate for this type of treatment, so make sure to understand all of the options so your family can make an informed decision.

3) Get Social.

Decide on an orthodontist that both you and your teen feel comfortable with. Be sure to engage the doctor and staff during appointments to get the most out of your experience.

"Compliance is key. As Orthodontists, we only control about two-thirds of the treatment outcome; the rest is up to the patient. When a patient is motivated and does what we ask of them through treatment, it goes a long way towards getting that perfect smile and an excellent orthodontic result," said Dr. Thurman.

About Thurman Orthodontics
Thurman Orthodontics serves patients in Bakersfield, Delano, and Tehachapi, California. Dr. Thurman is committed to helping his community achieve beautiful, healthy smiles.

1851 Oak Street
Suite B
Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 395-0698
Thurman Orthodontics
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