Now that it’s back to school time most kids are doing everything they can to look sharp. Some have complete new wardrobes, some have fresh haircuts, and others are focusing on more long-term changes. While I am one to say looks are not the most important thing in the world, it’s important especially for children and teens to feel their best, and when it comes to great looking teeth, oral hygiene also comes into play.
As with any change we or our children make to improve our lives, eating better foods, working out, checking off our to-do lists, making sure they study for tests and achieve good grades or even having an amazing smile, there is always work and effort involved.
Having Invisalign* myself I can attest that while the system makes my journey towards straighter teeth easier than traditional braces, I still have moments that I have to remind myself about the end goal of the entire process. Just as I need to work out to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, I need to wear my aligners for a minimum of 23 hours daily to achieve maximum results.
The Invisalign Teen program offers compliance indicators offer a great reminder for your teen or child as to whether or not they are wearing their aligners the appropriate amount of time. If this is a concern for you or your kiddo here are a few ideas to encourage them to continue wearing their aligners and make it to their end goal: a beautiful, healthy smile.
1. Create a smile board. Cut out images of what you or your child believe are beautiful smiles. Also, use their last image from the Clin-check at the orthodontist (some will give upon request, check with your orthodontist.)
2. Reward them. Aka bribe them. Aside from the reward of a great smile some of us or our kiddos may need an added incentive, for me I’d love to go to the spa when I’m completely done with my 50 aligners. (and if any of you want to send a gift card for my success I will not “return to sender”. 
)
3. Find successes. Visit blogs from previous Invisalign Mom Advisory members, or check out video testimonials from real Invisalign users on Invisalign’s website here: http://www.invisalign.com
How do you encourage your children, or self to work hard to look your best??
*I am a member of the Invisalign Mom Advisory Board, I receive complimentary Invisalign treatment, but am posting my own, personal opinions.
I reward my grandson with stickers when he does a really good job, even if it isn’t perfect.
I think these are great ways to really encourage positive actions!
I wish I could get my kids to floss!