Our Blog
03
Jun
Invisalign Survey: Braces Make It Harder for Teens
According to recently released results of a survey conducted by Align Technology, the manufacturers of Invisalign, teens still think that braces cause many social problems, especially on social media.
The survey asked more than 3500 US teens aged 13 to 17, as well as more than 2100 US mothers of teens about social issues related to crooked teeth, braces, and social media.
Not Embarrassing, but Challenging
Most teens (57%) felt that crooked teeth were embarrassing. A smaller fraction (41%) felt that braces were embarrassing. However, that doesn’t mean that braces don’t have a significant impact on teens’ social lives.
Nearly all teens (94%) felt that their appearance impacted their popularity, so it’s not surprising at an almost equal number (92%) felt that metal braces would keep them from fitting in.
Perhaps more surprising was teens’ attitudes toward social media. More than half (54%) of teens felt their lives would be better without social media. This may be partly because many teens (40%) felt their appearance was being judged more closely on social media than in person.
Not surprisingly, the survey is in support of a new marketing campaign by Invisalign focusing on teens. It is supported by a free interactive pocket guide called, “Unbrace Teen Confidence,” which helps parents understand and explore the issues their kids are facing in school.
Speaking from Experience
Teens don’t answer these surveys from a theoretical perspective. Instead, they are responding to the events in their lives and those of their friends. They see how people are judged and who makes friends and who doesn’t.
The impact of braces is very real for teens, and for many teens, the option of having their teeth straightened with clear braces rather than metal ones would be welcome.
Do We Ever Leave High School?
Unfortunately, the issues we face in high school continue to dog us through life. Even if you are dealing with adults, an attractive smile makes you look not just more attractive, but smarter, more successful, and more likable, too.
And metal braces definitely make it harder for adults to fit in, too. Whether you are looking to straighten your teens’ teeth or your own, Invisalign is a great option. To learn more about getting Invisalign in Beverly Hills, please call (310) 275-5325 for an appointment with a cosmetic dentist at Nicolas A. Ravon, DDS, MSD today.