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Getting braces is a big milestone in many teens’ lives, and with it can come a mix of excitement, questions, and maybe even a few nerves. Whether your teen is worried about how braces will look, how they'll play sports, or how it might affect their social life, you’re not alone in wondering what to expect.
At Lucas Orthodontic Group, we’ve guided thousands of Middle Tennessee teens through orthodontic treatment with confidence. We believe getting a healthier smile should never mean giving up the things you love, and with the right care and mindset, it doesn’t have to.
Here’s what you (and your teen) should know about life with braces.
Confidence & Appearance: How Braces Fit In
Let’s face it—how they look matters to most teens. The good news? Braces today are more sleek, comfortable, and discreet than ever before.
At Lucas Orthodontic Group, we offer both:
Metal Braces
The classic choice, now with smaller brackets and custom color bands so your teen can show off their personality. Many teens love changing up their colors to match holidays, sports teams, or just their mood.
Ceramic Braces
A popular option for teens who prefer a lower-profile look, ceramic braces use clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend in naturally with their smile.
No matter the type, teens typically adjust to the look of braces within the first week or two. Many even come to see their braces as a badge of progress toward a great smile.
Braces & Sports: Can My Teen Still Play?
Absolutely! Teens can continue playing sports while wearing braces—whether it’s football, soccer, cheer, or band. The key is wearing a properly fitted mouthguard to protect both their teeth and braces from impact.
We’ll recommend the best mouthguard for your teen’s needs and make sure it fits comfortably. In fact, orthodontic mouthguards are specially designed to accommodate brackets and wires, offering better protection than over-the-counter versions.
Pro Tip: Bring your teen’s mouthguard to appointments so we can check the fit as their teeth shift.
Social Life & Eating: What Changes?
Social life is a huge part of the teen experience, and we’re happy to say that braces don’t have to get in the way.
Here’s what to expect:
Eating with Braces
There are a few things teens will need to avoid—like sticky candy, popcorn, gum, and overly crunchy foods—but they’ll still be able to enjoy most of their favorite meals with a few small adjustments.
We’ll send you home with a full list of what’s safe to eat (and what to skip) along with tips for packing lunches, eating out with friends, and staying comfortable.
Smiling with Braces
While it might feel a little different at first, most teens gain more confidence as they see their smile improving. We love seeing our patients light up at the changes they see even a few months into treatment!
Tips to Help Your Teen Thrive with Braces
We know every teen is different, but here are a few ways to make the adjustment period easier:
- Stock up on soft foods the first week (think smoothies, mac & cheese, yogurt)
- Encourage good hygiene habits (we’ll show them how to brush and floss with braces)
- Celebrate progress milestones with small rewards
- Stay consistent with appointments to keep treatment on track
Most importantly, remind your teen that this is temporary—and totally worth it. In just a short time, they’ll have a smile that lasts a lifetime.
Why Teens (& Parents) Trust Lucas Orthodontic Group
With six convenient locations across the Nashville area, our team has earned a reputation for making orthodontic care easy, flexible, and teen-friendly.
Whether it’s customizing treatment to fit your teen’s lifestyle or making visits as comfortable as possible, we’re here every step of the way.
If your teen is ready for braces—or you’re just starting to explore the idea—our team is here to help. We offer free consultations, flexible financing, and a supportive environment designed to make orthodontic care a positive experience.