A study of mothers, conducted on behalf of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) finds 86 percent of mothers reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children's experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them feel good about their orthodontic treatment, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Mothers Report Braces One of the Best Investments
While the perceptions and attitudes surrounding braces have changed over the years, the goal of orthodontic treatment remains the same - to help each patient achieve a beautiful smile. In fact, 78 percent of mothers who had braces as a child believe braces are one of the best investments their parents made for them.

More Comfortable and a Better Experience
A perception of orthodontic treatment is that it seems to be easier than ever and more enjoyable for today's patients. A majority of mothers reported that while wearing braces used to be a less comfortable and a lengthier process, new technologies and orthodontic options are making their children's experience more enjoyable. Most also described the experience of visiting the orthodontist office as fun, and 81 percent rated their child's experience of visiting the orthodontist as positive or extremely positive. Patient-friendly offices with entertaining video games, music and/or reading materials help young patients enjoy their visits to the orthodontist's office. And computer software that can predict the post-treatment appearance may help keep patients motivated.