John is a parent. Liz is a minor. She would not stop sucking. She hid her sucking from her parents knowing she should and needs to stop which is why she hides her nasty habit. By age of 10, on the precipe of becoming a tween, when her dentals are about to become permanent, something needs to be done. John is within his parent authority and rights to put in the retainer. It is an investment in a good dental health. John knows Liz is a child and does not care about investment but about her friends will say. A good parent will sympathize about that but will act in the best interest of their children whether they agree or like it. Parents will give choices if they don’t affect their futures, their health, etc. When Liz grows up, you can ask her if she still thinks her dad forcing the retainer on her was a wrong thing to do or abuse as some readers suggested. My bet is she will say no, he did not do the wrong thing, that he knew what was the best for her and is glad he made her go to his office for the installment of the retainer as she appreciates her nice set of pearlys.
Ben was last seen on the strip way more than 4 years ago. It’s been a long time since he was last in Pittsville. It is only Luann who looks the same which is why Ben recognizes her instantly. Nothing ever changes in Luann – only she is surprised that others change.
Well, Luann. He was a young man when you last saw him. Fresh out of high school or college. Now he is a mature man and a father. Just look at your dad. What do you think how an old high school girlfriend would react to seeing your dad now – pretty the same as you are now.
Your folks are right. Let them think you’re wearing the retainer as braces and not as a method to stop thumb-sucking. Just say, "Yeah. I gotta wear retainer so I hope it’ll straighten my teeth so I don’t have to have full braces later. My dad is a dentist, ya know. "
Smart girl, Shannon. She knows something weird and possibly inappropriate is going on. If she watches TV, she probably interrupted before they remove their clothes which she doesn’t want to see.
Yep, Ben, you said it. You can count on her not changing. She’s quite dependable in that area.