If your teenager is responsible enough to wear contact lenses and is asking to make the switch from eyeglasses at this year's eye exam appointment, then it is important that you take their request seriously. Often, wearing eyeglasses can make teenagers feel self-conscious, and this can negatively affect their self-esteem. With the wonderful options available today for contact lenses, you can be assured that they are safe and appropriate for your teenager. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when it comes to teen contact lens use, such as:

Reusable Contact Lenses vs. Daily Disposables

When contact lenses first came on the market, they were made of stiffer plastics and were often uncomfortable to wear. However, today's options are very comfortable and softer than ever before. In fact, you can even purchase contacts today that are disposable after a single day's wear. 

When you take your teen to the optometrist, you will need to decide if you want lenses that are disposable or those that require daily cleaning and are worn day after day. Many parents prefer daily disposable lenses because they require less maintenance and are easier for your teen to wear.

The Use of Contact Lenses During Physical Activities

When your teen is new to wearing contact lenses, it is important that you speak to them about the dangers that come from a torn lens or getting dirt under their contact lenses while participating in sports. Contact sports and those such as swimming or water polo are often times when contacts can become damaged, so wearing contacts during these activities should possibly be avoided. If your teenager plays sports for their school, then you should address this issue with your optometrist to determine if a backup pair of prescription glasses or prescription goggles is appropriate.  

The Cost of Contact Lenses and a Backup Pair of Eyeglasses

Finally, as a parent, it is important that you understand that your teen will always need a backup pair of glasses with their contact lenses. When your teen's eyes are tired at the end of the day, or if they catch a common childhood disease at school such as pinkeye, they will need eyeglasses that they can wear while their eyes heal. Since you will need to purchase both eyeglasses and contact lenses, you will have additional costs involved if you permit your teen to move from daily eyeglass wear to contact lenses.

To learn more about contact lenses, check out websites like http://www.the-eye-center.com.