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Orthodontic Braces: Preventing Playground Teasing

Sticks and Stones and The Halo Effect

Beauty is good. Beauty is character. Beauty is competence. That's the "halo effect." And the halo effect is alive and well and living on playgrounds everywhere.

What's the effect of the halo effect?

Not so good, if you're one of the unfortunates without a halo. Especially if you're a child called Beaver or Dopey or Goofy.

Not so long ago, a study of British schoolchildren revealed that the appearance of teeth was the fourth most common target for teasing. Children suffered under nicknames like Bugs Bunny, Fang and Dracula. Furthermore, children who were teased were twice as likely to be harassed, subject to verbal or physical intimidation, lying or other abuses, than children who were not teased.

Although height, weight and hair were also factors in teasing, ridicule about their teeth caused children the greatest amount of unhappiness.

Researchers were concerned that exposure to the sustained taunts and insults of peers would predispose some children to a lowered self-confidence and self-image.

The Solution? Orthodontics — The Sooner The Better

Thousands of children need early care — some as young as three years old. Early diagnosis and monitoring allows us to take full advantage of a time when your child's bone and facial structure are easier to shape.

If you think the odds of a young child having orthodontic problems are remote, consider these facts: Two out of three people have orthodontic problems, which should be treated. A fourth of the problems are severe, says the American Association of Orthodontists. Orthodontic defects aren't limited to protruding teeth or underbites.

Often the problems relate to the overall structure of the mouth and face. Frequently they don't show up in a smile at all.

That's why an orthodontic checkup and braces, if necessary, should be a part of every child's health care program.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.

Teen Braces: Straight Teeth In Progress!

Many pre-teens and young teenagers have colorful smiles -- they wear braces. Today's teen braces bear little resemblance to the "train tracks" that baby boomers may remember from their youth -- they're updated in style and make a colorful fashion statement that's good for their teeth! You can even get invisible braces, which are made by Invisalign.

Why Do Kids Wear Braces?

It's not surprising that many teenagers wear braces. Dental experts estimate that more than two-thirds of the population need braces to correct dental problems that occur, including teeth that protrude or are crooked, teeth that overlap and crowd each other, and teeth that have gaps between them. In addition, some children need braces to align their teeth and correct their bite. Whatever the condition, children recognize that they will enhance their appearance in the long term. Parents know that they are actually making an investment in their child's health and appearance. Now with invisible braces children won't have to be self conscious of their smile when the are wearing orthodontic braces!

What Happens If They Don't Get Orthodontic Braces?

Not everyone who needs orthodontic braces gets them. Children who have problems with their teeth will not outgrow them, nor will their teeth "just take care of themselves." Crooked teeth or overlapping teeth will stay that way, and will be difficult to clean, which can lead to bacteria growth and gum disease. Bites that need correcting will cause difficulty in biting or chewing as time goes on. Teeth that are not aligned correctly may wear the enamel more quickly, which exposes the teeth to more damage.

When Should My Child Visit an Orthodontic Dentist?

It's a good idea to schedule an appointment with an orthodontist when your child's permanent teeth appear, sometime between the ages of five and seven. Your family dentist may recommend an orthodontic dentist in your area if he isn't able to fulfill your needs. You may also ask friends whose children have had orthodontic braces if they have any recommendations.

An early appointment is advised to spot any potential problems that require treatment. Timing is critical since delaying treatment can multiply some dental problems. The orthodontist will be able to tell you how your child's mouth is developing and whether any problems exist. At early ages, children's jaws are still growing; at about age 12, the mouth and jawbones begin to harden. Some children at the earlier ages require a retainer, which sometimes eliminates the need for teen braces at a later age. After this age any structural work may require complex surgery so early treatment is advised.

Smile - Straight Teeth in Progress!

Because so many children have braces these days, much of the stigma of teen braces has disappeared. In fact, teen braces are often viewed as a fashionable rite of passage. While your child may experience some good-natured ribbing at first, chances are that lots of classmates have braces, too. Remind them that their smile -- and their dental health -- is important to you, and that it won't be long before the braces give way to straight, healthy teeth, guaranteed to make them smile! Plus invisible braces by Invisalign could allow your child to repair crooked teeth and have the smile they have always wanted without the teasing from their peers.

By Danine M. Fresch, D.D.S.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.