May is National Teen self-esteem month, designed to raise awareness of the difficulties teenagers face with their confidence and self-image.
Teeth, being one of the most prominent features of the face, can have a significant impact on a teenager's self-confidence. According to a study conducted by the British Orthodontic Society, around a third of teenagers in the UK are unhappy with their teeth, which can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and social isolation.
If this rings true for you, and your child’s teeth are having an impact on their self-confidence, you’ll be pleased to hear that orthodontic treatment could fill them with the confidence they need to take on life’s most important moments: making friends, starting university, and job interviews!
In this blog, we’ll explain what orthodontic treatment is, and all the ways it could help your teenager to feel like their best self.
What is orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is a common form of dental therapy that aims to correct various oral health problems such as malocclusion, crowding, and improper jaw alignment.
At New Smile Fulham, we offer a range of different orthodontic solutions: Invisalign clear aligners, metal ‘train-track’ braces, and ceramic tooth-coloured braces. No treatment is a ‘one size fits all’, and the right one for your child depends on their specific misalignment.
If your child is suitable, Invisalign treatment may be a perfect option for them - the aligners are nearly invisible, meaning they’re the most discreet of all. It’s unlikely anyone will even notice they’re having treatment, which avoids self-consciousness around visible brackets and wires.
So, how could orthodontic treatment boost your child’s confidence?
A straighter smile
Orthodontic treatment can dramatically improve the appearance of a teenager's teeth and smile, which can have a positive impact on their self-confidence. Crooked or misaligned teeth can make teenagers feel self-conscious and embarrassed, especially when they smile or speak in public.
Orthodontic treatment can help straighten teeth, close gaps between them, and correct overbites, underbites, and other bite-related issues.
Reduced risk of bullying
Bullying is a significant issue in schools and, unfortunately, physical appearance is one of the primary reasons why teenagers are targeted.
A smile with crooked or misaligned teeth can make a teenager feel more vulnerable to bullying, and this can affect their self-esteem and confidence. Orthodontic treatment can help correct these issues and reduce the likelihood of bullying.
In a study conducted by the Journal of Adolescent Health, it was found that teenagers who received orthodontic treatment reported a significant reduction in bullying compared to those who did not receive treatment. They also reported feeling more confident and happier with their overall appearance, leading to better mental health.
They’ll find it easier to communicate
Communication is a critical aspect of life, and teenagers with dental problems may find it challenging to communicate effectively. For example, a teenager with an overbite may find it difficult to pronounce certain words, leading to embarrassment and self-consciousness. Orthodontic treatment can help correct these problems and improve the clarity of speech.
A study published in the European Journal of Orthodontics found that teenagers who received orthodontic treatment reported a significant improvement in their speech quality, leading to better communication skills. They reported feeling more confident while speaking, leading to better communication with peers and improved academic performance.
Improved oral health
Orthodontic treatment can also have significant benefits for oral health. Misaligned teeth can be challenging to clean, leading to a buildup of plaque and bacteria, which can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Orthodontic treatment can help straighten teeth, making them easier to clean and reducing the risk of oral health problems.
A study published in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics found that teenagers who received orthodontic treatment reported an improvement in their oral health. They reported experiencing fewer cavities, less gum bleeding, and less bad breath.
Improved confidence in social situations
Teenagers with dental issues may find it challenging to socialise and make friends, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Orthodontic treatment can help improve self-esteem and give teenagers the confidence to interact with their peers.
Where can your child get orthodontic treatment in Fulham?
At our Fulham dental practice, we’re committed to helping you get the straight smile of your dreams. Our dentists are experts in using Invisalign to transform patients’ smiles precisely and effectively.
If you’re looking for a perfectly aligned smile for your child, we would love to help! We’re now accepting new patients and have no waiting lists for treatment, so we can get them booked right away.
Visit our website to arrange an initial consultation or contact our friendly team to ask any questions.