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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.

Invisalign Invisible Braces: Should I Choose Them Over Other Dental Braces?

Invisible Braces

Choose invisible braces, so no one can tell you're wearing braces to straighten your teeth. Now you can smile during treatment as well as after.

Removable Braces

They're removable, so you can eat and drink what you want during your Invisalign braces treatment; plus brushing and flossing with your invisible braces isn't a problem. Just take them out, brush and floss and put them back in.

Comfortable Braces

Invisalign braces are comfortable because there is no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment. And no metal and wires usually means you spend less time in your doctor's office getting adjustments. Call your orthodontist to see if invisible braces are right for you.

+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.