You’ve probably experienced it first-hand or witnessed someone being called names such as ‘Buck teeth’ or ‘Gap teeth’. Teasing or name-calling may seem like a joke to some but this act of bullying can damage a teenager’s self-esteem.
Having ‘ugly teeth’ is a problem of bullying, according to a study published in the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, which found that teeth were the main targeted physical feature to increase a child’s chance of being bullied.
Closer to home, teenagers in Singapore too can relate to being teased and bullied for having misaligned teeth.
For some time now, orthodontists have been aware of the relationship between unattractive teeth and low self-esteem. Not only for kids, but patients of all ages. A smile and one’s teeth are the features people first notice when you walk into a room. A confident smile is also important to communicate and develop relationships as teenagers mature.
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment for your teen, we’ve laid down everything you need to know here.