Most people want to have straight teeth as this is considered to be more attractive. Also, it is easier to clean teeth when they are evenly aligned. Thankfully, it is now possible for those who are not born with the perfect smile to head to an orthodontist in London or elsewhere to receive appropriate treatment. And if they do not receive such assistance when they are a child, they can arrange to have adult braces later in life.
New research has brought into focus the seriousness of uneven smiles. Conducted by a team of hospital-based clinicians who primarily treat children with misaligned teeth and jaw bone deficiencies, the study polled 336 adolescents who were between ten and 14 years old and who needed orthodontic treatment. It found that nearly 13 per cent had been bullied.
According to the scientists involved in the study, which was published in the Journal of Orthodontics, having ‘sticking out teeth’ is a major cause of bullying.
Meanwhile, youngsters who were being targeted due to the presence of a malocclusion reported a negative impact on self-esteem.
In the study a leading dentist , stated: “As health care professionals, we feel that it is our duty to raise awareness of this. We feel that any bullying for whatever reason is unacceptable and should not be tolerated.
“The treatment for malocclusion usually involves the use of braces (orthodontic treatment) in combination with other treatment to correct the problems. It has previously been shown that children with ‘sticking out teeth’ and ‘crooked teeth’ are subjected to teasing related to the position and appearance of their teeth.”
In such cases, braces are commonly prescribed to help improve the alignment of the teeth. Some individuals who require treatment will head to an orthodontist in London. Meanwhile, anyone who does not benefit from such help when they are young can investigate the possibility of adult braces.