The teeth is one of those physical attributes that draws attention the most, and its condition affects esteem very much in ways more than you think. Some people are lucky to have teeth that grow well as they go through puberty stage. For people with overcrowded or wide-spaced teeth, however, the adolescence is the least pleasant stage of growing up.
Research found that not only do teeth imperfections affect teens’ self-esteem because of its effect on their physical appearance, it also makes them more prone to being bullied. In a study conducted among sixth grade students, a significant number of children have been found to experience bullying because of dental appearance. Teeth is the number one factor for attacks, according to the study, followed only by strength and weight. The most commonly reported targets are those with wide spacing, missing teeth, badly shaped teeth and prominent upper front teeth.
Metal braces are effective solutions for malformed teeth, but teens who do wear the application still end up earning cruel names, the most common of which is “metal mouth”, only further amplifying the agony. Adolescents are highly self-conscious and this bullying can have severe effects on their self-image, which they can take to heart until adulthood.
Fortunately, teens can still straighten their teeth without having to wear metal braces. A cosmetic dentist in Wilkes-Barre like in Back Mountain Dental offers Invisalign braces, deemed to be one of the best advancements created in the field of cosmetic dentistry, as alternative. It can help teens’ teeth form correctly without the very obvious “metal mouth”.
The system makes use of a clear, removable, non-irritating pairs of plastic aligners custom fit to the teeth. Each pair is worn depending on how much effort is needed to strengthen the teeth. These aligners can also be removed for brushing and while eating to avoid embarrassing chances of food being stuck to it. If your child has other dental problems more than crooked teeth, clinics that offer cosmetic dentistry in Scranton, PA are sure to have other alternative solutions.
Although straightening teeth out may seem more founded on vanity reasons, the study cited above should be proof enough of just how damaging it can be to a growing teen’s self-esteem and social confidence. Address these cosmetic issues now with the help of your dentist to prevent exposing your child to bullying.
