Posted on February 1, 2019
If you’re like me, you’ve probably blocked out some of the more cringe-inducing memories of your teenage years, but I’m sure you remember that being a teenager can be HARD – and having a smile you’re not proud of can make it even harder. Though we encourage otherwise, it’s an undeniable fact that many teens’ self-esteem is tied largely in part to their outward appearance and comparing it to that of their peers. As much as we try to drive home the very true point that it’s what’s on the inside that counts, sometimes believing that is easier said than done in the appearance-driven society we live in.
According to a study done by StageOfLife.com, 59% of teens feel inferior based on their appearance. That’s unfortunately an incredibly high number. Helping your child feel confident about the smile they share with the world can play a bigger, more complex role in their lifelong self-esteem than you might think. However, fixing their smile is about much more than just helping your child feel great about their looks. It’s also important for their overall long-term oral health. Are you wondering if your child is in need of orthodontic care? Below are 8 signs to look out for:
1) Did your child lose their teeth early or late in life?
2) Do they have difficulty chewing or biting?
3) Are their teeth crowded, or do they have extra space between them?
4) Does their jaw click or make sounds when chewing?
5) Do they frequently bite their cheeks or the inside of their mouth?
6) When they bite down, do their teeth meet awkwardly, or not at all?
7) Are their teeth out of proportion with the rest of their mouth?
8) Do their teeth stick out?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, I would recommend that you make an appointment with us at Hudson Orthodontics in Springfield, Centreville or Fairfax to get your teen’s smile evaluated. Not only will it put your mind at ease, it could most definitely lead to your teen feeling much more confident in the feature they use to communicate with the world- their smile! If your teen is worried about the aesthetic complaints commonly associated with having braces, have no fear- there are lots of more subtle options treatment options available, including clear braces & Invisalign clear aligners, and we’ll be happy to explain all of options to you and your child in detail at your consultation.
Wishing you and your teen a great 2019,
Dr. Hudson
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