Far too many people are self-conscious about their smiles, and too embarrassed to smile without covering their mouths. The role that orthodontics plays in the self-esteem of my patients is immeasurable.

I would predict that adolescents are most positively influenced by their improved smile. At this stage in children’s lives, there is a lot of peer pressure in school for them to look good.   

• Young children (ages 7-10) hate to be the victims of cruel jokes about their crooked teeth, their double rows of teeth, their buckteeth or their open teeth (often the result of a finger or tongue habit). In fact, one of the main reasons why many orthodontists do early treatment before all of a child’s permanent teeth erupt is to help to improve a child’s self-esteem.  

• Adults enjoy improvement in their appearance as well. Many of my adult patients, post-orthodontic therapy, tell me things like, “When I look in the mirror, I can hardly believe that the smile I see is mine” or “It’s a miracle. I have been embarrassed about my teeth all my life, and now I can look people straight in the eye and smile. For the first time in my life my teeth look great!” In fact, adults are enjoying the benefits of orthodontics so much, that approximately 1/4 of all orthodontic patients are now adults.  

Orthodontics has come a long way over the last 10-15 years. Firstly, almost all braces are bonded onto the teeth. As a result, braces are becoming smaller and more attractive. Secondly, for those who need braces, clear braces are now so strong and durable that they are a viable option to traditional metal braces. Of my adult patients, 95% now wear clear braces and are pleased with the subtle appearance. For patients who do not need bonded braces, Invisalign offers a very attractive alternative, as this technology uses small, clear, removable plastic appliances that are virtually transparent.  

I believe that the most overlooked benefit of orthodontics is the improved self-esteem that patients experience when they become proud of their smiles. With orthodontics as an option, children and adults alike should be able to smile with confidence.