Orthodontics for School Children

Many schoolchildren who are unaware or orthodontics could be insensitive to those with braces. There has been a long history of children wearing braces being vulnerable to teasing, and even bullying. This can be difficult for the children to cope with. Alongside the feelings of embarrassment, orthodontics can also therefore impact on self esteem. Teachers should be aware of the sensitivities surround orthodontics. Explaining what orthodontics is can help take the stigma away. And the fact that it's likely a significant amount of children will have to undergo orthodontics at some point in their school life – an estimated one third of children will need orthodontics, with an additional third being borderline cases for orthodontic treatment. The commonness of the problem makes it more important for children to understand about dental health.

Orthodontics is simply correcting irregularities in a child's mouth; crooked teeth or problems with developing jaws can impact aesthetically on a child's appearance, they can also impact practically in terms of how well the mouth, teeth and jaw function. Orthodontics is a step beyond regular dentistry, and the most common procedure is to fix braces to straighten teeth. It's unfortunate that the majority of cases occur during early teenage years when children are most sensitive and self conscious.

Orthodontics also requires frequent appointments – usually an appointment with the orthodontist is every four to six weeks to diagnose the problem, fit the braces or appliances, and make necessary adjustments. Teachers should be aware that some pupils undergoing orthodontics may experience discomfort for the first few days wearing braces, but this can be dealt with using paracetamol. Braces can be worn for up to two years. Also, pupils wearing braces should also wear mouth guards during sports classes to safeguard the mouth from being cut by the braces. If pupils play a musical instrument, they should take out removable braces, or consult their orthodontist with any questions.

At the Harley Street Dental Studio in Central London, renowned dentist Dr Mark Hughes and his team of highly trained clinicians offer outstanding care and attention to their patients. Favoured by celebrities of the sporting and entertainment worlds, the clinic offers treatments including dental veneers, tooth whitening, porcelain crowns, amalgam-free fillings and clear braces. To discuss your dental needs or make an appointment, contact the studio on 020 7636 5981 or fill out the online contact form.