The benefits of braces are wide-ranging, from health benefits (which we discussed in a post published a couple of weeks ago) to cosmetic benefits and improvement in self-esteem. Gaining confidence and improving self-esteem is one of the main reasons why people seek orthodontic treatment.
People with crooked teeth or bad bites will often become self-conscious about their smile, leading them to smile with their lips closed, cover their mouths when laughing, or avoid speaking up when around strangers in an effort to hide their teeth. Many develop issues with low self-esteem because of their teeth.
Having healthy self-esteem and self-confidence is especially important for children, as it can impact their mental and emotional well-being during their early years of critical development and can shape the person they grow up to be. According to AskDrSears.com, “Self-esteem is your child’s passport to a lifetime of mental health and social happiness. It’s the foundation of a child’s well-being and the key to success as an adult. At all ages, how you feel about yourself affects how you act.”
Correcting crooked teeth or a bad bite early on can have a huge impact on a child’s self-confidence, encouraging them to smile with confidence and feel good about themselves.
This was exactly why Michael, one of the children we recently awarded an orthodontic scholarship to, wanted to get braces. Eleven-year-old Michael had struggled with self-esteem issues stemming from poorly aligned teeth. He dealt with bullying from other kids who made fun of him because of his crooked teeth. His teeth also impacted his speech, which caused additional problems at school. Michael’s teachers said he often walked with his head down and had been hesitant to talk to others. Getting braces was an exciting moment for Michael, because he now knows what straighter teeth will do for his self-esteem and his confidence in school.
After orthodontic treatment, the improvement in self-esteem and self-confidence can be truly life changing for patients. A beautiful “Molen smile” can help ease self-consciousness and allow patients to laugh, smile, and speak with pride! The benefits of braces are truly priceless!
Choosing the experts at Molen Orthodontics to design your smile or your child’s smile can help you get a major confidence boost and will be one of the best investments you will make in your appearance and health.