Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you so having an attractive smile usually helps to create a positive impression. If you do not have an attractive smile this may alter the way people perceive you. With children issues such as protruding teeth, crooked teeth and irregular facial features can often be the source of why a child is being bullied by their peers. In fact, recent research carried out by orthodontic specialists in the UK found that children with irregular dental features are more likely to experience bullying.

A healthy attractive smile has been linked to good academic performance and high levels of confidence by numerous researchers. If a child is happy about the way their teeth look, they are more likely to show off their smile and feel better about their overall appearance. Good oral health and a healthy, radiant smile have also been linked to success in relationships and in the world of work later in life.

A healthy smile is also important for good general health. Many studies have now shown that poor oral health contributes to an increased risk of serious health conditions. Children who have poor oral hygiene habits and a poor diet are more likely to suffer from poor oral health in their adult years.

In order to give your child the best possible chance of having a healthy and bright smile, it is important to encourage good oral hygiene habits from an early age. Encourage your child to brush their teeth twice a day, limit the amount of sugary foodstuffs they consume and take them to see a dentist on a regular basis.

If they suffer from orthodontic problems, such as crooked, crowded or poorly positioned teeth, ask your dentist for advice. Orthodontic problems are very common and many children will undergo treatment during their adolescent years. Orthodontic treatments may not be suitable for younger children and they may be encouraged to wait until their mouth has grown.