A national study done by Invisalign and Kleton Research shows that one-third of the 1,047 people surveyed believe that teeth are the first facial feature remembered after meeting a new person for the first time. Those who showed off their smile were thought to be happier, more friendly, healthy, popular, and more trustworthy than those who were hesitant to display their teeth. This illustrates that a person's smile is an important tool for socialization. Particularly for teenagers, a healthy smile is also an important part of blending in with peers and having confidence when dealing with teachers and other students.

"We all know that children can become very self-conscious, and are highly focused on their physical appearance. A boy or girl who doesn't feel good about their smile may lack the self-esteem that is necessary to excel socially and even academically. Unfortunately, a crooked smile can influence young children, teens and adults alike, to withdraw from personal interactions and may even be the subject of teasing from peers. Orthodontics can provide a tremendous benefit to one's social development in addition to insuring a healthy and long-lasting healthy set of teeth. Orthodontic treatment is an investment that can provide life-long benefits," states Dr. Morrow of York Mills Orthodontics.

In addition to improving physical appearance, a straight smile also provides a number of health benefits. The Surgeon General's Oral Health Report of 2000 explains that good oral health is essential in order to allow a person to speak, smile, chew, and make facial expressions properly. Teeth that are crooked and bites that are not properly aligned may interfere with these day-to-day activities, causing complications for the person.

Tooth decay is another serious issue that is far too common among kids. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that tooth decay impacts 18 percent of children ages two to four in the United States. Fifty-two percent of kids ages six to eight and 61 percent of teenagers ages 15 or older also deal with tooth decay. In fact, dental decay is the most common chronic disease among those ages five to 17. For this reason, good oral hygiene practices and a healthy diet should remain an important fixture in a child or teenager's life.

"Straight teeth and a healthy bite are an integral part of maintaining a healthy, disease-free mouth. Not only can orthodontics improve one's confidence, but it will also improve daily function and help keep disease such as gingivitis, periodontitis and tooth decay away for years to come," explains Dr. David Morrow, at York Mills Orthodontics.

ABOUT:

York Mills Orthodontics is committed to providing comprehensive orthodontic treatment for patients of all ages. The practice provides orthodontic treatment for adolescents and teenagers including interceptive treatment, functional appliance therapy, braces, invisible braces and Invisalign treatment options, to name a few. The practice also serves adults of all ages; in fact, 20-25 percent of those who come to the practice seeking orthodontic treatment, are adults looking to improve their health and function, and the appearance of their smile. Dr. David Morrow and his team at York Mills Orthodontics, work hard to achieve the goals of their patients by providing the highest standard of care that is possible.