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Orthodontic Braces: Preventing Playground Teasing

Sticks and Stones and The Halo Effect

Beauty is good. Beauty is character. Beauty is competence. That's the "halo effect." And the halo effect is alive and well and living on playgrounds everywhere.

What's the effect of the halo effect?

Not so good, if you're one of the unfortunates without a halo. Especially if you're a child called Beaver or Dopey or Goofy.

Not so long ago, a study of British schoolchildren revealed that the appearance of teeth was the fourth most common target for teasing. Children suffered under nicknames like Bugs Bunny, Fang and Dracula. Furthermore, children who were teased were twice as likely to be harassed, subject to verbal or physical intimidation, lying or other abuses, than children who were not teased.

Although height, weight and hair were also factors in teasing, ridicule about their teeth caused children the greatest amount of unhappiness.

Researchers were concerned that exposure to the sustained taunts and insults of peers would predispose some children to a lowered self-confidence and self-image.

The Solution? Orthodontics — The Sooner The Better

Thousands of children need early care — some as young as three years old. Early diagnosis and monitoring allows us to take full advantage of a time when your child's bone and facial structure are easier to shape.

If you think the odds of a young child having orthodontic problems are remote, consider these facts: Two out of three people have orthodontic problems, which should be treated. A fourth of the problems are severe, says the American Association of Orthodontists. Orthodontic defects aren't limited to protruding teeth or underbites.

Often the problems relate to the overall structure of the mouth and face. Frequently they don't show up in a smile at all.

That's why an orthodontic checkup and braces, if necessary, should be a part of every child's health care program.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.

Learn About the Cost of Braces from a Dentist or Orthodontist

When contemplating orthodontic treatment, the cost of braces can be a major concern. Though there's plenty of variation depending on where you are and what sort of treatment you want, on average, dental braces cost about $5,000.

Dental insurance does not always cover orthodontics. Some dental plans may offer supplemental orthodontic insurance plans. If you are insured, you should check with your insurance carrier to see if they will cover getting braces.

In general, teen braces tend to be the most affordable braces option. (Since teens' teeth are still developing, it can be technically easier to straighten crooked teeth.) Adult braces can cost a little more, especially if you choose cosmetic dentistry options like invisible braces or ceramic braces that have tooth-colored ceramic brackets.

"Clear braces" are a popular choice. Invisalign braces are not actually braces per se; they are clear plastic aligners that straighten teeth. Patients get a progressive series of aligners that move crooked teeth into the desired position. Cosmetic dentists and their patients often prefer the look of Invisalign. The average Invisalign cost is about the same as for adult braces.

Your braces expense will also depend on what sort of braces dentists you see. Orthodontists tend to charge about $600 more than general dentists for orthodontic work. While a general dentist may be fully qualified to offer braces, an orthodontist will have completed several extra years of study, and will be capable of handling more complicated orthodontia.

The cost of dental braces varies by region. Orthodontic treatment costs the most in the Northeast, the Pacific states, and Canada. Affordable braces can most easily be found in the Western mountain states. In addition, urban dentists charge more for orthodontic treatment than do suburban or rural doctors.

Whether it's for yourself or your child, getting braces is a big choice, and can be a significant expense. But in the long run, straight teeth are a priceless reward.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.