As a dentist specializing in orthodontics and dental aesthetics , graduated from the University of Melbourne, Faculty of Dentistry – Australia and currently working in Cambridge, I have always been deeply interested in the oral health of the community – especially in the group of teenagers. Over the years, I have noticed that the condition of malocclusion, crowded teeth, protruding or spaced teeth in this age group not only affects aesthetics but also seriously affects health and psychology.
According to figures from Public Health England , around one-third of children in the UK aged 12–15 have a problem with their bite or crooked teeth that requires orthodontic intervention. Of these: About 15% have a deep bite, which causes the upper front teeth to cover too much of the lower teeth.10% have crowded teeth, making oral hygiene difficult.8% have open bite, making speech and chewing difficult.It is worth noting that although the NHS does offer orthodontic support for children, only those cases that are considered “severe” are eligible. This leaves many mild or moderate cases – which can still have long-term effects – unaddressed.
Long-term dental health problems Crooked or crowded teeth make cleaning difficult, allowing plaque to build up, leading to early tooth decay and periodontal disease. Some studies show that people with crowded teeth are 2.5 times more likely to develop tooth decay than people with straight teeth.Affects chewing and digestion function. An incorrect bite can cause difficulty in biting and chewing, increasing the burden on the digestive system. In some cases, patients experience jaw muscle pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.Psychological impact: Adolescence is a sensitive period regarding appearance. An unconfident smile can make them shy away from communication, limit their participation in social activities and affect their psychological development, even leading to long-term inferiority complex.Difficulties in treatment in adulthood When the jawbone is fully developed, orthodontics will take longer, be more complicated and sometimes require surgical intervention. Early treatment in adolescence takes advantage of the period when the jawbone is still growing, shortening the time and cost.
In recent times, I have encountered many cases of young patients or parents seeking “do-it-yourself” solutions such as buying braces online or using cheap aligners without the supervision of a doctor. The result is: The bite is more severely misaligned.Loose teeth due to improper force.Gingival damage and alveolar bone loss.This shows that orthodontics is not just about “straightening teeth” but is a complex medical procedure that requires: Extensive knowledge of maxillofacial anatomy, physiology and biomechanics.Modern tools and technology such as 3D scanners, smile simulation software, advanced bracket systems or clear aligners.Individualized treatment plans based on each patient, ensuring safety and long-term effectiveness.At SmileBright Dental Clinic , we apply technologies such as Intraoral Scanner iTero , Smile Design Software and Invisalign orthodontic system or Damon Q braces. The treatment process always complies with the standards of the American Dental Association (ADA) and the International Dental Federation (FDI) .
In addition to orthodontics, dental aesthetics is a field that helps increase self-confidence and improve personal image. Cosmetic methods such as teeth whitening , porcelain veneers , all-ceramic crowns , or smile line adjustment not only have aesthetic factors but also support oral health. Some outstanding benefits of dental aesthetics: Increase confidence: A bright, even smile helps you communicate comfortably and create a good impression in both work and personal life.Improved function: Some cosmetic procedures such as porcelain dental restorations not only look beautiful but also help restore chewing function.Protect tooth structure: Veneers or porcelain crowns can protect the surface of natural teeth from wear or discoloration.Support mental health: When patients are satisfied with their smile, they are often more open to communication and feel happier.
As a dentist specializing in orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry, I believe that early detection and treatment of dental problems in adolescents is extremely important . This not only protects their long-term oral health but also helps them gain more confidence during their development. I always encourage parents to take their children to reputable dental clinics, run by qualified doctors and using modern technology. We should not compromise our children's oral health with cheap but potentially risky solutions. A healthy and beautiful smile is not only a personal asset, but also a door that opens up new opportunities in life. And it is our job – as dentists – to ensure that every patient walks out of our clinic with confidence and happiness on their face.
