Malocclusion, Orthodontics and Bullying

From Volume 28, Issue 9, November 2001 | Pages 464-466

Authors

A.T. DiBiase

BDS(Hons), MSc, FDS RCS, MOrth

Senior Registrar, Department of Orthodontics and Restorative Dentistry, Glenfield Hospital, Leicester

Articles by A.T. DiBiase

P.J. Sandler

BDS(Hons), MSc, FDS RCPS, MOrth RCS

Consultant Orthodontist, Royal Hospital, Chesterfield

Articles by P.J. Sandler

Abstract

Bullying is endemic among schoolchildren, and the effects can be devastating and long lasting. The persistently bullied child appears to represent a certain psychological type, with poorly developed social skills and a submissive nature. Physical appearance does appear to play a role, which includes facial and dental appearance, although these tend not to be primary factors. Teasing related to dental appearance appears to be particularly hurtful. There is little evidence of a marked increase in self-esteem following orthodontic treatment in children, but in adults following treatment there is an improvement of body concept. The long-term psychological benefits of orthodontic treatment are difficult to measure but there is an increasing awareness of malocclusion with age.

Article