As Anti-Bullying Week kicks off today, new research, shared by BOS at The British Orthodontic Conference (BOC) in Birmingham, reveals a strong link between teeth and bullying.
A sample of 700 school children aged 10 to 14 years revealed that children are bullied because of their teeth – particularly due to them sticking out. This is mainly name calling, mean comments and teasing.
In addition, children with a malocclusion affecting the aesthetics of their smile are more likely to feel lonely at school. This is especially prevalent in girls.
The press gathering at BOC included insights from research undertaken by Andrew DiBiase. There was also a talk on real life experiences of bullying from Olga Thompson, aka Big Fat Greek Mother – comedienne, influencer and ambassador for Kidscape,
Every year, tens of thousands of young people embark on orthodontic treatment. Teenagers can face many challenges as they transition to the next stage in their lives. Sadly bullying can have a devastating lifelong impact.
On the back of this research, The British Orthodontic Society (BOS) also wants to tackle the issue head on. It aims to ensure everyone working in orthodontics is equipped with the tools to support young people.
Positive impact
Alongside the anti-bullying charity Kidscape, BOS has developed top tips and signposting for support. These can be found online at: bos.org.uk/professionals-members/bullying.
On a positive note, the research also demonstrated how orthodontic treatment can transform people’s perception of themselves with a positive impact on self-esteem.
This was brought to life at the press event at BOC. Ryan, 30 and Katherine, 19, both from Birmingham, talked about the impact of bullying and how orthodontic treatment can transform lives.
Anjli Patel is director of external relations at BOS. She said: ‘The BOS wants everyone working in orthodontics to know how to support a young person that might be experiencing bullying.
‘We’re not the experts in bullying so we’re delighted to be working alongside the anti-bullying charity Kidscape. We look forward to this being an ongoing initiative.’
Paula Timms, CEO of Kidscape, added: ‘At Kidscape, we understand the impact of bullying on children’s mental health and wellbeing. This research has highlighted that children are often bullied due to their appearance relating to malocclusion.
‘This highlights to us the importance of ensuring that professionals working within orthodontics and dentistry are able to respond effectively to children and young people who are bullied.
‘We are excited that the collaboration with The British Orthodontic Society will enable us to work together to tackle bullying and help more children stay safe from harm.’
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