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It's National Teen self-esteem month in the month of May, so what better time to talk about the importance of teen self-esteem. Actually self-esteem in all ages is really important! National Teen Self-Esteem Month was established to create awareness about the negative effects poor self-esteem causes among the teen population. During this month, parents and guardians are encouraged to act as positive role models, help stop negative self-images, and improve confidence and security among adolescents.

What is self -esteem? The Webster’s dictionary says: Self-Esteem-The esteem or good opinion of oneself. Now lets look at what Esteem is- to set value on, to regard with respect. So, for us to have self-esteem we need to have a good view of ourselves and be respectful to ourselves as well. Why is self-esteem so important? One, we make better decisions for ourselves when we are not lacking self-esteem. We want to value who we are, love who we are and make good decisions for our self, to reinforce our self worth, thereby strengthening our self-esteem.

Treating ourselves with respect is totally in our hands, we have complete control over this one. If you have the choice to do something good or bad for yourself, you have the choice to do what’s good, and no one can stop you. We have to remember that our opinion of ourselves really starts with us, not outside influences - not people, not the media!

Here are a couple quick tips to strengthen and maintain our sense of self and build confidence:

• Learn to love yourself for who you are
• Respect yourself, make good decisions
• Know your opinions of yourself, come from you, not the opinions of others
• Realize what make you shine is on the inside, not what you look like

So, go out in the world and know you are good enough and are perfect just the way you are. And remember, although it might sound cliche, treat others the way you want to be treated!

MYTH: Braces are for kids.
FACT: One in five orthodontic patients is an adult.

MYTH: Braces are painful and take two years or more for the desired result.
FACT: After the adjustment period, like breaking in a new pair of shoes, braces are comfortable. Some may be worn for months, it all depends on your situation and the type of braces that are chosen.

MYTH: There are signals sent from braces link to the Internet to download songs.
FACT: This is an interesting idea, but its not possible at the moment. Maybe it's a feature they could work on?

MYTH: Braces are ugly, call attention to themselves and would be embarrassing in business settings.
FACT: Today's braces can be nearly invisible, there are lots of options and Kennell Orthodontics can work with you to find the best solution for you.

The bottom line is there are a lot of rumors and stories that go around about braces, but come in for a consultation and let us walk you through the process and figure out what will work best for you and your orthodontic health.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends to:
Play it safe!
Wear a mouth guard at every practice and every game!!Mouth guards and other types of protective gear can prevent or reduce injuries that happen during organized and recreational sports.

Mouth guards offer protection by absorbing high-impact energy from potentially traumatic blows.

Mouth Guard Care

• Keep your mouth guard clean - rinse before and after each use
• Store in a perforated container to let your mouth guard dry out
• Avoid chewing on the mouth guard
• Don't wear removable retainers with your mouth guard
• Replace your mouth guard when it shows signs of wear

Wish you could wrap your kids in bubble wrap to protect them?