Dental News - Award recognises the life-changing potential of orthodontics

British Orthodontic Society

Thu. 2. May 2019

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LONDON, UK: The British Orthodontic Society’s Against the Odds Award for 2019 has been given to Tatiana Williams, whose brave story shows the power of orthodontic treatment to change and enhance lives. Williams and Dr Adil Mannan, who was responsible for her treatment, were both recognised during the award ceremony on 9 March in London.

When she was just 4 years old, Tatiana was attacked by a dog. She was rushed to hospital for 4.5 hours of emergency surgery, followed by a further two surgeries and 127 stitches to her face—she was scarred for life. This was her earliest memory, but over time, she grew to accept the scarring. However, Tatiana continued to be bothered by her teeth. Her scratched and misaligned teeth, as well as a peg-shaped tooth, made her self-conscious and it drew attention to the lower part of her face, the part of herself that she felt most insecure about.

At 23, she resolved to do something about it. “Before my first consultation with Dr Mannan at The Orthodontic Practice at Battersea, I was apprehensive of having to wear braces for 18–24 months. Did I really want to draw more attention to my biggest insecurity? His incredible vision and reassurance allowed me to place my trust in him and accept that this was the best thing to do. The braces were fixed and, no doubt, I was more self-conscious than ever before. However, with every visit, Dr Mannan’s continued motivation and genuine passion for helping me carried me through.”

Eighteen months later, the fixed appliances were removed, a veneer was fitted and tooth whitening was undertaken. As part of a multidisciplinary approach, the veneer and whitening were carried out by a dentist. Tatiana, who has recently set up her own fashion business, continued, “I was not prepared for the overwhelming change that this experience made me feel. I was shocked and in disbelief; trying to get out of the habit of permanently using my hand to cover my mouth was the new challenge. I allowed myself to finish a fit of laughter, not stopping halfway to cover my face; I spoke to people and was no longer afraid of opening my mouth too wide; I looked in the mirror and for the first time was not disheartened by my scars.”

Mannan was delighted for Tatiana. “I have to say that she was a fantastic patient. We talked through her valid and understandable concerns and made sure she was involved at every stage of her treatment. I knew that orthodontics really could enhance Tatiana’s life and I am so pleased to see that come to fruition. It always amazes me that someone who had such early-life trauma and has had to literally live with the scars, is so well adjusted, cheerful and full of joie de vivre.”

Tatiana added, “It may seem like an insignificant change for some, but being able to see my whole face, not just fixate on the part that has caused me so much pain, is a feeling that I will always owe to Dr Mannan. It took him vision to allow me to even consider braces; without him I do not think I would have found the courage to begin this treatment. Family and friends have commented on how my overall self-esteem and confidence has greatly improved and this has no doubt all been down to the incredible work that Adil did for me—thank you!”

Anshu Sood, Chair of the Orthodontic Specialist Group Committee of the British Orthodontic Society, said: “The Against the Odds competition continues to highlight the very best of our profession and the tremendous value that orthodontics has on people’s lives. Our sincere congratulations go to Adil Mannan as he continues to work tirelessly for his patients. They are fortunate to have such a dedicated clinician who continues to impact their lives in such a positive way. A confident smile can change a person’s perception of themselves, their self-esteem and their self-image.”

The two runners-up in the competition were Juan Carlos Martinez from St Albans in Hertfordshire, who was treated by Dr Garry Mancini of Soho Orthodontic Clinic in London, and Cameron Law of Caterham in Surrey, who was treated by Dr Georgina Cartwright of Croydon Orthodontic Practice.

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