A teenage victim of bullying who was tormented over “Bugs Bunny” teeth has had life-changing orthodontics treatment.
Katharine Highfield, from Coulsdon, was victimised because of her teeth until an orthodontist changed her life and subequently won a national award for the amazing impact the treatment has had on the teen.
The judges of the British Orthodontic Society’s Against the Odds Award said: “She went from being called Bugs Bunny and having people talking behind her back to feeling able to audition for a role in the school play.”
The teenager is no longer afraid to smile.
She said: "Before I had braces I didn’t have the confidence to smile or even really be seen in front of people I didn’t know at school."
Orthodontist Georgina Cartwright won this year's award
Katharine, 15, thanked Georgina Cartwright, from Croydon Orthodontic Practice, for the treatment and for being “really nice and supportive”.
She said: “I have found the whole treatment has made me a much more comfortable person and I am no longer afraid of the way I look.”
Ms Cartwright was runner up for the award last year.
Georgina says: “I am delighted to win this award and so happy to have made a difference to Katharine.
“She has been a fantastic patient.”
The award will be presented to Ms Cartwright in February 2017.
Let me know your view: grainne.cuffe@london.newsquest.co.uk
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