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Bullying Bites

You can make a positive impact in your community this October by participating in the AAO’s anti-bullying campaign, #bullyingbites, and encouraging young people to join the effort to end bullying.  

Take a Bite Out of Bullying

For the sixth consecutive year, the AAO, in partnership with Stand for the Silent, will recognize National Bullying Prevention Month, which coincides with National Orthodontic Health Month. Let’s work together to prevent bullying and promote a safe and healthy environment. This October, the AAO challenges you to come together in the fight against bullying. Orthodontists worldwide are taking a stand and encouraging their patients to do the same because we can all agree, #bullyingbites. 

If you are an AAO member, click here for additional #bullyingbites information. 

Bullying Statistics

#bullyingbites
Types of Bullying
Cyber, Physical, Prejudicial, Relational Aggression, Verbal (Source: verywellfamily.com)
1 in 5
Students ages 12-18 experience bullying nationwide (Source: stopbullying.gov)
160,000 Children
Miss school every day due to fear of an attack or intimidation by another student (Source: cdc.gov)

Ways to Get Involved

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Spread the Word

Spread the anti-bullying message by sharing social media posts. Let’s amplify this important message together using #bullybites.

Icon used for the Orthodontist vs. Dentist page.
Take the Pledge

Download and sign a pledge card saying you will help put a stop to bullying.

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Go Orange

Wear orange on Wednesday, October 16, for Unity Day, the signature event of National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month.

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Give Back

Those interested in related charitable efforts may donate to Stand for the Silent or serve as a volunteer with the AAO Foundation Gifted Smiles program. 

Bring Laughter and Smiles to Your Community

In the past 10 years, AAO members have offered free or discounted orthodontic care to nearly 1,000 families through the Gifted Smiles program, providing over $5 million in treatment. Interested in learning how to unlock your smile’s potential?