A 15-year-old school boy has won first prize in a national competition which illustrates how orthodontic treatment can change lives. Against the Odds is an award given by the British Orthodontic Society to recognise the most inspiring account of orthodontic treatment.

James McAuliffe first visited his orthodontist a few days before his 11th birthday in early 2004 when it was discovered he would not develop four adult teeth – the upper lateral incisors and canines. After around three years of specialist treatment from Dr John Costello at Total Orthodontics in Tonbridge, Kent, James's appearance has been transformed.

He commented, 'My teeth now look absolutely amazing. It is hard to put into words what a difference my treatment has made. I am now a really confident person and always love to flash people a smile – all thanks to John.'

Before
After

James has won £750 worth of travel vouchers donated by orthodontic company SDS Ormco, while his orthodontist was awarded a trophy at the British Orthodontic Society's recent annual conference in Brighton.