Does Dustin From Stranger Things Really Not Have Teeth
One of the most talked-about characters from the hit Netflix series "Stranger Things" is Dustin Henderson, played by Gaten Matarazzo. Dustin has a unique appearance, with a head full of curly hair and a lisp that makes him instantly recognizable. However, one aspect of Dustin's appearance that has caused a lot of confusion among fans is his teeth.
The Truth About Dustin's Teeth
Throughout the show, Dustin is seen without his front teeth. Many fans have speculated that Matarazzo himself is missing his teeth, but this isn't actually the case. In reality, Matarazzo was born with a rare genetic disorder called cleidocranial dysplasia, which affects the development of bones and teeth. This means that he has a smaller collarbone and delayed dental development.
Because of his condition, Matarazzo had to undergo multiple surgeries to have his teeth implanted. This is why his teeth may look different from those of other teenagers his age. However, it's important to note that Matarazzo's condition doesn't define him, and he has become a vocal advocate for those who also suffer from cleidocranial dysplasia.
Dustin's Teeth in "Stranger Things"
While Matarazzo's condition is the reason why Dustin is portrayed without teeth in the show, the decision to incorporate this into his character was actually based on a real-life experience that one of the show's creators had. In an interview with Vulture, Matt Duffer revealed that he and his brother Ross were inspired by a friend who had lost his teeth in a bike accident and had to wear a retainer with fake teeth. They thought that this would be a unique characteristic for a character in the show, and thus the idea for Dustin's toothless grin was born.
Despite the fact that Dustin's teeth are a defining characteristic of his appearance, it's worth noting that they don't define his personality. Dustin is a beloved character because of his wit, his loyalty to his friends, and his bravery in the face of danger. As he says in the show, "Friends don't lie," and that's a sentiment that resonates with viewers of all ages.
The Impact of Dustin's Character
One of the reasons why "Stranger Things" has become such a cultural phenomenon is because of its memorable characters. Dustin is no exception, as his toothless grin and infectious personality have endeared him to fans around the world. However, what's even more remarkable is the impact that Matarazzo's portrayal of Dustin has had on people who also have cleidocranial dysplasia.
Matarazzo has been outspoken about his condition and has used his platform to raise awareness about it. He has also been an advocate for those who suffer from the disorder, and has worked with organizations like CCD Smiles to help provide support and resources for families affected by it.
The Importance of Representation
One of the most important things about Dustin's character is that it provides representation for people with cleidocranial dysplasia. This is a rare disorder that affects only a small percentage of the population, and as a result, many people may not be familiar with it. By portraying a character with this condition on a popular TV show, "Stranger Things" has helped to raise awareness and educate people about it.
Representation is important for all marginalized groups, whether it's people with disabilities, people of color, or members of the LGBTQ+ community. Seeing oneself reflected on screen can be a powerful experience, and it can help to combat feelings of isolation and otherness. By including characters like Dustin in their shows, creators can help to create a more inclusive and diverse media landscape.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, Dustin from "Stranger Things" does not actually have teeth because the actor who plays him, Gaten Matarazzo, has a rare genetic disorder called cleidocranial dysplasia. However, this condition does not define him, and Matarazzo has become a vocal advocate for those who also have CCD. Dustin's toothless grin has become a defining characteristic of his character, but it's his personality and his relationships with his friends that make him such a beloved figure. By including characters like Dustin in their shows, creators can help to create a more inclusive and diverse media landscape that reflects the experiences of all people.