AN IMPROVED SMILE: A PRICELESS MOTHER’S DAY GIFT THAT WILL GIVE FOR A LIFETIME

Dr. Robert Chavez of ARCH Orthodontics has a novel idea: “I suggest giving an improved smile. I can think of no gift that’s more thoughtful or unique, or that will bring a new level of happiness and self-confidence — on Mother’s Day and all the days to follow.” He says Moms and grandmothers might even decide to ‘do something for themselves.’ “It’s never too late to give the gift of a beautiful smile.”

Speaking of Mother’s Day, in his practice Dr. Chavez points to the mother of two teens who, after her sons completed their Orthodontic treatment, said, “Now it’s my turn!” After two years with invisible aligners, her headaches had disappeared from a misaligned jaw, her teeth were lined up properly for a better ‘bite,’ she felt better about herself, she thought she looked better and had a more open smile.

Another mother in her 40s watched her daughter’s misaligned mouth transformed into a perfect smile. “I learned it’s never too late to improve your smile, and that having a great smile not only makes you feel better about yourself, but it changes the way people look at you and listen to what you say. I commend Dr. Chavez and Chase for the ‘medical miracle’ they performed on me.”

Dr. Chavez and his son, Dr. Andrew Chase, who operate 9 ARCH Orthodontic offices, have seen a shift in patient demographics echoing figures of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), of which they are long-time members: From 1994 to 2010, the number of Americans 18 and older getting braces or another teeth-straightening treatment jumped 58%, to 1.1 million. Adults account for about 22% of Orthodontic patients, up from 17% in 1994. Most ARCH patients are between 10 and 16, though their oldest patient is 82.

Dr. Chase says, “A lot of people in their 30s, 40s, 50s or older have an outdated idea of what Orthodontics is. We believe treatment improves not just looks, but outlooks.” He refers to a survey by the National Institute of Dental Research that shows, with longer life expectancies and a greater awareness, teeth can last a lifetime, adults are taking better care of their teeth. We talk about the importance of removing plaque to help teeth last a lifetime, and how Orthodontic treatment makes plaque removal easier because misalignment and space issues are eliminated.”

The wide variety of appliances and their near-invisibility make Orthodontic treatment an attractive option for adults. Dr. Chavez says, “We’re shifting away from being a decision about an appliance or a technology, but rather being a personal and health issue. We show prospective patients how good they’re going to look and how it can improve self-confidence, maybe even aid their career.” Another consideration: Orthodontics may be more affordable thanks to a variety of payment options and dental insurance plans have Orthodontic benefits. Also, many adult patients are in higher earning years.

“Orthodontists, who train 2 – 3 years beyond traditional dental school, must be knowledgeable about adults’ concerns and potential special needs,” says Dr. Chase. “If an adult patient has gum disease, or needs fillings or other restorations, the Orthodontist will work with the patient’s Dentist and other specialists to help the patient achieve optimal dental health.”

Each mother who begins Orthodontic treatment by Mother’s Day will receive a complimentary teeth whitening at the end of the treatment period.

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