Orthodontists Offer Chance To Win Exclusive Opportunity To Observe Gorilla’s Dental Care Training

(Issued WINTER 2012-13) — One lucky person could win a rare opportunity for a behind-the-scenes viewing as a zookeeper at Zoo New England’s Franklin Park Zoo performs oral hygiene care activities for a gorilla. The contest is sponsored by the zoo and ARCH Orthodontics.

Orthodontists Dr. Robert Chavez and Dr. Andrew Chase said, “This contest has several goals: To raise awareness about the importance of good oral hygiene for all and good braces care for Orthodontic patients and to educate about protecting our environment and wildlife.”

Trainer at Franklin Park Zoo brushes Okie’s teeth (Photo by Christina Demetrio)

Dr. Andrew Chase of ARCH added, “Any patient who refers a new patient to our practice between now and March 31, 2013 is automatically entered. One patient will be selected and invited for an exciting and rare up-close opportunity to watch a training session with one of the gorillas at Franklin Park Zoo. This is another fun way to engage and educate our patients who range from 8 to 80 and beyond.” (October was National Orthodontic Health Month and February is National Children’s Dental Health Month.)

Just like humans, adult gorillas have 32 teeth, including large flat molars for chewing and large pointed canines for biting. And like people, primates can develop plaque build-up and gum disease. Oral health care is an important part of the care that the animals receive at the Zoo. In fact, some of the animals are trained to allow their teeth to be brushed.

“For people of any age whose teeth are crooked or crowded, Orthodontics can help improve their smile,” smiled Dr. Chavez. “A great smile is like a ray of sunshine.”

ARCH Orthodontics has 9 offices in, Bridgewater, Brockton, Canton, Hyannis, Hyde Park, Orleans, Randolph,  Stoughton, and Westwood, ARCH, the Official Orthodontist of Miss Massachusetts, offers          complimentary consultations: 1-800-28- SMILE, email smilemaker@archorthodontics.com or visit http://www.sesameblogs.com/archorthodontics.

 

Zoo New England manages Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and Stone Zoo in Stoneham. Both are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Zoo New England’s mission is to inspire people to protect and sustain the natural world for future generations by creating fun and engaging experiences that integrate  wildlife and conservation programs, research, and education. Visit www.zoonewengland.org

 

Tags: Contest, Franklin Park, Gorilla Dental Care