February Is National Children’s Dental Health Month

February Is National Children’s Dental Health Month
By Age 7, Orthodontic Evaluation Is Critical, Expert Says

(ISSUED Winter 2015)  — The American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) says that Orthodontics does a lot more than make a pretty smile. It also creates a healthier child and adult.

Orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions) that occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way a child smiles, chews, brushes and flosses —  and their self-confidence.

Dr. Andrew Chase of ARCH Orthodontics agrees: “Every child should have a check-up with an Orthodontist by age 7. “February is National Children’s Dental Health Month — a perfect time to make that first appointment. There’s no cost or obligation for the initial consultation,” says Dr. Chase.

Why is it so important to treat malocclusions early? Dr. Chase lists several reasons:

• Crowded teeth are hard to properly brush and floss — can lead to tooth decay and gum disease;
• Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping;
• Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear;
• Open bites can result in speech impediments and other issues.

“For some children, a timely evaluation will lead to significant treatment benefits initiated at the right time,” says Dr. Robert Chavez of ARCH. “For others, the principal immediate benefit is a parent’s peace of mind. Early monitoring of the child’s growth and development will lead to treatment when and if needed. By age 7, the first molars erupt establishing the back bite, and the front teeth begin to emerge. This is the best time to evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. This is when we may first see potential issues.”

Intercepting issues before they become serious helps facial symmetry, jaw growth, can reduce treatment time with braces, and can reduce the need for tooth removal and other space issues.  “Our dedication to early diagnosis is critical to prevent extensive, difficult Orthodontic treatment later on,” says Dr. Chavez.  He says Orthodontic work for girls usually doesn’t begin until ages 10-12 and for boys, ages 11-13.  Decisions about a treatment plan should involve the Dentist, parents and Orthodontist.  We treat patients from 4 to 84,” says Dr. Chavez.

Drs. Chavez and Chase estimate that in its first 40 years, the practice has helped to improve the self-confidence, appearance, and ‘bite’ of 25,000 patients. ARCH’s team adheres to SPIRE, an acronym for their core values:  Support for each other; Professionalism—Putting the patient first; Integrity–Honoring our word; Respect–Care, Concern and Compassion: for all with whom we treat and work; and Excellence –In everything we do. “We aim to make each patient’s office visit the greatest part of their day – with the goal of providing extraordinary results and amazing smiles; It’s been our mantra for 40 years,” Dr. Chavez. ARCH Orthodontics has several offices south of Boston and on Cape Cod.  To schedule a free consultation call 1-800-28- SMILE, email smilemaker@archorthodontics.com or visit http://www.sesameblogs.com/archorthodontics.

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