October Is National Orthodontic Health Month

“October is National Orthodontic Health Month”– the perfect opportunity to remind everyone of the positive impact Orthodontic care can have,  and to remind people of all ages to eat healthier and care for their teeth and gums all year long,” says Dr. Andrew Chase of ARCH Orthodontics.

“Every child should have a check-up with an Orthodontist by age 7,” he says, concurring with the recommendation of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) of which he is a long-time member. “For some children, a timely evaluation will lead to significant treatment benefits initiated at the right time. For others, the principal immediate benefit is a parent’s peace of mind.”

Dr. Chase says Orthodontics can improve how you look and also have a positive impact on your health. If you have crowded teeth, braces can improve your ability to keep everything clean, reduce periodontal problems and tooth wear. If you experience pain or discomfort from TMJ, Orthodontics can offer long-term relief. It can also have a positive impact on your confidence.

While the traditional Orthodontic patient is in the 10 – 16 age range, Dr. Chase says about 30% of today’s patients are adults who want to improve their looks and self-confidence. “Aligned, well-spaced teeth make it easier to brush and floss correctly, and present a great image.” Studies show that a great smile can help you socially and professionally. Based on patient experience and national surveys, Dr. Chase says having a great smile can add $1.5 million or more to your lifelong earnings!

“This is also the ideal time to remind anyone with braces of our ‘Rule of 5’s,’ says ARCH founder Dr. Robert Chavez.  His braces care checklist consists of these rules, all associated with the number ‘5’:

(1)   Brush 5 times throughout the day – after breakfast, lunch or after school; after supper; after snacks and before bed.

(2)    Each time you brush, for each tooth on 5 surfaces, brush in toward the gums, under the wire, on top of the wire, on top of the tooth, and in back of the tooth.

(3)    At the end of the day, spend 5 full minutes to brush, floss and fluoride rinse.

Dr. Chase estimates that the ARCH team has treated about 25,000 patients of all ages since his father, Dr. Chavez, opened his first office in Stoughton 41 years ago. Today ARCH operates 9 offices between Boston and Orleans on Cape Cod.

For the fifth year, ARCH Orthodontics is the Official Orthodontist of Miss Massachusetts and its Scholarship Foundation. ARCH offers free initial consultation (a $500 value) and no-interest financing.