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Think the way your teeth look doesn't really matter? Survey says: think again.

Without saying a word, your mouth is sending messages to everyone you meet. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), people often make snap judgments about individuals based solely on the condition of their teeth.

"This phenomenon was documented more than 25 years ago," says Dr. Don Joondeph, a past president of the American Association of Orthodontists, referring to an eye-opening study in which photos of young smiling individuals were altered to show varying orthodontic problems and then reviewed by focus groups.

"When the focus groups looked at the altered photos they used unflattering terms such as 'unattractive' and 'aggressive' to describe the individuals," says Dr. Joondeph. "However, when groups saw photos of the same individuals with a healthy, beautiful smile, they were more likely to view the individuals as 'intelligent,' 'attractive' and 'a friend I'd like to have.'"

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Dr. Joondeph believes that the original study, which was published in 1981, is even more applicable in today's image-obsessed world. "More than ever, young people and adults want to be perceived as healthy, attractive and appealing to their peers and others."

To obtain optimal oral health and achieve a healthy, beautiful smile, the AAO recommends a team approach. In addition to seeing a dentist for regular check-ups and cleaning, patients also should see an orthodontist to ensure that an orthodontic problem is not overlooked.

For children, an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven can identify potential problems and ensure that any future treatment is timed appropriately. For adults, an orthodontic consult may reveal that cosmetic dentistry is unnecessary. "Patients may be pleasantly surprised to learn that their unattractive teeth are generally healthy, just misaligned," says Dr. Joondeph.

In regards to the study, Dr. Joondeph believes that the first thing that people notice about his young and adult patients is obvious: "The confidence and sense of self-esteem that comes with their healthy, beautiful smiles is unmistakable to anyone they meet."

For more information about orthodontics or to schedule a complimentary orthodontic consultation with Dr. Hughes, please call 508-319-1545

We would like to take this opportunity to welcome Brandy Blakeney as our new scheduling and treatment coordinator! With a background in business administration and management, Brandy knows the importance of effectively scheduling appointments and making financial arrangements that are convenient for today’s busy families. Years of experience in the hospitality industry have taught Brandy that the most important thing is for patients to feel comfortable; she strives to ensure each visit to our office is a pleasant experience. As a former orthodontic patient Brandy knows the joys that a beautiful smile can bring and is eager to help others reap the benefits of their ideal smile. Outside of the office Brandy enjoys spending time with family and friends, being active outdoors and traveling.

The Olympics have been so exciting to watch this summer! Like many of you, this summer has brought us the Olympics as well as wonderful weather to go outdoors and enjoy all the sports we love! So, it is also an appropriate time to remind you about the importance of taking a few precautions to preserve your teeth and be protected from facial injuries, whether at a practice, at a game, or simply enjoying some fun in the neighborhood. How can you play it safe?

*Wear a helmet. Helmets absorb the energy of an impact and help prevent damage to one’s head.
*Wear protective eyewear. Eyes are extremely vulnerable to damage, especially when playing sports.
*Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin. Hockey pucks, basketballs, and racquetballs can cause severe facial damage at any age.
*Wear a mouth guard when playing contact sports. Mouth guards can help prevent injury to a person’s jaw, mouth and teeth; and they are significantly less expensive than the cost to repair an injury.

Dr. Hughes wants you to have fun, but play safe. Let’s talk about the right mouth guard for you at your next visit!

Today, nearly four million children in the United States and Canada are receiving treatment from orthodontists. And while parents know that orthodontic treatment results in a healthy, beautiful smile, many don’t realize the important long-term health benefits.

1.    Why is orthodontic treatment important?
A: Straight teeth and properly aligned jaws contribute to good dental health as well as overall physical health. Orthodontic treatment can boost a person’s self-image as teeth, lips and jaws move into position and improve appearance.

2.    How do parents know if their child needs orthodontic treatment?
A: The best way is to visit an orthodontist. The AAO recommends that all children get a check-up with an orthodontist no later than age seven.

3.    What if my child still has baby teeth at age seven? Should they still see an orthodontist?
A:  Yes.  By age 7, enough permanent teeth have arrived for orthodontists to evaluate how the teeth and jaws meet, and to identify current or developing problems.

4.    How does a child’s growth affect orthodontic treatment?
A: Treatment and growth often compliment each other. In some cases, the orthodontist takes advantage of a child’s growth to guide jaws and teeth into their ideal positions.

5.    How often do you visit your orthodontist while in orthodontic treatment?
A: Typically a child will see the orthodontist every 6-12 weeks throughout the course of treatment.

6.    How do I find an orthodontist?
A: Ask your family dentist, pediatrician, family and friends or check out the AAO website for a list of providers in your area. It is important to choose an orthodontist who is a member of the AAO.  Orthodontists receive an additional two to three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth.  Only those with this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists,” and only orthodontists may be members of the AAO.

7.    What is the average cost of orthodontic treatment?
A: Fees will vary, depending on the treatment needed.  Most orthodontists offer convenient payment plans, making treatment more affordable than ever.  Most orthodontists will work with you to find a plan that fits your family budget.  In addition, many patients have dental insurance that includes orthodontic benefits.