August 1st, 2012
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!
July 26th, 2012
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.
July 19th, 2012
Our Traveling T-Shirt contest is just in time for your summer vacations!
While traveling this summer, send us a picture of yourself wearing your LAKEWOOD PARK ORTHODONTICS t-shirt. The person wearing their shirt will be entered into a drawing to win a $25 AMC movie theater gift card. Don’t have a LAKEWOOD PARK ORTHODONTICS shirt and want one? Call us at 508-319-1545 (contest is limited to patients of the practice)
Please submit photos with your full name, and where you’re pictured to Shannon at smiles@lakewoodparkortho.com. The deadline for photo entries is Friday, August 31, 201. Happy Travels!
July 17th, 2012
We want to congratulate Niamh who was our refer-a-friend contest winner! She received an iPod Touch- Enjoy!
