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EVERY CHILD SHOULD HAVE AN ORTHODONTIC EVALUATION BY AGE 7, LOCAL EXPERT SAYS

The number ‘7’ is considered to be lucky in many games. But it’s an especially important number when it comes to children’s oral health.

“Every child should have a check-up with an Orthodontist by age 7,” says Dr. Robert Chavez of ARCH Orthodontics, who has been practicing Orthodontics for 40 years in Stoughton (Mass. ), concurring with the recommendation of  the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) of which he is a lifelong member.  

“For some children, a timely evaluation will lead to significant treatment benefits initiated at the right time,” says Dr. Chavez. “For others, the principal immediate benefit is a parent’s peace of mind.”

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Why bring a child to the Orthodontist by age 7? Dr. Chavez points out that by age… More 7 children should have all of their 6-year molars and their four upper as well as lower permanent anterior teeth. Evaluating the presence and position of these teeth allows the Orthodontist to form an accurate diagnosis, treatment plan, and timetable for what care a child may need over the following 5 to 10 years. “Our dedication to early diagnosis is critical to prevent extensive, difficult Orthodontic treatment later on,” says Dr. Chavez.  ARCH offers this screening without charge.  

He adds, “We don’t typically advocate comprehensive Orthodontic treatment at age 7, but in some cases, early interceptive treatment may be appropriate.” Where needed, 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. In the past decade, people of all ages are opting for Orthodontic work. “While numbers of people at the extremes are rare we, as Specialists, have treated patents from 4 to 84,” says Dr. Chavez.

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Dr. Chavez, who since 1978 has also served as an Associate Surgeon at Boston’s Brigham & Women’s Hospital, estimates his practice has helped to improve the self-confidence, appearance, and ‘bite’ of some 20,000 patients. ARCH Orthodontics has several offices south of Boston and on Cape Cod.  His son, Dr. Andrew Chase, joined the practice 16 years ago and continues the legacy that includes the Core Values of care, concern, compassion and integrity.

“Our team treats every patient with the highest level of compassion, respect, integrity and admiration. 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 Dr. Chavez’s mantra for 40 years.

To schedule a free consultation call 1-800-28- SMILE, email smilemaker@archorthodontics.com or visit www.archorthodontics.com.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      By Stanley Hurwitz  / stanhurwitz@gmail.com / 508-269-0570  


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