Shown (photo #1) dispensing a healthy dose of information are (left to right ) Orthodontist Dr. Andrew Chase; Lucy Cobb, Office Manager, and Belkys Brady and Sarah Lochiato, Orthodontic Assistants. In Photo #2, families talk to the ARCH staff.

Palatal expansion is usually not painful, but you may feel some minor discomfort. It’ll take a little time for you to get used to your appliance, so you may experience difficulty speaking and swallowing for the first day or two.

Adjusting your appliance as directed will ensure you keep on schedule with the rest of your orthodontic treatment plan. It takes about a few weeks to achieve the desired amount of expansion, after which you’ll keep wearing your expander for about six months, giving time for the new bone to form and stabilize. Our team at ARCH Orthodontics will give you detailed instructions about how to adjust your appliance and can answer any questions you may have about your palatal expander.

1. There are 5 places to brush: (1) where the teeth meet the gum lines, in toward the gums; (2) under the wire; (3) on top of the wire; (4) on top of the tooth,: (5) in back of the tooth.

2. There are 5 times during the day to brush: after breakfast, after lunch or after school, after dinner, after snacks, and before bed.

3. At the end of the day, spend an additional 5 minutes to floss and use fluoride rinse.

Dr. Chavez, who has been practicing for 38 years and says he’s improved the smiles of thousands of people of all ages, says, “Sometimes it can be a challenge to convince younger patients to take special care when wearing braces for 1 – 2 years.” He says the best ages for Orthodontic treatment for girls is usually 10-15 and for boys, it’s ages 11-16.

Dr. Chase, who has been practicing since 1998, says, “From the very first appointment, we explain how braces allow us to move teeth so they will look better and work (chew) more effectively. It’s a gradual process you can’t speed up. The message is repeated at every appointment: Their teeth and braces need special attention to aid treatment and improve the final result.” A list of oral hygiene habits and foods to avoid are listed on the website www.archorthodontics.com.

In addition to reminders about oral hygiene during office visits, via Facebook and Twitter, and the ‘Rule of 5’s’ reminder cards, ARCH Orthodontics enrolls patients in an OrthoRewards Program in which patients earn points for regular brushing and not breaking braces, for good report cards, community service, and for wearing their ARCH t-shirts to appointments. Points can be exchanged for prizes. The doctors remind patients to continue regular dental checkups and cleanings throughout Orthodontic treatment.

Among other survey results compiled from 570 patient respondents:
• 90% said their appointment experience met or exceeded expectations. (“an excellent, friendly staff”)
• 95% said the way they were treated upon arrival met or exceeded expectations. (“Your staff is personable, professional, friendly… immediately makes you feel comfortable”)
• 90% said they were seen within a reasonable time after arrival.
• 92% said the staff answered questions well about current conditions and any recommended treatment.

The survey was conducted by an independent third-party research group. Responses are reviewed and addressed regularly at staff meetings conducted by Dr. Chavez and his son Dr. Andrew Chase who joined ARCH in 1998.

Dr. Chase and Dr. Chavez, who have built ARCH into 9 offices, say a primary goal is “to make our patients’ visits the greatest part of their day.” Patients range in age from 4 to 80.

ARCH works hard to attract and retain skilled staff. It sponsors regular in-service training sessions such as an American Heart Association-accredited CPR training class with the new Pet heart defibrillator, OSHA training class, and Advanced Sterilization Techniques for the Modern Orthodontic office. ARCH brought 7 staff members to a practice software conference in New Orleans.

Dr. Chase says, “We never assume we know what patients value most, or that we know what areas of the practice need more attention. An objective survey helps us provide a systematic, patient-focused approach so patients will continue to refer friends and relatives to us.” Dr. Chavez adds, “Our mission includes being ‘the Orthodontic office of choice in the communities we serve’ and being ‘the best Orthodontic group practice.’ Making patients our primary focus is how one builds a practice, maintains loyalty, and thrives, even in a challenging economy.”

The practice offers courtesy discounts to members of the armed forces and their families, and to municipal workers and their families in the towns where ARCH has offices. ARCH is the Official Orthodontist of Miss Massachusetts and its Scholarship Foundation.

ARCH Orthodontics has offices in Bridgewater, Brockton, Canton, Hyde Park, Randolph, Stoughton and Westwood, and two new offices on Cape Cod in Hyannis and Orleans. Arch offers complimentary initial consultation including digital photos and panoral x-rays. For more info: www.archorthodontics.com / 1-800-28-SMILE / email smilemaker@archorthodontics.com

Plus, because it’s so convenient, Invisalign won’t interfere with your daily life.
• Invisalign aligners are clear, discrete and effective at moving your teeth into their ideal positions.
• You don’t need to change your eating habits, because your aligners can be easily removed.
• Invisalign aligners are made of comfortable, smooth plastic, so you don’t have to worry about taking care of metal brackets.
• Invisalign aligners make daily oral hygiene easier, reducing the risk of possible problems.
• Invisalign treatment is covered by most insurance providers, just like traditional braces.

A straight smile makes you look great, but it also can help you keep the rest of your mouth healthy. Correctly aligned teeth can decrease health issues that can be caused by an improper bite, speech or chewing difficulties, jaw problems, and increased wear on the tooth enamel.

Invisalign can be used by teens and adults, so whether you want to improve your own smile or need more information about your teen’s orthodontic options, contact our office near you to learn more.

ARCH Orthodontics’ Dr. Chase and Dr. Chavez devised a treatment plan: They removed a few teeth, shifted others, and used clear, ceramic braces to eliminate the overbite. Two years later, Diane describes the benefits: “I have more confidence so I present better. People aren’t looking at my overbite; they’re listening to the words. And as a teacher wearing braces, I often formed a faster and deeper bond with my students with braces, and helped students prepare when they were prescribed braces.”

There were a few surprise benefits, too: Diane can wear lipstick more comfortably now, and she is no longer a ‘mouth breather.’ “My sleep apnea is gone and other sleep-related issues have cleared up, including chronic fatigue. And my fibromyalgia is better. I’m more alert all day long.”

Diane says, “I learned that it’s never too late to improve your smile. I learned treatment can take longer when you’re older, but it’s definitely worth it. And I learned that having a great smile not only makes you feel better about yourself, but it changes the way people look at and listen to what you say. I commend Dr. Chavez and Chase for the ‘medical miracle’ they performed on me.”

Orthodontic treatment for adults is becoming more common. Since 1996, the number of adults getting braces has climbed 24 percent. ARCH patients range in age from 4 – 80. A well-balanced mouth and a healthy bite prevent uneven wear to teeth and reduces the risk of gum disease. It also improves your appearance. So if you have crowded or crooked teeth, too much space or a misaligned jaw, Orthodontic treatment may be just what the Doctor ordered. Latest technologies and modalities can mean briefer treatment periods, no ‘metal mouth,’ and more comfort during treatment.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, contact us for a complimentary consultation: www.archorthodontics.com / 1 (800) 28-SMILE. We have 9 convenient offices including new locations on Cape Cod in Hyannis and Orleans.

Speaking of Mother’s Day, in his practice Dr. Chavez points to the mother of two teens who, after her sons completed their Orthodontic treatment, said, “Now it’s my turn!” After two years with invisible aligners, her headaches had disappeared from a misaligned jaw, her teeth were lined up properly for a better ‘bite,’ she felt better about herself, she thought she looked better and had a more open smile.

Another mother in her 40s watched her daughter’s misaligned mouth transformed into a perfect smile. “I learned it’s never too late to improve your smile, and that having a great smile not only makes you feel better about yourself, but it changes the way people look at you and listen to what you say. I commend Dr. Chavez and Chase for the ‘medical miracle’ they performed on me.”

Dr. Chavez and his son, Dr. Andrew Chase, who operate 9 ARCH Orthodontic offices, have seen a shift in patient demographics echoing figures of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), of which they are long-time members: From 1994 to 2010, the number of Americans 18 and older getting braces or another teeth-straightening treatment jumped 58%, to 1.1 million. Adults account for about 22% of Orthodontic patients, up from 17% in 1994. Most ARCH patients are between 10 and 16, though their oldest patient is 82.

Dr. Chase says, “A lot of people in their 30s, 40s, 50s or older have an outdated idea of what Orthodontics is. We believe treatment improves not just looks, but outlooks.” He refers to a survey by the National Institute of Dental Research that shows, with longer life expectancies and a greater awareness, teeth can last a lifetime, adults are taking better care of their teeth. We talk about the importance of removing plaque to help teeth last a lifetime, and how Orthodontic treatment makes plaque removal easier because misalignment and space issues are eliminated.”

The wide variety of appliances and their near-invisibility make Orthodontic treatment an attractive option for adults. Dr. Chavez says, “We’re shifting away from being a decision about an appliance or a technology, but rather being a personal and health issue. We show prospective patients how good they’re going to look and how it can improve self-confidence, maybe even aid their career.” Another consideration: Orthodontics may be more affordable thanks to a variety of payment options and dental insurance plans have Orthodontic benefits. Also, many adult patients are in higher earning years.

“Orthodontists, who train 2 – 3 years beyond traditional dental school, must be knowledgeable about adults’ concerns and potential special needs,” says Dr. Chase. “If an adult patient has gum disease, or needs fillings or other restorations, the Orthodontist will work with the patient’s Dentist and other specialists to help the patient achieve optimal dental health.”

Each mother who begins Orthodontic treatment by Mother’s Day will receive a complimentary teeth whitening at the end of the treatment period.

Early treatment may be the foundation, but what good is a strong foundation if the building placed on it is crooked? The second phase of treatment, usually including a full set of braces, begins when all permanent teeth have erupted and is necessary in order for your child to achieve an ideal bite and perfectly straight teeth.

Absolutely not! Orthodontic treatment for adults is becoming more and more common. In fact, the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! More adults than ever are realizing that orthodontic treatment is not just for kids, and can help improve the aesthetics and health of a smile of any age! In a society where appearance matters and can help make the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing wisely to invest in orthodontic treatment.

Some of the most common reasons our adult patients come to us considering orthodontic treatment include:

• Teeth that are crowded or spaced apart, sometimes as a result of tooth decay or gum disease
• Pain or pressure from crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw
• A bad bite or malocclusion, causing teeth to fit together incorrectly

Most of all though, adult patients come to our office seeking a healthier mouth and a more confident smile! Orthodontic treatment at our office can be successful at any age, and adults especially can appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

As an adult patient, we recognize that you have different needs than our younger patients, and we will work with you to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you visit ARCH Orthodontics for a consultation. We understand you have a busy schedule, and will work with you to find a time that is convenient for you. Please visit our website or give our office a call to schedule your appointment today!

Orthodontic Treatment Isn’t Just for Kids

Diane, a bubbly 41 year-old woman who often spoke before groups and sang in a choir, was so self-conscious about her overbite, she held a hand to her mouth when she spoke or laughed – or spoke and laughed less often!

ARCH Orthodontics’ Dr. Chase and Dr. Chavez devised a treatment plan: They removed a few teeth, shifted others, and used clear, ceramic braces to eliminate the overbite. Two years later, Diane describes the benefits: “I have more confidence so I present better. People aren’t looking at my overbite; they’re listening to the words. And as a teacher wearing braces, I often formed a faster and deeper bond with my students with braces, and helped students prepare when they were prescribed braces.”

There were a few surprise benefits, too: Diane can wear lipstick more comfortably now, and she is no longer a ‘mouth breather.’ “My sleep apnea is gone and other sleep-related issues have cleared up, including chronic fatigue. And my fibromyalgia is better. I’m more alert all day long.”

Diane says, “I learned that it’s never too late to improve your smile. I learned treatment can take longer when you’re older, but it’s definitely worth it. And I learned that having a great smile not only makes you feel better about yourself, but it changes the way people look at and listen to what you say. I commend Dr. Chavez and Chase for the ‘medical miracle’ they performed on me.”

Orthodontic treatment for adults is becoming more common. Since 1996, the number of adults getting braces has climbed 24 percent. ARCH patients range in age from 4 – 80. A well-balanced mouth and a healthy bite prevent uneven wear to teeth and reduces the risk of gum disease. It also improves your appearance. So if you have crowded or crooked teeth, too much space or a misaligned jaw, Orthodontic treatment may be just what the Doctor ordered. Latest technologies and modalities can mean briefer treatment periods, no ‘metal mouth,’ and more comfort during treatment.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, contact us for a complimentary consultation: www.archorthodontics.com / 1 (800) 28-SMILE. We have 9 convenient offices including new locations on Cape Cod in Hyannis and Orleans.