October is “National Orthodontic Health Month” – geared to spread awareness of the crucial benefits orthodontic treatment can provide to the teeth, jaws, and mouth. This ever-evolving science of orthodontia goes beyond simply “having an attractive smile” (though that is certainly a part of it!).

The team at Koch Orthodontics is proud to advance the objectives of “National Orthodontic Health Month” and enrich the smile, self-esteem, health, and life of every patient that walks through our doors.

Says Who?

While it may seem like a contemporary trend to dedicate a “thing” or hobby with it’s own national day, week or month, October has been “National Orthodontic Health Month” for almost thirty years!

The AAO, or America Association of Orthodontists, is an organization that represents 19,000 orthodontist members throughout the United States, Canada and abroad (including Drs. Keith and Ryan Koch – both members in good standing!)

In 1995, the AAO’s House of Delegates voted to pass “National Orthodontic Health Month” as an official brand awareness measure. It passed unanimously!

 

Why October?

It may simply be a coincidence that National Orthodontic Health Month falls in October, but October does kick off a three-month run of “big” Holidays (Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and Christmas) where the consumption of sweet and sticky treats is likely. (We were all children once, and know the ‘lure of candy’ starts well before October 31st!)

So, “National Orthodontic Health Month” being recognized in October presented a valuable opportunity to inform patients about which candies and foods to avoid and tips for maintaining good dental health during the season!

A Decade of Advancements

This is an exciting time in orthodontics, with continued, evolving improvements to both orthodontic appliances and technology, as well as the patient experience.

The materials used to make orthodontic appliances are stronger and sturdier than ever before, but also lightweight, with less of an “intrusive” feeling in the patient’s mouth.

Intraoral scanning and digital imaging has largely eliminated the need for taking impressions of mouths and teeth with that bitter-tasting putty (and we don’t think anyone is complaining about that!).

 

Teleconferencing proved its utility during the COVID-19 pandemic, and remains useful in communicating with patients who live long distances from the closest practice, and also for orthodontists to communicate instructions during “can’t wait” orthodontic emergencies.

Additionally, the AAO (as well as practices like Koch Orthodontics) have made great strides in communication measures to eliminate the stigma of wearing braces, particularly with adults. While many people may possess a preconceived notion that orthodontics is primarily associated with adolescents, adults and even seniors are electing to undergo treatment, for a multitude of reasons. More and more people are seeing patients in their age ranges and peer groups wearing braces! (And often, Invisalign clear aligners… though you may not be able to tell!)

What Lies Ahead…

Another advancement in the field of orthodontics that Dr. Ryan Koch is especially excited about is the new Invisalign palatal expander.

This removable palatal expander is a new auxiliary that is more comfortable than traditional palatal expanders and it also provides more freedom for our patients. This tool can be used for our adolescent patients who are in the “mixed dentition” (meaning that there are baby and adult teeth present).

This removable expander is kid-friendly and there are no food restrictions for this type of expander which means that our patients get to eat all the foods that they want with this type of appliance. Also, brushing is much easier with the ability to remove it beforehand.

Stewarding Our Industry Forward!

At Koch Orthodontics, we stand by the quality of our work… and that work is not just ensuring a healthy straight smile once appliances are removed, but that we are fostering relationships from a “team approach.” Communication with our patients and their families is crucial, as is education, and empowering you to make smart choices about your oral health from the moment we meet you, during your treatment, and in the days, weeks, months and years after your treatment has concluded.

The decision and commitment to improve ones health is one of the greatest gifts a person can give themselves. We’d love to be at your side on your journey to a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles, AND optimal oral health!

We’re currently accepting new patients! Contact us through our website or call us at (585) 243-3174. Your initial consultation is complimentary. You’ll no doubt see that at Koch Orthodontics… we keep “National Orthodontic Health Month” with us all through the year!