Image Orthodontics and Skyway Pediatric Dentistry Encourage Children to Follow Dental Health Tips During National Children's Dental Health Month

Online, March 26, 2014 (Newswire.com) - The doctors and staff of Image Orthodontics and Skyway Pediatric Dentistry visited several area schools to encourage children to practice excellent oral health and receive a free orthodontic consultation during National Children's Dental Health Month in February.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends children receive their first orthodontic evaluation no later than age 7. Early orthodontic treatment guides bone and jaw growth and development and prevents serious orthodontic problems that may occur later. Treatment may not be immediately necessary, but future orthodontic problems from your child's orthodontic evaluation can be anticipated.

"Orthodontics is more than just cosmetic treatment," Dr. Thomas Iverson of Image Orthodontics said. "It not only improves smile aesthetics but also corrects malocclusions, or bad bites, which affect the way children chew and clean their teeth. Orthodontic problems left untreated put children at heightened risk for tooth decay, bone or gum loss and jaw joint pain, and early detection is the most effective way to prevent and correct orthodontic issues."

Dr. Iverson along with Dr. Levi Palmer of Skyway Pediatric Dentistry strongly encourage parents to help children establish good oral habits at a young age to assure that their teeth will remain healthy for all their lives. Tooth decay remains one of the most common diseases of childhood - five times more common than asthma, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Untreated tooth decay can submit children to persistent pain, an inability to eat comfortably or chew well, and discolored or damaged teeth. Difficulty cleaning teeth caused by orthodontic problems is a major source of tooth decay in children and should be treated at a young age for best results.

Children's Dental Health Quick Tips:

• Brush teeth twice a day

• Floss daily to remove food debris between teeth that brushing cannot reach

• Eat healthy and nutritious foods and limit the intake of sugary carbonated beverages

• Visit a dentist and orthodontist for regular checkups and cleanings

• Ask your child's doctor about fluoride treatments and dental sealants for the prevention of tooth decay and cavities

• Visit an orthodontist by age 7 for your child's initial orthodontic evaluation

To learn more about orthodontics, pediatric dentistry and proper oral hygiene for children or to schedule your child's free consultation, call Image Orthodontics and Skyway Pediatric Dentistry at (530) 891-3601.