ST. LOUIS, Missouri – Braces today are "cool" and even "fun." These are among the findings of a new nationwide survey of mothers whose children are having or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies in treatment, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s youth.

The study, conducted on behalf of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, finds 86 percent of mothers reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children.^1. Sixty-nine percent also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

"Braces have really changed since I was a child. Back then they were bulky and uncomfortable. But my kids’ braces are sleek and lightweight. My kids have adjusted to them very well," says Marie Neri, whose three children are all wearing braces.

Mothers Report Braces One of the Best Investments

While the perceptions and attitudes surrounding braces have changed over the years, the goal of orthodontic treatment remains the same – to help each patient achieve a healthy and beautiful smile and a lifetime of improved dental health. In fact, 78 percent of mothers who had braces as a child believe braces are one of the best investments their parents made for them.

"Braces really improved my smile and boosted my self-esteem. Now I’m really happy to be able to do the same for my children," said Neri.

More Comfortable and a Better Experience

A perception of orthodontic treatment is that it seems to be easier than ever and more enjoyable for today’s patients. A majority of mothers reported that while wearing braces used to be a less comfortable and a lengthier process, new technologies and orthodontic options are making their children’s experience more enjoyable. Most also described the experience of visiting the orthodontist office as fun, and 81 percent rated their child’s experience of visiting the orthodontist as positive or extremely positive. Patient-friendly offices with entertaining video games, music and/or reading materials help young patients enjoy their visits to the orthodontist’s office. And computer software that can predict the post-treatment appearance may help keep patients motivated.

Lack of Clarity on Age for First Visit with Orthodontist

While more parents are taking their children for orthodontic treatment as compared to 20 years ago, the survey found that most mothers were not aware when a child should first be seen by an orthodontist. Ninety-two percent of mothers surveyed did not know that a child’s first evaluation by an orthodontic specialist should occur no later than age seven.

"The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have their first evaluation by an orthodontist no later than age seven. Orthodontic specialists are trained to detect problems with jaw growth or teeth—even when baby teeth are present. If a check-up reveals a problem, an early visit allows the orthodontist to recommend the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time," says Dr. James E. Gjerset, a past president of the American Association of Orthodontists.

While the requirements to become an orthodontic specialist have not changed, the AAO reminds parents and patients that unique training is needed to be an orthodontist. Following completion of college requirements and graduation from a three- to-five-year dental school program, the American Dental Association (ADA) requires orthodontic specialists to have at least two academic years of advanced specialty training in orthodontics in a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the ADA. This education makes orthodontists uniquely qualified specialists in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.

About the American Association of Orthodontists

The AAO is comprised of more than 14,600 members in the United States, Canada and abroad. Founded in 1900, the AAO supports research and education leading to quality patient care and promotes increased public awareness of the need for and benefits of orthodontic treatment.

Refences:

^1. The survey, conducted by Pragmatic Research, polled a representative sample of 406 mothers aged 25 and older, and has a 95% confidence level and a margin of error of plus or minus 4.9 percent. The American Association of Orthodontists commissioned the survey in January 2003 to compare current attitudes toward orthodontic treatment to those of up to 30 years ago.

SOURCE: American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)

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