12/05/07

For the person who has everything, a gift certificate toward braces, either traditional or Invisalign, can be a great option, says Atoosa Nikaeen, DDS, an orthodontist in Beverly Hills, Calif.

"Parents and grandparents love to spoil children with toys during the holidays," Nikaeen said, "but giving the gift of braces can bring a smile to the recipient for years to come."

A gift certificate to an orthodontist can be a great way for parents to learn about early treatment options for their children, said Nikaeen, who specializes in early care, adult orthodontics, and Invisalign.

"Many children experience orthodontic problems that develop early in life," she said. "Taking advantage of early care options can assist in correcting problems before they become more difficult as a child ages."

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends a child be screened by a qualified orthodontist by the age of seven. Early treatment offers many advantages. It can shorten, simplify, and improve the permanence of any required treatment later in life.

Braces aren’t just for children anymore, Nikaeen added. Adults make up 20% of orthodontic patients today, and more than 40% of Nikaeen’s patients are adults.

"We have new materials and technology, which makes adult braces less noticeable," Nikaeen said. "Modern braces are more comfortable to wear and, in many cases, require fewer trips to your orthodontist and can decrease the length of treatment."

[www.prweb.com, December 2, 2007]