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A TEAM APPROACH TO ORTHODONTICS
ST. LOUIS — When Kayla S. was 8 years old she admits that she was nervous when she first stepped into the office of orthodontists Bob Good, DMD, MDS, and Ron Good, DMD, MS. “We knew that she was a little nervous and so were we,” said Cindy S., Kayla’s mother. “But we knew that orthodontic work was necessary for Kayla to have a healthy, beautiful smile.” 

“We create a patient-centered team for each of our orthodontic patients. The team includes the patient, the parents, the orthodontist and the patient’s dentist. Everyone needs to do their part for orthodontic treatment to be a success,” said Dr. Bob Good. 

Kayla’s orthodontic treatment was done in two phases. The first phase was timed to take advantage of a preferred sequence of tooth eruption, thus creating a better environment for her emerging permanent teeth. After the initial correction was made, the doctors waited until all of Kayla’s permanent teeth came in. The second phase of treatment guided those permanent teeth into their ideal positions. 

Throughout treatment Kayla visited her dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. The doctors communicated with each other and Kayla’s parents. Teamwork brought Kayla excellent results. Not only did she achieve a functional, healthy bite, Kayla also obtained a beautiful smile. “All throughout my treatment, Drs. Bob and Ron told me that they were going to give me a beautiful smile and they did just that,” said Kayla.

Kayla's story is a common one among orthodontic patients. "Teamwork is key in successful orthodontic treatment," said Raymond George, Sr., DMD, an orthodontist and president of the AAO. "Not only does orthodontic treatment create healthy, beautiful smiles, it's a good investment in long-term dental health."

Kayla’s dental future is bright. “If you give a person a smile, you give them something they have their whole life,” said Dr. Ron Good.

Orthodontists receive an additional two to three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth. To find an orthodontist near you, ask your dentist or, visit www.braces.org.

CONTACT:
Aimee DeVoll, 314-552-6744
adevoll@webershandwick.com

Pam Paladin, 314-993-1700, ext. 524
ppaladin@aaortho.org