Sheridan Road: What sets Forest Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry apart from other dental practices on the North Shore?

Dr. Derek Bock: We are a two-doctor, husband-and-wife specialty dental practice. I am a board-certified orthodontist with an experienced progressive practice which utilizes all the current advances in the field that lead to reduced orthodontic treatment times, patient discomfort, and orthodontic appliance visibility. I treat children, adolescents, and adults. My wife (Dr. Anokhi) is a board-certified pediatric dentist who provides comprehensive dental care for children, starting at 12 months of age, in a warm,  comfortable, nurturing environment. Our practice philosophy is to provide exceptional orthodontic and pediatric dental care in an environment that helps to put our patients and their parents at ease. Our team approach to dentistry helps to educate and empower the patients in our practice, so they can grow up to have a positive attitude toward oral health.

SR: What do patients like most about your practice?

DB: Patients remark that they feel like they’re at home in our practice, in both atmosphere and open communication. We offer a spa-like setting, with HD televisions, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a beverage center serving up gourmet coffee, tea, and hot chocolate to make your reception room experience inviting. We have a game room for the kids that houses three Xbox 360 video games to keep them busy while you relax. We have an open-door policy in our practice that allows you to come back in the treatment areas to converse with either doctor or their highly trained staff members throughout their treatment. There is nothing to hide in this practice, including the ear-to-ear grins of our existing patients. It’s a major benefit when your child is in orthodontic treatment to have their pediatric dentist ‘in house’ to monitor your child’s brushing habits strictly, as well as schedule their cleaning appointments on the same day as their adjustment visits.

SR: At what age should parents bring their kids in for an initial dental and orthodontic consultation?

DB: The AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) recommends that a child be seen for their first orthodontic visit for evaluation at age 7. These orthodontic new patient consultation and observation appointments are free of charge and allow me to evaluate the development of the permanent teeth and assess any developing orthodontic issues. The AAP (American Association of Pediatrics) recommends that a child see a dentist after their first birthday or six months after the eruption of their first tooth. It’s important to establish a dental home where they can feel comfortable for years to come.

SR: What’s the average age that most of your young patients start orthodontic treatment?

DB: About 70 percent of the kids that I see for an orthodontic consultation start comprehensive orthodontic treatment between the ages of 11 and 13. With the advent of modern orthodontic techniques and appliances, I can achieve amazing results in mild to moderately complex cases in a shortened treatment time (18–26 months). The other 30 percent of the kids that I see are candidates for two phases of orthodontic treatment.

SR: What are the invisible orthodontic options for children and adults in your practice?

DB: Incognito Hidden Braces: Placed on the back side of the teeth, Incognito Orthodontic Braces are completely hidden from view. Incognito Orthodontic Braces are also 100 percent customized to meet the unique orthodontic prescription of every patient.

Damon Clear- Virtually invisible, Damon Clear has advantages over traditional braces and aligners. Damon Clear is part of the innovative Damon System, which combines tieless braces with high-technology arch wires that are clinically proven to move teeth fast and comfortably.

Invisalign- These braces take a modern approach to straightening teeth with a set of aligners custom-made to your mouth. The aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable, and virtually invisible plastic that you wear over your teeth. The aligners gradually shift your teeth into place and are easily removed at meal times or for an evening out.