Cool Kids Wear Braces - Dr. Keith Hilliard

Braces today are “cool” and even “fun.” These are among the findings of a 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 report that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent report 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. Just check out our brace painter to see all the exciting options for yourself. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment, and may contribute to the success of treatment. Give Dr. Hilliard a call to schedule a consultation and see these orthodontic advancements for yourself.

Dr. Hilliard Patient Reviews

Dr. Hilliard and his staff are committed to providing superior orthodontic services to Lakeland, Florida residents. Just see what their patients have to say!Dr. Hilliard’s dental knowledge and willingness to listen and answer questions without irritation was very impressive. We also liked his approach that there is always more than one way to fix teeth. He worked with us and made sure to listen to our concerns and was willing to make the necessary changes to make my son comfortable with himself. He's wonderful and I have already referred a few of my close friends to him.
-Steve C.

The staff and Dr. Hilliard are very nice and friendly! They explain everything to you and teach you how to wear your rubber bands and so many others things! They are so great and I like coming to the orthodontist because I know I will be treated right.
-Arthur M.

I love the friendliness of the staff and Dr. Hilliard. The kindness began right from the start when I called to inquire information. We were extremely pleased. My children loved the video games in the office, great concept!
-Kim A.

It's an overall super facility!!! I fell very comfortable bringing my son to your office and feel completely positive about the treatment he will receive. WE LOVE YOU GUYS!!!
-Brenda T.

Dr. Hilliard took the time to explain what he was doing and why he felt this was the best method. I didn't feel like he was rushed and he took time with us.
-Pamela G.

The staff are friendly and give excellent service to my daughter.
-Robert S.

Smoke Screen Lakeland, FL

Everybody knows that smoking causes lung cancer, but did you also know that smokers and tobacco are susceptible to a variety of oral health problems at a faster rate than non-smokers?

It’s true! Smoking is responsible for almost 75% of gum disease in adults; and, similar to smokers, adults who smoke pipes and cigars, as well as those using smokeless tobacco, are just as susceptible to gum disease and other tobacco related health problems.

As soon as you use tobacco products, you become more likely to experience any of these oral-health problems:

• Oral cancer
• Gum disease
• Tooth loss
• Loss of bone in the jaw
• Gum recession
• Delayed/impaired healing process after oral surgery or any other treatment
• Decreased success rate of dental implant (tooth replacement) procedures
• Mouth sores
• Loss of your sense of taste and smell
• Bad breath
• Tooth and tongue stains

If you are interested in protecting your oral health we strongly recommend you quit using tobacco products! The following steps are recommended by the Surgeon General to help you quit smoking and using tobacco:

• Get ready – set a quitting date and remove all materials from your home, car and office
• Get support
• Learn new skills and behaviors
• Get medication and use it correctly
• Be prepared for relapse or difficult situations

For support, start with Keith Hilliard! We can help by recommending different options to help you quit, and above all we will support you throughout the quitting process. We are dedicated to helping you protect your oral health – and quitting smoking is significant step in the right direction.