Our Blog
Congratulations to Dr. Travis Hicks!
November 10th, 2015
Wake Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry would like you to join us in congratulating Dr. Travis Hicks on passing the ABPD board exams.
What is a Diplomate of the ABPD?
A Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry is a pediatric dentist whose credentials have been verified, who has successfully completed voluntary examinations, and who demonstrates specialized knowledge and skill. A Diplomate is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care through a voluntary commitment to lifelong learning. The ABPD is the only certifying board in the specialty of pediatric dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association and sponsored by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Benefits to Becoming a Diplomate of the ABPD
There are many benefits to becoming a diplomate of the ABPD. Most importantly, providing high quality oral healthcare to all children and maximizing patient outcomes through continuous participation in the certification process. Passing the ABPD board exams shows a commitment to lifelong learning. It also,
- Leads to high-quality oral health care for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health care needs.
- Provides assurance to the public that a board certified pediatric dentist has successfully completed accredited specialty training.
About Dr. Travis Hicks
As a pediatric dentist, I have the opportunity to make an early impact on a child’s perception of the dentist and oral health. I am passionate about giving children a dental home, a place where they and their parents can trust in the quality of care they receive. I am excited every time I see a child for their first dental visit. It is an opportunity to develop a bond with that patient and their family that will hopefully last for many years to come. As one of the newest dentists in the practice, I look forward to working with not only a great group of pediatric dentists and orthodontists, but also an amazing staff in a thriving community like Raleigh.
Congratulations Dr. Hicks! Wake Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry is proud of your latest accomplishment!
The Benefits of Early Intervention and Treatment
September 10th, 2015
If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to see the orthodontist. However, the American Association of Orthodontist recommends that your child see an orthodontist by the age of 7. At this age, an orthodontist can spot subtle issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present. Plus, many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they are found early.
Early Intervention
Early evaluation means early detection of problems, and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Orthodontic intervention monitors growth and development, reducing serious problems later. When early orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully observe and track growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal for the patient.
Signs of Orthodontic Problems
At Wake Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, we look for signs which indicate possible bite problems and early orthodontic treatment may be needed. Orthodontic problems are not always straightforward. Even teeth that look straight may be hiding problems. Here are some signs that might indicate the need for orthodontic attention.
- Excess spaces between teeth
- Overbite, underbite, crossbite
- Extra teeth
- Missing teeth
- Severely protruding or buck teeth
- Severely crowded teeth
- Narrow upper or lower jaw
Benefits of Early Treatment:
There are many benefits to early orthodontic treatment. Some of the most direct results of early treatment include:
- Creating space for crowded, erupting permanent teeth
- Creating facial symmetry by influencing jaw growth
- Decreasing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Preserving space for unerupted teeth
- Reducing the need for permanent tooth removal
- Reducing treatment time with braces
- Improve self-esteem & increase self-confidence
If your child is between the ages of seven and eight and shows signs of needing orthodontic care, or if you have been directed by your dentist to visit the orthodontist, please contact our practice and schedule an appointment (919) 719-1780. However, you don’t need a referral from a dentist to see an orthodontist. Our team at Wake Orthodontics will provide your child with an initial exam, and discuss with you the best steps to take toward caring for your child’s smile.
In Memory of Dr. Walter Parrish
September 8th, 2015
It is with a heavy heart that we must share the sad news of the passing of a great man.
Dr. Walter Parrish is no longer with us, though his legacy will live on for ages, both in the mission of Wake Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry and in the hearts and souls of all the people who have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Parrish through the years.
We were so lucky to have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Parrish for over 25 years, and we will cherish all our memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
(Dr. Parrish is pictured on the top right hand side, behind Dr. Macon)
Read Dr. Parrish’s obituary here.
Dr. Macon’s Travels to Ukraine to Provide Dental Care for Community in Need
June 15th, 2015
Recently, Dr. Macon traveled to Ukraine, where he had some amazing and memorable experiences. The purpose of the trip was to provide dental services to the underserved community of the Roma Gypsy Village in the town of Dobron, located near the border of Ukraine and Hungary. It was a trip that Dr. Macon and his travel companions will not soon forget.
Eleven people from Trinity Baptist Church went on the mission trip, including Dr. Macon, and one of his assistants, Jenny. In addition to a dentist, the group included nurses and an optometric assistant, which allowed the group to provide a wide variety of services to the community.
During the five days in Dobron, Dr. Macon provided extractions to over 70 adults and children. Other volunteers provided oral health education, dental cleanings, medical screenings, and eye exams. All of these services were provided from inside of a local church.
Dr. Macon felt honored to have had the privilege to help the beautiful people of this community and to “show others the love of Christ by sharing the gifts He has given me.”
The most memorable part of the trip for Dr. Macon was “Seeing the gratitude from those who had been in pain for many years.” One of the men in the community who was the music minister of the local church was in so much pain that it was keeping him awake at night and prevented him from singing in church. Thanks to the services Dr. Macon provided, his is able to live pain-free and resume his passion for singing. Jenny recalls another woman who approached Dr. Macon on the last day of the trip. “She had been in pain for seven years. She prayed to God asking that He help her, and she said that Dr. Macon was like an angel sent to her. She thanked him so much for coming and helping take her pain away.”
Being able to use his gift to make a difference in someone’s life is incredibly rewarding for Dr. Macon. He, Jenny, and the rest of the group had an amazing time on the trip. The people of Dobron have left a lasting impression on their hearts!
View more pictures of the trip:
