[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 18 (Tuesday, January 30, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E212]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING ORTHODONTISTS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. WM. LACY CLAY

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 30, 2007

  Mr. CLAY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Orthodontists 
everywhere by introducing a Resolution to establish a National 
Orthodontic Health Month. Since the early 1900s, the specialty of 
orthodontics has been a growing part of our Nation's dental health 
system. This resolution expresses the sense of Congress that U.S. 
citizens should observe a National Orthodontic Health Month to 
recognize the advancing art and science of orthodontics. In addition, 
this Resolution aims to encourage Americans to learn more about the 
benefit of quality orthodontic care.
  Over 5 million citizens of all ages are currently undergoing 
orthodontic treatment. An attractive smile contributes to self-esteem 
and self-image, improving a person's self-confidence and contributing 
to both social and career success. An attractive smile simply makes 
people more comfortable and more willing to open up to the world around 
them.
  I have been impressed by the impact that orthodontists have not only 
on their patients, but also the communities in which they serve. 
Orthodontists are truly dental specialists, undergoing years of 
training to learn how to safely and effectively correct misaligned jaws 
and teeth. In addition, orthodontists donate over 62 million dollars 
worth of pro-bono dental services each year.
  The American Association of Orthodontists is the leading voice for 
orthodontists in this country. The organization represents almost 95 
percent of American orthodontists and is dedicated to maintaining the 
high quality of orthodontic care and promoting advances in orthodontic 
treatment and technology. I am proud that the American Association of 
Orthodontists is headquartered within my district in St. Louis, 
Missouri and I wholeheartedly support efforts to publicize the benefits 
of orthodontic treatment and the practice of orthodontics.
  Madam Speaker, it is with great privilege that I recognize 
orthodontists today before Congress and I urge my colleagues to join me 
in working to establish a National Orthodontic Health Month. I myself 
can attest to the positive benefits of orthodontic care, as I have 
become one of the millions of adults who use braces to improve my oral 
health. By establishing a National Orthodontic Health Month we are 
taking a big first step towards educating people about the importance 
of orthodontic care as part of their overall oral health.

                          ____________________