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Folks with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. Powell has known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Dr. Powell on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Trust us when we say Dr. Powell and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Mark Powell DDS, feel free to give us a call.

In order to reduce radiation exposure on his patients, Dr. Powell utilizes Kodak’s digital panoramic/cephalometric x-ray machine. This advanced technology reduces the radiation exposure up to 70% compared to traditional x-rays.

This cutting-edge equipment also gives Dr. Powell added information to better diagnosis the patient’s orthodontic problems. Dr. Powell and our staff treat each patient as if they are family, which is why we prioritize the overall health of the children, teenagers, and adults that visit our practice.

A complimentary x-ray is part of the initial patient examination. If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. Powell would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Dr. Powell strongly believes in keeping up with the technological advances in orthodontics. One of these technologies used during the complimentary initial examination is a computerized smile simulation. Dr. Powell utilizes a computer simulator to show the patient a before and after representation of their smile and provides a copy for them to take home.

He feels it is a great motivational tool to provide our patient with a goal. Dr. Powell has found the simulation to increase patient cooperation during treatment, resulting in shortened treatment time and a better results.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, please contact Dr. Powell to schedule your complimentary consultation today!