In recognition of National Orthodontic Health Month, Dr. Maxwell Abraham and his team at Abraham Orthodontics are offering free orthodontic exams for families at their Chatham and Leamington offices. The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive their first orthodontic screening by age seven to help prevent the need for more complex or surgical treatments later on. “If your child is approaching the age of seven, it's time to make an appointment for an initial exam with your orthodontist,” the practice said. Dr. Abraham emphasized the importance of early detection and ongoing monitoring. “Most often, the orthodontist will identify a potential problem but recommend monitoring the child's growth and development. He or she can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while baby teeth are present and recommend starting treatment at the best possible time to minimize treatment duration, cost and complexity,” said Dr. Abraham of Abraham Orthodontics in Leamington and Chatham. The practice offers free exams for all children, with no referral required. Those who are not ready for treatment are enrolled in the Growing Smiles Program, where they receive annual checkups at no cost — regardless of insurance coverage — to monitor growth and dental development. Abraham Orthodontics recently expanded with a new Chatham location at 729 St. Clair Street. “Because every patient presents with unique orthodontic problems and growth considerations, the ‘best age’ to start treatment is different for every patient. Therefore, the best time for a consultation with your orthodontist is as soon as a possible problem is noticed,” Dr. Abraham said. Families can schedule a free orthodontic exam by calling 519-398-8101 or visiting www.AbrahamOrthodontics.com. Dr. Abraham, who founded Abraham Orthodontics in 2016, is a Leamington native and regionally recognized orthodontist known for his commitment to accessibility and community service. His Growing Smiles Program has provided more than $1 million in free orthodontic exams to families across Windsor-Essex, along with school-based initiatives promoting oral health. Follow the team online using the hashtag #AOmazing.