Dr. Hughes at the 110th AAO Annual Session

It's no wonder folks in Alexandria and surrounding communities trust Dr. Herbert Hughes with their smiles. Besides creating healthy smiles and balanced faces that will last a lifetime, Dr. Hughes is also passionate about continuing education, and that includes attending important orthodontic-related seminars and conferences. This weekend, Dr. Hughes attended the AAO Annual Session in Washington D.C. The AAO is always an educational event that is also one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world. It's also a time for Dr. Hughes to consult with dental experts and orthodontists from around the country and stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available.

In addition to being a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Hughes is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, the current president of the Northern Virginia Orthodontic Study Club and the past president of the Alexandria Dental Society.

He is also an active member of the following organizations:

**Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics
**Diplomate of the National Board of Orthodontics
**American Association of Orthodontists
**Southern Association of Orthodontists
**Virginia Association of Orthodontists
**World Federation of Orthodontists
**Virginia Dental Association
**Northern Virginia Dental Association
**Alexandria Dental Association
**Northern Virginia Orthodontic Study Club
**International Brotherhood of Magicians
**Media (TV & radio) spokesperson for Colgate Oral Pharmaceutical

If you've got an appointment scheduled with Hughes Orthodontics in the coming weeks, we invite you to ask Dr. Hughes about his visit to the AAO Annual Session, including what he learned and how continuing education and acquisition of new technology helps us at Hughes Orthodontics treat you more effectively!

Mouth guards, orthodontics and sports with Dr. Hughes

Wouldn’t you believe it, it’s almost springtime! The spring and summer months, however, bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. Hughes for special precautions. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball and soccer. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with Hughes Orthodontics. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. Hughes will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment at no additional charge.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Hughes Orthodontics.