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National Orthodontic Health Month

Don't forget to take care of your pearly whites this National Orthodontic Health Month - let's keep those smiles straight and healthy!

Thursday
1–31
October 2026
Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team
Have an update or spot an error?
YEARLY DATEAll of October
OBSERVED INUnited States
CATEGORYHealth
SUBCATEGORYDental
INTRO

Introduction

Get ready to flash those perfectly straight and beautiful smiles because October is National Orthodontic Health Month! This month-long celebration aims to raise awareness about the importance of orthodontic health and maintaining a healthy, happy smile. Did you know that orthodontics has been around since ancient times? The first recorded attempts at straightening teeth date back to the ancient Egyptians and Greeks. Today, we have advanced technology and techniques that make getting braces or other orthodontic treatments easier and more effective than ever before. So let's celebrate this month by taking care of our pearly whites and appreciating all the amazing work that orthodontists do for us.

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TIMELINE

National Orthodontic Health Month Timeline

Orthodontics Emerges

During the 1800s, orthodontics started to emerge as a separate dental specialty. Dentists started experimenting with appliances to move teeth.

First Orthodontic Society

The American Society of Orthodontia, the first orthodontic organization, was established.

Orthodontic Certification

The American Board of Orthodontics, the first specialty board in dentistry, was established to certify orthodontists.

Braces Evolution

In the 1970s, orthodontic braces became more comfortable and less noticeable due to improvements in technology and materials.

Invisalign Introduced

Invisalign, a type of clear and removable braces, was introduced, providing an alternative to traditional fixed braces.

National Orthodontic Health Month

The American Association of Orthodontists designated October as National Orthodontic Health Month to promote awareness about the importance of orthodontic health.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month

EDITOR'S PICK

Start a "Smile Challenge"

Encourage your friends and family to take care of their orthodontic health by starting a "Smile Challenge". Set a goal for everyone to floss and brush their teeth twice a day for the entire month and see who can stick to it!

HOST

Host a braces-friendly potluck

Gather your friends with braces and have a potluck with foods that are easy on braces, like soft pasta dishes or mashed potatoes. This is a great way to celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month while also enjoying some delicious food.

CREATE

Create a gratitude board for your orthodontist

Show your appreciation for your orthodontist by creating a gratitude board in their office. Encourage other patients to write notes of thanks and display them on the board throughout the month.

ORGANIZE

Organize a "Braces Care" workshop

Partner with your local orthodontist to organize a workshop on proper braces care. This is a great way to educate others on the importance of taking care of their orthodontic health and to celebrate National Orthodontic Health Month.

CREATE

Create a social media challenge

Spread awareness about National Orthodontic Health Month by creating a social media challenge. Encourage people to share their best brace-face selfies or before and after photos using a specific hashtag. This is a fun and interactive way to promote good orthodontic health habits.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Orthodontic Health Month is Important

Promotes confidence and self-esteem

Having a straight, healthy smile can boost one's self-confidence significantly. National Orthodontic Health Month highlights the importance of a confident smile and encourages individuals to seek orthodontic treatment to improve their smile and self-esteem.

Proper orthodontic care can improve overall health

Orthodontic issues can impact more than just the appearance of your smile. Misaligned teeth or jaw can cause difficulty eating and speaking, tooth decay, and even headaches. By addressing these issues with proper orthodontic treatment, you can improve your overall health and well-being.

Early detection is key for successful treatment

National Orthodontic Health Month serves as a reminder to get regular check-ups for early detection of any orthodontic issues. The earlier problems are identified, the more likely it is that the treatment will be successful and result in a healthy, beautiful smile.

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