Making a Case for Early Orthodontic Treatment (w/Dr. Kevin Boyd) [Ep.117]

Episode Summary:
In this episode, I welcome Dr. Kevin Boyd, a renowned pediatric dentist and expert in early orthodontic intervention, anthropology, and evolutionary oral medicine. Together, we explore the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of malocclusion, the interplay between genetics and environment, and the need for a paradigm shift in orthodontic education and practice.

Key Topics Covered:

• Dr. Boyd’s unique career journey: from cardiology research to pediatric dentistry and anthropology
• The historical divide between orthodontic and pediatric dental departments
• The critical role of behavioral sciences in treating young patients
• Why many orthodontists are hesitant to treat children under age 8, and how training and practice models contribute to this reluctance
• The impact of early intervention on long-term oral health and overall well-being
• The evolutionary and anthropological perspective on malocclusion: why it’s a modern problem
• The role of diet, breastfeeding, and environmental factors in craniofacial development
• The importance of collaborative, multidisciplinary care (including ENTs, pediatricians, myofunctional therapists, and more)
• Addressing common myths: genetics vs. environment, and the evidence for early treatment
• How to advocate for proactive, patient-centered care and overcome resistance within the profession

Notable Quotes:

• “We are hardwired to have the capability of epigenetically producing a beautiful craniofacial structure—if we get the right environmental inputs.”
• “You don’t have to treat every child, but you do have to perform a validated risk assessment.”
• “It only takes one case to see the life-changing impact of early intervention.”

Resources & Links:

• Airway Palooza 2025 – [https://airwayhealthsolutions.com/palooza] - Use code DOCPALOOZA for $500 off registration
• TheOrthoCoach.com – Free educational content, CE courses, and coaching
• DOC Community on Facebook – Search “DOC Community” to join
• Recommended reading: “Ultra-Processed People” by Chris van Tulleken, “The Human Respiratory Apparatus” (1953), and works by Melvin Moss, Enlow, and others
• Harvard study by Silver: Silver EI. American Journal of Orthodontics and Oral Surgery. 1994;30(12):635:659.
• Link to AADSM Article: https://aadsm.org/journal/special_article_1_issue_112.php
• Dunedin Study: Richmond-Rakerd LS et al. PNAS. 2021;118(3):1-12
• Ultra-Processed People by VanTullican:  https://www.amazon.com/Ultra-Processed-People-Science-Behind-Food/dp/1324036729/ref=asc_df_1324036729/?gad_source=1&hvadid=693449522341&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl&hvlocint&hvlocphy=9012267&hvnetw=g&hvpone&hvpos&hvptwo&hvqmt&hvrand=12253883059461682792&hvtargid=pla-1960574051028&linkCode=df0&mcid=f479b78a5ba03190bbb7f73789672dc7&psc=1&tag=hyprod-20
• Email Dr. Mike (drmike@theorthocoach.com) to get a copy of Dr. Boyd’s letter to the Primary Care Physician

Contact:

• Email Dr. Mike: drmike@theorthocoach.com
• Guest suggestions: Reach out via email or Facebook group

Thank you for listening!
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