Things Change

So, back in The Day, when I was a kid USC Trojan dental student, the science and craft of Orthodontics held about as much appeal for me as a Michael Bolton sing-along.

Orthodontics wasn’t even real dentistry. It seemed more like a discipline practiced by an elite club of tooth engineers. There was no blood, shots, or tears. I equated the results with a car wash. My Camaro used to look awesome for about three days and kids walked away with straight teeth until they threw their retainers away.

And while I wasn’t that enthused about bending wires around plaster teeth as a student, I deeply appreciated the orthodontic care I received as a dentist.

A dental school instructor once described my smile as “train wreck” occlusion. Early on in my career, I was referring kids to the orthodontist and their teeth looked like keyboards compared to mine. But after three years of braces, everything changed…including my confidence. And regarding Dr. Trainwreck; I later referred a patient to him…just before we called law enforcement to persuade her imminent departure.

So, about 15-years ago, GP dentists like me were given the opportunity to provide an orthodontic innovation called Invisalign. Invisalign used clear trays and no metal braces; took me about 5-minutes to sign up for certification. I really valued the benefits of orthodontics and realized many adults, who’d never strap on metal braces, could still benefit from orthodontic care and have healthy, lasting smiles…and maybe even an unexpected breakthrough like me. How could I not provide Invisalign care?

And it doesn’t seem like I’ve been an Invisalign true believer since just after the Angels won the World Series, but it’s true. We provide comprehensive restorative dentistry and our goal is keeping the care as non-invasive as possible; Invisalign is a perfect fit. And what took three years of braces for me would, today, take 6-9 months without four extractions. Things change.

This week, Dental Assistants Extraordinaire Dani and Kolleen will join me and some of my favorite Invisalign colleagues for a family celebration in Las Vegas.

For the last three years I’ve been fortunate enough to be mentored by Invisalign’s top educator, Dr. David Galler. In turn, I’ve had the chance to lead thirty other Invisalign doctors and be part of the most effective and productive Invisalign-providing group in the world. Our group, the American Academy of Clear Aligners (AACA), evolved from one man’s vision and a training described as “The course that changed everything.” Truer words…

Collaborating with co-workers, colleagues from across North America, and patients (all of whom we see as family) and making a difference is about as good as it gets; and it’s the magic that can make each day of dentistry extraordinary, fulfilling, and fun. Who knew? Things change.