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I've been practicing orthodontics for twenty years now, and one thing that I've learned is that we're not in the business of just moving teeth. There's no question that moving teeth is a big part of what we do, but it's only a small part of the responsibility we assume when we begin to work with a child in our practice. We're very much aware of how vulnerable children are; how delicate their relationships are with the adult world; how fragile their self esteem is; how conflicted they are over whether to grow up or stay a kid. We know how to move teeth in this practice, but we also know we have the opportunity to move minds. And we don't take that responsibility lightly.
In our practice, we ensure that the patient is aware of what procedures are being completed and how it will benefit them. Each patient's treatment is individualized to fit their specific orthodontic needs.
In addition, we ask our patients to make certain choices pertaining to their care. We feel this is important because it familiarizes them with the process of making larger decisions later in life. We look for ways to help kids motivate themselves toward a healthier lifestyle based on their individual personalities and preferences. We give feedback and support in a style designed to empower children, never to shame or embarrass them. We challenge kids to demand more of themselves, because we believe they have untapped resources of which they may not yet be aware.
As I said, my monthly visits to an orthodontist as a kid inspired my decision to become an orthodontist myself. I don't expect all my patients to grow up to be orthodontists, but I am very aware of the tremendous influence my staff and I have on patients during their time with us.
We can and do make a difference in the lives of the children we treat…and we're very proud of that.
Don Jorgensen, D.D.S.
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