The concept of straightening teeth has been around since the mid 1700s. The process back then was crude and expensive using primitive tools and inadequate materials. Fortunately for todays patients, modern orthodontics has become much more efficient, streamlined, and affordable with advancements in technique and better technology.
Cosmetics Many people are self-conscious about their teeth and/or smile which causes them to smile less or to cover their mouth when they do. A pleasing smile is one of the easiest ways to improve self-confidence, and is one of the first things people notice when meeting others. Using braces or aligners, we are able to accurately position each tooth for an ideal smile arrangement.
Health Some experience problems caused by a malocclusion (bad bite). Symptoms range from accelerated wearing/chiping of the teeth to pain in the chewing muscles/joints. We are able to correct the bite with braces which can facilitate health and longevity of the teeth and joints.
Orthodontic treatment can be accomplished using brackets (made of metal or ceramic) or aligners (made of plastic). Brackets remain on the teeth for the entire treatment and the teeth are moved using specialized wires, which are tied to the brackets. Aligners are clear plastic trays that are molded to your teeth. They are removable for eating and brushing and replaced every few weeks. We prefer to see our patients every 4-6 weeks to make adjustments and to make sure the treatment is going well.
Dr. Tingey was born in Seattle, Washington but grew up in Boise, Idaho. His father is a practicing orthodontist so naturally he had plenty of exposure to the field. Early in life he learned how to mow, trim, and take care of the landscape around an orthodontic practice. During his high school years he learned the art of study model trimming. He was eventually trained in wire bending and became adept at making various orthodontic appliances. Dr. Tingey was able to take these skills to college and work in an orthodontic lab part-time during his undergraduate years at Brigham Young University.
It was at BYU that Dr. Tingey met the love of his life to whom hes been married since 2000. Their first child was born in Cleveland, Ohio during his third year of dental school. After graduating with a Doctorate of Dental Medicine, Dr. Tingey moved his small family to Juneau where he was the first resident to complete a new Advanced Education in General Dentistry program. Upon completion of the program he was asked to stay as a staff dentist and part-time faculty for the residency. Two years were spent in this capacity, during which time he added a daughter to his family. Dr. Tingey was then accepted to Loma Linda Universitys graduate program in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.
Dr. Tingeys family increased their numbers yet again by having a California baby. He finished his residency in September of 2011 and genuinely loves the profession hes chosen. I find tremendous satisfaction in the service that Im trained to provide and look forward to a long and fulfilling career.
When hes not taking care of his patients Dr. Tingey can be found in the mountains or on the water, either with his wife and kids or with the scout troop to which he volunteers his time. He is an avid mountaineer and first fell in love with Alaska while climbing Denali in 2003.
Danielle, Scheduling/Treatment Coordinator I manage our office schedule, greet patients, present the financial parts of treatment plans, accept payments, and travel with Dr. Tingey to our satellite offices. I enjoy getting to know our patients and their families, with each visit serving as an opportunity to learn something new about them. Its so fulfilling to watch our patients change and grow over the course of their treatment. My husband and I have two children. We love living in Southeast Alaska and all it has to offer.
Greg, Assistant/Lab Technician I work with patients in the clinic to implement their treatment plan and ensure they are progressing to their new smile on schedule. I also fabricate many of the appliances used during orthodontic treatment. Because of the one-on-one interactions I have with each patient, its amazing to see the changes they go through from the start of their treatment to the finish. I love seeing all their beautiful smiles! I am happily married with four beautiful daughters. We love to spend time outdoors doing various activities as a family.
Amber, Financial Coordinator As our financial coordinator, I work with insurance companies and coordinate our patients accounts. Working here has given me so many opportunities to get to know people from our area, and its always fun to see the amazing changes that take place as each patient finishes treatment. As a part of our great team, its comforting to know that Dr. Tingey wants the best treatment for his patients, and it shows! He is kind, caring, and enthusiastic about all aspects of his job. When Im not working, youll find me at the gym, story time, or running my four kids around to their different activities. What I enjoy most, though, is spending time with my family.
