Dr. Lee grew up in Queens, N.Y., attending Regis High School in Manhattan. After high school he completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University and graduated cum laude with a B.A. in Bio-Chemistry. After deciding to pursue a career in dentistry, Dr. Lee decided to attend dental school at Tufts University in Boston, M.A. earning his D.M.D. There he graduated summa cum laude, finishing 3rd in his class of 134 students.
At Tufts, Dr. Lee received numerous awards and distinctions. He was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon (XiXi Chapter) Dental Honor Society. He received Dean's List Awards all four years of dental school and also received Dean's Recognition for High Achievement on Part I and Part II of the National Dental Board Examinations. At graduation he received such awards as The American College of Prosthodontists Undergraduate Achievement Award and The Alumni Clinical Excellence Award in Endodontics.
After dental school Dr. Lee was offered a position for advanced training in the Orthodontic residency program at Tufts to earn his Certificate in Orthodontics. After completing his residency he and his wife Gemma decided to move back to New York where they were both originally from and now they live in Syosset with their three children Lindsay, Lucas and Lillian.
Dr. Lee is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), American Dental Association (ADA), and New York State Dental Association (NYSDA). Locally he is a member of the Nassau Dental Society.
What is Orthodontics? The term itself comes from two Greek words: 'orthos,' which means to right or correct and 'odon,' which is the Greek word for tooth. Orthodontics is a sub-specialty of dentistry involving the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental malocclusions. The practice of orthodontics involves the design, application, and control of corrective appliances, commonly known as braces, to treat and correct these problems.
When to visit an orthodontist? The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation? Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
Why should malocclusions be treated? According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smileit creates a healthier you.
