I was born in Helena, Montana, and lived there until I graduated from Carroll College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology. I loved everything about Helena and Carroll College, especially the small-town atmosphere and friendly environment. After graduation, I was fortunate enough to meet my wife, Sandy Owen. We soon moved to Minneapolis, where I attended the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Although dental school and the weather were challenging, I survived both and graduated with high distinction. Sandy and I soon moved again, this time to Louisville, Kentucky, where I had been accepted into the orthodontic residency program at the University of Louisville. Those were good years as well, as I spent time learning my trade, enjoying our early married years with lots of time together and marveling at how much deep frying was employed in Southern cooking.
I was introduced to orthodontics during dental school by my older brother, Bryan, who is also an orthodontist. He invited me to visit the schools orthodontic clinic as often as I could. It was in the orthodontic clinic that I knew I had found what I really wanted to do with my dental training. This career lets me work with both kids and adults and challenges my brain daily to respect that each case is unique, and since nearly all my patients quickly lose any fear they might have had about treatment, my staff and I get to spend most of the treatment time getting to know our patients and putting as much fun into the process as possible. I have a fantastic staff and great patients, and it is not an exaggeration to say that I love to come to work because I get to work each day with so many extraordinary people. On top of that, Im lucky enough to see the work I do positively impact my patients, and I often get to enjoy watching my patients confidence and self-esteem grow as their treatment progresses.
Sandy and I chose to settle in Washington because it was near our families, was stunningly beautiful, and allowed us to get outside and get active or stay inside with our books, guilt-free, on really rainy days. We have enjoyed our years here in the Snoqualmie Valley, and we look forward to raising our two children, Anika and Carter, in the shadow of Mt. Si. In my free time, I enjoy playing with my kids, running 5Ks with less-than-stellar times and trying in vain to catch up on lost sleep.
But it is more than just offering the best technical orthodontic care at Kirby Nelson Orthodontics we focus on each patient like they are a part of our family, celebrating every success along the way.
Reviews
Rating 4.8 out of 5 based on 54 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestAmanda B.
a year ago
We have been going to Kirby Nelson's office for many years now. 3 sets of braces, 1 expander, and 1 set of Invisalign. Their staff works hard and is efficient- plus they are so kind! Everyone there is knowledgeable and makes your visit a good experience.
Pennell Jennifer
a year ago
it was great
Fitzwater Reginald
a year ago
good
Jennifer
2 years ago
I have been with this amazing team for the last 3 yrs and 7 months needing braces from start to finish with all my ortho care. Dr Nelson has always been extremely efficient, thorough, forthright and caring with a great sense of humor. He and his incredible staff go above and beyond.They took care of me like family while navigating exceptional quality care. When I lost my Veteran hubby of 29yrs 2 3/4 yrs ago, they sent beautiful flowers without me informing them he passed. They truly are the BEST of the BEST on ALL levels!
Alex Othon
2 years ago
Awesome people!
Tracie Schlumpf
2 years ago
Friendly office staff & competitive pricing. Over all great experience with Dr. Nelson & team!
Tracie Schlumpf
3 years ago
Friendly office staff & competitive pricing. Over all great experience with Dr. Nelson & team!
Jennifer M.
5 years ago
BEST of the BEST! As a child and now flight attendant, I always wanted and needed braces. I used to dream of having them by putting gum foil wrappers over my teeth . . . Lol. I found the courage, time and saved (all out of pocket) after raising our family. Not settling after much research & a few consultations later, I walked into the Maple Valley practice ( modern & inviting ) to get more info. I was greeted by an endearing front staff who made time to see me with all the time needed and then some. I knew I had the BEST place after my interaction with his professional clinical staff. Everyone patiently bent over backwards and genuinely went above and beyond. Concerns were addressed, fears alleviated, questions answered and discussed a tailored financial plan with no pressure. Dr. Kirby Nelson is thorough, honest, knowledgeable and very personable. Stacy is extremely kind & skillful at her craft on every level. Julie at the front desk always makes you feel like you're family. As I start my 18 month journey, I do so with a phenomenal team. #ToothWhisperer #BracesAt51 #TeethMatter
Naomi Dykes
5 years ago
I am very please with the results of my teeth after wearing braces for 1.5 years. Dr. Nelson took time to explain the process to me and I did not feel rushed. I also enjoyed being assisted by his lovely staff. Thank you Kirby Nelson Orthodontics!
Jessica Wallsinger
5 years ago
Awesome staff and great results!
Jennifer M.
5 years ago
BEST of the BEST! As a child and now flight attendant, I always wanted and needed braces. I used to dream of having them by putting gum foil wrappers over my teeth . . . Lol. I found the courage, time and saved (all out of pocket) after raising our family. Not settling after much research & a few consultations later, I walked into the Maple Valley practice ( modern & inviting ) to get more info. I was greeted by an endearing front staff who made time to see me with all the time needed and then some. I knew I had the BEST place after my interaction with his professional clinical staff. Everyone patiently bent over backwards and genuinely went above and beyond. Concerns were addressed, fears alleviated, questions answered and discussed a tailored financial plan with no pressure. Dr. Kirby Nelson is thorough, honest, knowledgeable and very personable. Stacy is extremely kind & skillful at her craft on every level. Julie at the front desk always makes you feel like you're family. As I start my 18 month journey, I do so with a phenomenal team. #ToothWhisperer #BracesAt51 #TeethMatter
Elise Wharton
5 years ago
Amazing Staff that really takes care of us and Dr. Kirby is Awesome
BRIAN CATHERSON
6 years ago
So far so good. The staff is very friendly and the doctors seem to know what they're doing! When checking around for non-insured prices, Kirby was a great deal!
Jessica Wallsinger
6 years ago
Awesome staff and great results!
Naomi Dykes
6 years ago
I am very please with the results of my teeth after wearing braces for 1.5 years. Dr. Nelson took time to explain the process to me and I did not feel rushed. I also enjoyed being assisted by his lovely staff. Thank you Kirby Nelson Orthodontics!
Elise Wharton
6 years ago
Amazing Staff that really takes care of us and Dr. Kirby is Awesome
Rochelle Lopez
6 years ago
What can I say... Dr. Nelson and all of his staff are just awesome. Very welcoming and friendly atmosphere. I would recommend to anyone out there looking for ortho treatment :)
Taylor Wilson
6 years ago
Love Kirby orthodontics! The staff is amazing and takes great care of you. I highly recommend!
Michael Weber
6 years ago
Staff was very friendly and professional, Overall great experience.
Anthony Gilden
6 years ago
Always happy, and they definitely know what they're doing!
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