Dr. Linakers undergraduate studies were completed at the University of Arizona. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Creighton University School of Dentistry and practiced as a general dentist before returning to school to further his studies in the field of orthodontics. His specialty certificate in orthodontics was awarded from New York University Collegeof Dentistry, department of orthodontics. Dr. Linakers most recent academic achievement is certification from the Roth Williams Center for Functional Occlusion.
Dr. Linaker completes many hours of continuing education each year and maintains certification as a Diplomate with the American Board of Orthodontics. He strives to stay uptodate on the newest developments and techniques in orthodontics. It is his goal to provide his patients with state-of-the-art care at Linaker Orthodontics. Visit Dr. Linaker on his Google+ page.
Dr. Linaker is a native of Tucson, and thoroughly enjoys the beautiful warm climate, gorgeous sunsets, and world-class golf courses. His favorite leisure activities include playing golf, cycling, and traveling. He also enjoys spending time with his wife and three daughters.
We recognize that all our patients are unique and deserve to receive orthodontic care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding orthodontic experience every time you visit our practice.
My experience with Linaker Orthodontics started in 2001 when my children began their orthodontic treatment. Dr. Linaker created beautiful smiles for all three of them. I was so impressed by Dr. Linakers genuine concern for their treatment and the kind, professional care provided by the entire staff, that I went to dental assisting school in hopes of joining his team. In 2005, that dream came true. I have had the pleasure of assisting Dr. Linaker chairside with patient care and assisting patients and their parents with their scheduling needs. I love my job and the people I work with.
Craig and I have been together for 21 years and married for 16. We have a pet Sulcata Tortoise named Spike who is the 3rd largest tortoise in the world. We love reading, hiking and home remodel projects.
In addition to marketing our amazing office to the surrounding communities, I also assist the Front Office and handlesocial media. My career at Linaker Orthodontics began in 1998, and while I took 10years off to be a mom, I was happy to rejoin our team in 2009. I genuinely believe that I have the best job in the world. We love making people smile, and Dr. Linaker is the best orthodontist I have ever known. He makes it easy to promote our office to our surrounding communities!
Im happily married to an amazing guy and love to travel with him as much as possible. We have five beautiful children, 2 daughters-in-law, and 3grandchildren. I love our church, leading bible studiesand serving withthe parent-teacher fellowship team at my daughters school.
Im happily married to my husband of 37 years, Leo,and am a proud mom of my two children, Heather and Adam. I love to travel, golf, and go on adventures with my family. Our travels have taken us to Canada, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Europe, and Costa Rica. My current joy in life is laughing and playing with my grandsonOliver.
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.
If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to see the orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21. Whether you're considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.
The amount of time spent in braces will vary depending on the individual patient, because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between six and 30 months, but most standard treatments take about 22 months.
With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between the braces. You should also floss daily to get in between your braces where your brush isn't able to reach. Your orthodontist can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.
Yes! In fact, it's even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can't reach. This causes bacteria to build up that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.
Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.