Orthodontics runs in my family. My dad was an orthodontist and I grew up working in his practice after school and on weekends. There was no way around it: I was meant to be an orthodontist. I have the best job in the world. I absolutely love coming to my office every day. In fact, I hesitate to even call it work, its so enjoyable. I have a passion for my patients, my staff, and my profession.
I love watching a patients self-esteem and confidence blossom as they see their teeth straighten. The day we remove the braces, and they see their finished smile shining back in the mirror, is the most rewarding moment for me: they are thrilled with the results, and I am thrilled for them.
Throughout the year I, along with my staff, attend many orthodontic lectures, seminars, and courses. This ensures we remain at the leading-edge, current on new discoveries, techniques, and technology. Our collective goal is to continually learn to the benefit our patients.
My staff members truly blow me away. What amazes me is how they treat each patient as if that patient was the most important person theyre seeing that day. From the team member who welcomes them at the front desk to the team member who checks them out at the end of the visit, and everywhere in between, each patient is made to feel important because they are!
I am an unabashed lover of Jesus Christ and a disciple of His teachings.'Our office operates under Kingdom principles and The Golden Rule.' Treating others as we wish to be treated is our mission statement. I have a big heartfor the children of Guatemala which has resulted in hundreds of orphans receiving desperately needed dental care. 'We have a role to play in this world and worshipping God by serving others is a blessing.'
Im also a treasure hunter at heart. So on my rare day off, I head out to a super secret spot to search and explore for Native American artifacts. Im fascinated by arrowheads: who made them? How long ago? Why did they just throw it on the ground? I will spend hours in search of the perfect arrowhead. I love the mystery of it.
We recognize that all of 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. We are pleased to welcome you and your family, and we look forward to working with you.
I really love getting to know our patients and learning what interests them. The most rewarding part of my job, though, is seeing the positive impact we have when someone sees their new smile for the first time. I welcome our new patients and families to the practice. Im with them through their initial exam, and then review the treatment plan and answer their questions. I also assist with their insurance paperwork and make financial arrangements, too.
I love watching a persons teeth gradually move into correct position and witnessing a patients excitement as they see their smile develop. The best moment is seeing that patients joy when their braces are removed and they see their beautiful new smile. It never gets old. I provide chairside assistance to Dr. Dr. Merritt as he cares for our patients. I make sure he has everything he needs and am a second pair of hands for him. At the same time, I keep our patient updated.
Originally from Harlingen, Ive lived in San Antonio for more than 15 years. I moved here with my two young sons, who are now young men and students at UTSA. Im family oriented and have a young daughter. Watching her experience new things is the highlight of my day.
I love seeing the joy and excitement on a persons face when their braces are removed. The moment they see the transformation of their smile is priceless. They cant stop laughing and smiling, and were celebrating with them. Giving great people smiles for life is the best part of my work. I assist Dr. Merritt chairside during various orthodontic procedures. I support him while telling our patient what were doing and making sure theyre comfortable.
For most people, achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is the reason for receiving orthodontic care. If you're self-conscious about your smile, correcting your concerns with braces will greatly improve the way you look and feel.
When your treatment is complete, you will have the smile you've always dreamed of and the confidence to show it off! We also want you to feel comfortable and confident throughout your entire orthodontic experience, and our practice is dedicated to making sure that you receive the quality care you deserve.
Orthodontic appliances are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to the proper position.
Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. You can now choose clear or metal brackets and, in some cases, the color of your appliance. Wires are far less noticeable, and the latest materials are designed to move teeth faster with more comfort. Today, any age is a great age to wear braces!
Treatment time varies and can last between one and three years, depending on several factors including age, treatment method, and how minor or severe your case is. A big factor in a successful treatment is you! The more involved and diligent you are, the more efficient your treatment will be. For children, receiving interceptive or early treatment can also help provide a quicker treatment time.