Having braces in high school changed my life, taking me from being a hidden extrovert to someone who is confident and outgoing. Straight teeth gave me the confidence to interact with people in a way Id always wanted but never felt comfortable doing, because I was self-conscious about my teeth.
The transformation in my self-esteem, as the orthodontist crafted my new smile, had a profound and lasting impact in my life: I became an orthodontist to share that same experience with others giving each patient the confidence to shine!
Dr. Gates has practiced orthodontics since completing his specialty residency in 1999. That challenging education and training provided him with a solid foundational understanding of the biomechanics of tooth movement, as well as the technical skills required to deliver quality care.
However, orthodontics as with all areas of healthcare is a constantly advancing field. Ongoing research yields new techniques and technologies, each of which has the potential to improve the patient experience and results. Through active pursuit of continuing professional education, Dr. Gates stays at the forefront of changes in the specialty.
Having grown up in a Navy family, Dr. Gates moved a lot as a child, and graduated high school in Kodiak, Alaska. He and his wife Zee, an attorney, were married in 1988 and have lived in Round Rock since 2002. The couple has three children Ava, Ella, and Zane and their family is rounded out by Suki, the dog.
I opened Round Rock Orthodontics in 2002, having designed the office to reflect my belief that patient privacy is of utmost importance. While many orthodontists embrace the idea of an open-bay treatment area, where patients are treated side-by-side in a big room, I designed my space so I could treat patients in a manner that respects their privacy.
Having private suites reassures patients they have the full attention of my staff and me during their visit. The individual rooms also help each patient feel secure and that fosters comfort as they ask questions and discuss treatment.
Choosing orthodontic care is choosing to make a lasting, wonderful change in your life. Healthy, correctly positioned teeth mean an attractive, pleasing smile a smile that engages others and allows your confident personality to shine in every interaction!
For more than 20 years, Dr. Paul A. Gates and his team have created incredible smiles for the Round Rock community. Our practice has grown through referrals from area dentists, parents, and current and former patients. Their perfect, finished smiles are the best testimonial to the quality of care we offer and the results we deliver!
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.