There is nothing like the feeling of changing someones life through braces and various orthodontic techniques. The smiles I can create for my patients have such a significant impact on their lives and are truly rewarding to see. As an orthodontist, I feel very blessed and privileged to be part of that positive change.
Orthodontics is not only a science, its also an art. I love witnessing how each person comes in with varying degrees of malocclusion, yet each has the same goal: a healthy, beautiful smile. Its my responsibility to use my skills and knowledge to make that happen, and develop a treatment path thats right for them. Whats best of all, at least for me, is that I use my knowledge to create smiles for people I care about.
My patients are fascinating individuals, and I love getting to know them on a personal level, building relationships as their treatment progresses. I enjoy hearing their stories and learning about their interests and families. It is an honor to provide care for such wonderful people and to help them attain great oral health and a beautiful smile while we become friends.
The path in becoming a board-certified orthodontist is not a short one. Typically, one would need to obtain a 4-year undergraduate degree followed by a 4-year dental school training. After dental school, usually the top 10 dental students have the opportunity to continue a 2 to 3-year orthodontic residency. It takes 10-11 years after high school to be an orthodontist. To become a board-certified orthodontist, one must go the extra mile by taking a board-certification exam (only 1 out of 3 orthodontist are board-certified).My Doctorate of Dental Surgery and Master of Science degrees were both awarded at theUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.The education I received in these programs was top-notch. The last dental ranking of US News & World Report ranked UTHSCSAas #1 dental school in the nation.
Oral healthcare, and especially orthodontics, is an ever-changing field, with new technologies, materials, and treatment methodologies constantly being developed. Its essential that I stay on the leading edge of knowledge in order to provide my patients with the best care available, so I attend multiple meetings, conferences, and lectures throughout the year, including those offered by the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association. I am also a board-certified orthodontist by the American Board of Orthodontics.
I was born and raised in Texas, and now call The Woodlands my home.I love going to the movies, traveling the globe when I have the chance, and being an avid foodie. I am also quite adventurous; I enjoyziplining, swimming in a shark cage, and snorkeling with sea turtles when Im on vacation.
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.
Dr. Shao graduated top of his class in dental school and served as chief resident his final year in residency. He was also the first resident to graduate with a Master of Science in dental science at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Dr. Shao is a board-certified orthodontist. All practicing orthodontists are licensed, but only 33% of all orthodontists are board certified as well.
i-CAT 3D imaging enables us to provide quick, comfortable, and effective dental imaging for the most precise diagnosis possible. It is also a safer diagnostic tool because it uses less radiation than traditional X-rays.
We have many amenities to make our patients and their families feel comfortable. Our patients will always be greeted by our friendly team. We have a coffee bar and fresh cookies that are baked daily. Younger children can choose to visit our Showtime Theater where they can sit and enjoy a family-friendly movie, and older patients and parents can relax in our Wi-Fi lounge.
One of the great features of our office is that we understand that life gets busy. We accommodate our patients schedules by offering early mornings, extended evenings, and Saturday and Sunday hours. We are a family-oriented practice that respects our patients time.