Orthodontist and her Smile Crew
By CJ
Dr. Nancy Leung accepted a work-study assignment at the Oral Microbiology Testing Laboratory at USC School of Dentistry as an undergraduate. That’s where she found a way to combine her love of science and art.
Now having earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Southern California and holding a Certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics from the University of Minnesota, Dr. Leung’s profession is her passion. She opened her Watsonville practice in 2007 and her office in Aptos in 2012.
Orthodontics is the combination of function and esthetics. By adjusting teeth into proper alignment, it allows improvement in speech, mastication, and esthetics.
It is important to deal with potential jaw problems early in life. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends children have an evaluation at about the age of seven. With an early evaluation, Dr. Leung can usually determine if there is need for intervention.
Paths to a more beautiful and functional smile begins with the goals of a correct alignment of the teeth and jaws. Sometimes, orthodontic treatment is necessary prior to dental restorations including crowns, bridges, and implants. Dr. Leung works closely with her patient’s dentist as a team to ensure a successful outcome in their bite and eventual restorations.
Dr. Leung’s Smile Crew follows environmental practices by using digital x-rays to limit radiation exposure and digital charting. Digital x-rays and photographs her patient’s teeth are easy to share, available immediately, and allow patients to be involved in their own dental care.
Overhead screens provide the patient a relaxing view from the dental chair to see the recommended procedure at their initial appointment. Patients of all ages gain confidence in previewing the procedures and learning how they will reach the final results. Dr. Leung’s Treatment Coordinator will also explain the appropriate care options available to help patients understand and achieve success. It’s important to Dr. Leung that the patient’s first visit is thorough for everyone to understand the problems presented and what needs to be done.
After getting their braces on, a Hygiene Kit highlights the team’s effort with the latest processes of brushing and flossing. Guided brushing at the office is a service provided to both adults and children. To encourage proper hygiene and appliance care, patients can win raffle tickets for fun prizes both for the young and the young at heart.
Patient treatments available include comprehensive treatment, early child interceptive treatment (Phase I, Phase II), and adult orthodontic treatment. Dr. Leung also offers metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign clear aligners. Additionally, orthognathic surgery is available to correct conditions of the jaw and face related to structure, TMJ disorders, malocclusion, or other orthodontic problems that cannot be easily treated with braces alone. Dr. Leung also treats patients with special needs.
Dr. Leung is a member of Smiles Change Lives and Give Kids a Smile, two national organizations donating orthodontic services to children from lower-income families needing treatment. She is also available to local schools to talk about dental health including nutrition or oral hygiene instructions.
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Dr. Leung offers weekend appointments, various office hours and office locations in Aptos and Watsonville to accommodate patients’ schedules. The Smile Crew is accepting new patients at this time. Her offices are located at 9515 Soquel Drive, Suite #103 in Aptos and at 56 Penny Lane, Suite B, in Watsonville. Visit Dr. Leung’s website at www.SmileCrewOrtho.com or call for an appointment at 831.722.5022.