Ask Dr. Gates: Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

Some people wonder why Dr. Gates and his team work so hard to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime.

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, give us a call to set up a consultation. Dr. Gates and team can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Happy New Year!

When should you call Dr. Gates and Round Rock Orthodontics?

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together this helpful list for your advantage. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give Dr. Gates and his team a call today!

--The team at Round Rock Orthodontics

Dr. Gates and team want to know: What do you love about the holidays?

The holiday season is upon us, and as the team at Round Rock Orthodontics reflect on
the year that was, we’d like to ask: What’s your favorite part about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

Patient reviews for Dr. Gates and Round Rock Orthodontics

Dr. Gates and his team love getting patient reviews. And lately, Round Rock Orthodontics has been getting some pretty great testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! Happy Tuesday!

"What a personable doctor! Can talk to you as a human and understand the complexities. Fantastic service!" ~ Kelly Z.

"Very personable! We like the fact that his patients needs we feel always come first - when we have needed him - he has been available at the drop of a hat." ~ Pam P.

"When I ask questions, Dr. Gates is willing to spend time talking to me about my concerns. His office location is very convenient to get to from my house, too. Also, all of the staff working with him in the back seem very good at what they're doing." ~ John M.

"The appointment times were convenient. The office was very warm and inviting, albeit very busy :) Dr. Gates is very knowledgable and easy to talk with. My son was a little anxious about getting started, but Dr. Gates answered his questions." ~ Michelle C.

"How can I benefit from orthodontic treatment?"

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore, Dr. Gates says! Anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic care; whether it is correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment at Round Rock Orthodontics for a consultation and find out how adult orthodontics will transform your smile, and your life!

--From Dr. Gates and team

Meet the Orthodontist

Dr. Gates earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery in 1996 from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He completed his orthodontic residency in 1999 at the University of Nebraska. His Bachelor of Science degree is from the University of Arizona.

Dr. Gates began practicing as an orthodontist in 1999 and opened his Round Rock office in 2002. He believes orthodontic treatment made a profound difference in his life and enjoys seeing it change the lives of his patients.

He is an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Southwest Society of Orthodontists, Texas Dental Association, Capital Area Dental Society, and the Lone Star Dental Seminars Study Club.

Dr. Gates and his wife, Zee, married in 1988. They have three children, big sister, Ava and twins, Ella and Zane. They love spending time with their children camping, traveling, and being outdoors. Dr. Gates feels blessed to live and practice in Round Rock.