Smart Choice Orthodontics

I can’t say enough great things about Dr. Oates and the entire team at Smart Choice Orthodontics. From my very first consultation to the day my braces came off, they made the entire process smooth, comfortable, and even enjoyable! Every appointment started on time, Chelsea was always welcoming and professional, and Dr. Oates took the time to explain every step and answer all my questions. I really appreciated how they use the latest technology and genuinely care about their patients’ comfort and confidence. My smile looks amazing now I honestly can’t stop smiling! If you’re looking for an orthodontist who is skilled, compassionate, and detail-oriented, I highly recommend Smart Choice Orthodontics. They truly go above and beyond to make sure you get the best possible results!!

Stay away! Strike 1: my daughter’s expander slipped which was causing gum irration bleeding I sent detailed pictures to Dr Oates personal phone, and left multiple messages to the office. I finally got response accusing us of poor dental hygiene, even after explaining it looks like the device was out of alignment. 3 days later he removed the device, because it slipped out of position and was causing pain/irritation just like i told him in the numerous . Strike 2: my 9 year old daughter’s wire slid out of the bracket, and was stabbing into her cheek. After no response from the office and leaving messages on his personal cellphone, I ordered a specialty orthodontist tool and repaired it myself 3 days before they finally got back to me. Strike 3 : after 13 months of treatment they decided to bring up a insurance issue that they were having trouble billing my insurance, the day her braces were going to be removed. 15 minutes after our appointment was supposed to start, the receptionist told me they won’t remove them until they get $1200. Then they refused to follow up with the insurance claim, the receptionist was very rude, and never filed the claim to my insurance. I felt extorted, and foolish for putting my daughter’s care in the hands of someone I thought knew for 20 years, and believed I could trust. I can provide records, receipts and text messages.

Took my two kids in for their first orthodontic visit and I was blown away by how smooth everything went! The staff was super welcoming from the moment we walked in. My son is usually shy around new people, but the assistants made him laugh within minutes. They explained each step in a way the kids could actually understand, which helped them feel comfortable instead of nervous. Dr. Oates was amazing! Patients gentle and great at talking directly to the kids so they felt involved. He even showed them how braces work using a fun model, which my daughter thought was “so cool.” One of the best surprises was their emotional support animal. The sweetest little dog greeted my youngest right when we walked in and helped calm her anxiety instantly. The dog clearly has its own “job” it comes out to say hi, then goes right back to its bed behind the receptionist’s desk. The staff doesn’t handle the animal during appointments, so there’s no worry about cross- contamination or anything of that sort. It’s just a comforting presence for nervous kiddos. The office was bright, clean, and had a great kid’s area with games while we waited. They also let the kids pick their brace colors, which was definitely the highlight of their visit. Overall, it was an incredibly positive experience. If you’re a parent looking for an orthodontist who truly understands kids and creates a safe, clean, calming environment, I highly recommend this office!

I took my son to a consultation for braces. We arrived early, no one was at the reception desk. I walked towards the office to search for someone 10 minutes after our scheduled appointment time , and was startled when a dog wearing a diaper growled/barked at me. The medical assistant grabbed the dog, and said she would be with us shortly. I found it strange, and unhygienic to have an animal walking free range in a medical setting. Let alone one that isn't house trained. The dog was walking around, jumping on empty dental chairs, and close to other dental equipment during our consultation. The medical assistant, and Dr Oates looked annoyed when I asked if they could put the dog in the office. The medical assistant grabbed the dog by the collar, and put him away. When she came back, Dr Oates asked for a tool, she obliged still wearing the same gloves she touched the dog with!! When I said something they changed gloves , and grabbed a new tool that wasn’t contaminated (hopefully). They were saying passive aggressive remarks “must be a cat person” , I didn’t know you were afraid of dogs” etc. I have a dog, and a cat, and I don’t allow them near my kitchen. In reality I was concerned with the cross contamination that I witnessed was just the tip of the iceberg.

Pursuing fixing/taking care of my teeth was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I was referred to this office by my dentist. Very pleased with the referral as Smart Choice Orthodontics has been amazing this entire time. I am nearing the end of my braces treatment and prepping for jaw surgery. Dr Oates has been very helpful, informative and supportive the entire time. Dr Oates has been very much like a parent figure in the way that he has made sure that I’ve been on top of everything I had to be from researching insurances to contacting surgeons and getting my referral. Dr Oates has been nothing but professional, kind and stern when he needs to be. It is very obvious that he truly cares about his patients and is passionate about what he does for a living. In addition to that, his front desk/assistant Chelsea has been just as wonderful and supportive. She is very friendly and professional at the same time. Chelsea is most definitely going places in her profession. Couldn’t imagine a better duo as orthodontist and assistant. They are the best team. They have made me feel so much better about my smile and we are not even done yet. Looking forward to the completion of the journey all because of them! Would recommend. 10/10!