The Wise Orthodontics & Stonebridge Orthodontics Difference: Your Personal Orthodontic Assistant

At Wise Orthodontics and Stonebridge Orthodontics, new patients are assigned to their own Personal Orthodontic Assistant (POA). The POA follows them through their orthodontic treatment from start to finish. POAs function much like a personal trainer, providing consistent encouragement and guidance to help attain the desired goal. This unique concept allows patients to develop close relationships with their orthodontic assistant, and with Drs. Jensen and Wise.

This beneficial bond is welcomed by patients, parents, and the assistants themselves, who find that it supports quality care and ensures a positive experience. “Orthodontic treatment is probably the longest sustained personal interaction a person has with a medical professional,” notes Dr. Wise. “Patients typically visit their orthodontist 20 or 30 times over the entire course of treatment. We’ve expanded the team to include both the doctor and the personal orthodontic assistant, and have specifically designed the practice and the office around this concept.”

Mary Jo, a personal orthodontic assistant at Wise Orthodontics, has been in the field of dentistry for nearly 30 years. She notes, “This concept has enhanced treatment exponentially, in both direct and indirect ways. We get to know each patient personally, and become familiar with their needs and preferences. If they are especially sensitive or anxious, we know that before they arrive, and we can take great care of them during their appointment. We also get to know the parents and their scheduling needs. We can keep treatment from interfering with work or school.”

Robyn, another personal orthodontic assistant, points out, “I love this concept, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. It makes our days fun and it helps us provide exceptional care. Fortunately, our patients haven’t experienced any other kind of care, but the parents often exclaim that it’s sure not like the orthodontic treatment they remember!” She adds, “We enjoy visiting with our patients and we build a rapport with them. I enjoy keeping up with their trips, their games, their school events, their friendships — they consider us part of their lives. I often get cards from patients, and I’m flattered to have been invited to important occasions and celebrations.”

Lauren is a personal orthodontic assistant at the Stonebridge office. As she explains, “The one-on-one relationship we have with our patients helps them feel comfortable each time they visit, and really enhances continuity of care. I can monitor the improvement from month to month, watch for any concerns, and make recommendations if necessary. It’s exciting to see the transformation in their smiles during their time with us.”

According to Tammy, also at the Stonebridge office, “Every patient is different. Being a personal orthodontic assistant allows me to be familiar with every nuance of the patient’s treatment plan. We get to know what’s going on in their lives, what their interests are, and what is important to them. We form a strong bond with them. We are invested in their success just like they are, and they know we are on their side. It’s very rewarding to see them reach their goals.” She adds, “Our patients can provide electronic feedback through our Ortho Sesame program, and they are very complimentary. When I hear that they enjoyed their experience with me, it absolutely makes my day and keeps me charged up about my work.”