Bringing More Extensive, Gentle Orthodontic Care to The Tooth Doc Family

The team at The Tooth Doc is expanding! Dr. Leslie Ellingson will be joining us in January, and we couldn’t be more pleased to have her. Dr. Leslie Ellingson is already part of The Tooth Doc family since Dr. Dan Ellingson is her husband, but now we get her expertise in addition to her friendliness to expand patient care.

Dr. Leslie Ellingson is a Nebraska native and grew up in Fremont, NE. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from UNO with a bachelor’s degree in Biology. Shortly after, she moved to Lincoln where she received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree with high distinction honors from UNMC College of Dentistry. UNMC is also where she completed her Orthodontic specialty certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics and Master’s degree in Oral Biology.

We asked her to introduce herself to our patients, and this is what she had to say.

Who or what inspired Dr. Leslie Ellingson to become an orthodontist?

From the time I was eight-years-old, I was inherently intrigued by orthodontics. I remember I was very interested in my older sister’s palatal expander; I was curious about how it worked and wondered what it would feel like in my own mouth! Additionally, I remember my own orthodontist being so friendly, caring and happy, and always looking forward to going for my monthly adjustment visits. I truly think that my inherent interest, coupled with a great experience, validated my desire to pursue a career in orthodontics!

What do you love most about being an orthodontist and why?

I get to see patients on a very regular basis, and I have the opportunity to become more than just a provider, but also a friend.

What is your favorite procedure and why?

Toward the end of treatment when we enter the “finishing” phase, I enjoy making detail bends in the wires to really make sure everything is just perfect!

How is your approach different from other orthodontists?

I want to provide the patient a great result regardless of which treatment modality they desire, that being braces or clear aligners. I want patients to feel like I have educated them without overwhelming them, while still being authentic and real and spending time answering questions. When patients feel informed and involved in their treatment plan, they are more likely to be successful and in the end will be excited by their results!

What do you hope to bring to The Tooth Doc?

I hope to be a gentle hand, a family friend, a positive influence in my younger patients’ lives, to provide great treatment results, and ultimately make people feel good about their smile.

Tell us about the different types of dental solutions you’re bringing to the practice.

I’m bringing an aesthetic approach to orthodontics using Invisalign, or clear aligner treatments, as well as an innovative bracket system which can provide the “wow” smile. I’ll be using 3-D radiology technology so I can visualize tooth impactions or complex orthodontic issues early. Additionally, I’ll be using an intraoral scanner to eliminate a majority of the traditional dental impressions needed.

What problematic orthodontic trends do you see in mainstream society today? Are any harmful or dangerous?

The movement toward “DIY” orthodontics being provided directly to the consumer without any professional supervision is a problematic trend. These products are being marketed everywhere you look, and many people have unfortunately fallen victim. These companies are likely not having the patient files reviewed or approved by a licensed dental professional, and the patient is being misled to believe they are great candidates and are promised results that are not actually achievable. As a result, the patient is very unhappy. Most find they can no longer bite together or their teeth are not actually straight, or even worse, their teeth have become loose from an undiagnosed, underlying dental issue.

How do you stay on top of the latest positive trends and developments as an orthodontist?

I am very lucky to have the opportunity to participate in the Omaha Orthodontic Study Club which provides excellent speakers on the latest and greatest! Additionally, I attend annual meetings for the AAO and NSO. I am currently a member of several organizations that span Nebraska and Omaha as well as the midwest and the entire United States, including:

• American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)
• Nebraska Society of Orthodontists (NSO), serving as Treasurer
• Midwest Society of Orthodontists (MSO)
• American Dental Association (ADA)
• Nebraska Dental Association (NDA)
• Omaha District Dental Society (ODDS)

What do you think are some of the biggest misconceptions about orthodontics?

Many people blame braces themselves as the cause of white scarring on the tooth surface. Another big issue buzzing involves beliefs that extracting permanent teeth causes sleep apnea or breathing disorders.

If you could, what advice would you give to a young person considering orthodontics as a career?

The road to completing a post-graduate program is very long and it takes a lot of determination to follow through. At times, you will wonder why you decided to continue on the journey when you see your peers and friends graduating college and starting their careers while you are still taking out loans and studying. Don’t let any of that deter you from the end goal. Orthodontics is life changing for a lot of people and you get to be an integral part of that!

What are some of your favorite places to go around Omaha?

When I’m not helping patients, I enjoy spending time with my husband and son. We like to check out the outlet mall and the zoo, of course. I also enjoy watching baking and cooking shows.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Leslie Ellingson to Learn more.

Whether you’re seeking out orthodontics for the first time or you’re currently under treatment and seeking to transition to a new orthodontist, Dr. Ellingson is ready to help.

You can either make an appointment online or you can call us directly. Check out our Contact Us page for our office hours and location.

Dr. Ellingson and the rest of The Tooth Doc dental team can’t wait to meet you and your family.