The day that I received my set of lingual (tongue side) braces, I was like a kid in the candy store. I was excited. Not only will I begin on my road of straightening my teeth, but I will also be experiencing firsthand the effects of using the latest technology in braces!
Ever since I began my career in orthodontics over 20 years ago, I embraced the idea that every person is unique, with a particular set of circumstances that require individualized, custom solutions.
We received training in diagnosis and treatment planning that analyzed every aspect of the person’s tooth size, shape, and position, as well as their jaw position and facial appearance. We looked at each person’s anatomical needs as well as their practical, everyday habits and esthetic requirements. I believed that my treatment planning included the desires of the patients.
Over the years, I honed my skills at coaxing the essence of the person’s functional and esthetic needs out of the patient’s x-rays, models, and clinical exam, and coming up with the best solution for that patient. However, when it comes to executing those desires in their actual treatment, we are still using a prefabricated set of braces on each person.
Mind you, braces have come a long way in the use of technology; new materials in the construction of braces in Vancouver and wires have made our jobs much more accurate and with greater comfort and reduced treatment time. However, the braces themselves are still not “customized” for each person. To get the most out of the braces we are using, we still had to make adjustments to the braces clinically to achieve the desired movements that we wanted.
To reduce the uncertainty of individual variation, I believe that braces that we use should be customized for each person, ones that will fit each tooth exactly, and then be able to place them on those teeth exactly where they should be placed.
Before we place them in our patient, we should test it out on a computer simulation, to see how the teeth should be moved, and look at the final result, to see if the treatment is what we want to achieve. After years of clinical trials, and the advancement in computer technology, we are finally at a point where all this may be possible!
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
