Something to smile about

While many children are stricken with fear about getting braces, it was actually a pleasant childhood experience for David Wollenschlaeger. In fact, that day helped pave the way for his future career.

“I went in there with crooked teeth and walked out with straight teeth,” he recalls. “My orthodontist was upbeat, happy, and always smiling. I knew right then that I wanted to become an orthodontist.”

That was in 1971. Several years later, he met a female orthodontist during his high school’s career day. That cemented his career choice.

Fast-forward several decades. Dr. Wollenschlaeger has been practicing orthodontics in Lake County since 1990. As an orthodontist, he provides more benefits to patients than simply straightening teeth. When not properly aligned, teeth are more difficult to clean, leading to cavities, gum disease, or even tooth loss. Moreover, the way in which the upper and lower teeth come together when you close your mouth can cause uneven wearing of the surfaces and possibly even temporomandibular joint disorder.

He uses what he refers to as the “Cadillac of materials”— meaning braces manufactured by reputable companies such as 3M Unitek, GAC, and Ormco. He also utilizes Align Technology’s popular Invisalign, a series of invisible, removable aligners that have no metals or wires.

It is getting difficult to differentiate between dentists doing orthodontics and orthodontists doing orthodontics. However, orthodontists such as Dr. Wollenschlaeger complete postgraduate training at an accredited orthodontic residency program. Thus, orthodontists possess the breadth of knowledge to understand all possible treatment complications and offer the best treatment options.

“If you’re going to pay money for braces, it’s extremely important to have it done right,” Dr. Wollenschlaeger says. “Orthodontists are specifically educated and trained to straighten teeth.”

Dr. Wollenschlaeger completed dental school at the University of Florida and completed his orthodontics residency at Indiana University. Certainly, his results speak for themselves.

“Patients send me graduation pictures and cards, and I’m now treating the children and grandchildren of my first patients. For me, it’s very gratifying to improve their self-esteem, as well as their quality of bite.”

33050 Professional Drive, Leesburg, FL 352.787.6800 drdaveortho.com

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