1 - TREATMENT PHILOSOPHY
The most natural way of treatment is often the best way. We strongly believe that keeping all the permanent teeth is important to achieve a healthy and balanced smile and facial structure in the long term. This is why our approach to orthodontics is to minimize the extraction of teeth. When indicated, we work to modify a child's growth pattern while they are still young to minimize the need for surgery or more invasive treatment later.
2 - BOARD CERTIFICATION
Both Dr. Gorton and Dr. Schmohl have taken the extra steps to become certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. The purpose of The American Board of Orthodontics is to establish and maintain the highest standards of clinical excellence in orthodontics. Only about 35% of all U.S. Orthodontists are board certified.
3 - TREATMENT TECHNIQUES
We are currently the only orthodontic office in the area using a diode laser to improve patient comfort and enhance treatment results. Also, we were the first office in Marin to routinely use low exposure, digital cone beam 3D X-Ray technology to optimize our diagnosis and treatment planning. Almost a decade ago, we pioneered the use of "friction free" braces for use in our more challenging cases, whereas many offices are just discovering them now. These are just some examples of a variety of new technologies and treatment approaches backed by the latest research. Also we are part of a national, invitation-only group of orthodontists who significantly influence future product development and treatment approaches in orthodontics.
4 - TWO DOCTOR INVOLVEMENT
With 3 patient chairs and 2 full-time doctors working simultaneously, our patients receive an exceptionally high level of doctor attention and involvement during their treatment. Our doctor to patient ratio is almost unheard of in modern orthodontics.
5 - CONTINUING EDUCATION
To complement their solid educational background at UC Berkely, Harvard, UCSF and Case Western, our doctors seek to continuously improve themselves by attending several weeks per year of continuing education courses. Additionally, they have the honor of being invited to several nationally recognized study groups and international forums which enables them to provide an unusually high level of care to their patients.
Dr. Gorton's Bio / Dr. Schmohl's Bio
6 - TEAM SPIRIT
The majority of our team members have worked together for over 10 years, which creates a harmonious environment. This allows us to focus our attention on the patients and use everyone's skill set to maximize patient benefit.
7 - FAMILY FOCUSED ATMOSPHERE
We strive for a relaxed atmosphere that makes our patients feel comfortable. Parents, siblings and friends are welcome to join the patient in the treatment area. Family members can also enjoy a wide variety of books and magazines, or the latest video games provided in the reception area. Family and friends who have waited patiently during the appointment are welcome to a prize from the patient prize basket. We even welcome the family dog(s) to hang out on our front patio or back deck.
8 - EXPERIENCE
The experience of having successfully treated several thousand patients has allowed us to fine tune our diagnostic skills and has provided us with insight on the most effective treatment approaches. Also our doctors have been recognized as one of the top 2% Invisalign providers (invisible braces) in the nation, treating more cases then any other office in Marin, San Francisco and Santa Rosa. We apply this extensive experience with invisible braces and other appliances to help you achieve the most beautiful smile possible. See before and after cases
9 - BALANCE
With two doctors working together, our patients have the benefit of two doctors' input for both treatment planning decisions and the actual clinical treatment itself. This creates a natural balance between male and female perspectives and between years of experience and involvement in the latest research. Also, Dr. Gorton is conversationally fluent in Spanish, French and German.
10 - AVAILABILITY
Unlike most orthodontic offices, we are available all weekdays, Monday through Friday to better accommodate our patients' busy after school and working schedules.
11 - COMMUNITY SUPPORT
We believe in a strong community so we do our part to support institutions that provide healthy outlets that have a positive impact on our patients. We support our local schools and sponsor several athletic teams and academic scholarships as well as enrichment programs.
