At The Brace Place, our Claremore and Tulsa orthodontist Dr. Patel gives patients fantastically straight teeth and healthy bites. Beyond the practice, he’s also a dad, Guns N’ Roses fan and hamburger aficionado. Who knew the doctor behind The Brace Place was rocking out to metal? To help you get to know Dr. Patel a little better and see what other fun facts we could uncover about him, we decided to put together some questions for him. Here’s our Q&A with Tulsa orthodontist Dr. Patel:
Did you ever wear braces?
Yes! I wore braces while in my third year in dental school. I’m actually currently in Invisalign treatment to align my lower front teeth and to really understand the process and what it’s like for patients since we’re a growing Invisalign practice.
Why did you decide to become an orthodontist?
I love making a positive difference in people’s confidence and self esteem, so a career as an orthodontist was a great fit. I also love being home with the family in the evenings and on weekends since there aren’t a lot of after-hours emergencies in orthodontics.
What do you love most about being a dad?
Some of my favorite things about being a dad are playing sports with my two boys, watching TV shows and movies with them and going out to dinner and talking with them about school and friends.
How would you describe yourself in five words?
I’m restless, happy, energetic, passionate and people-loving.
What was the first concert you ever went to?
The first concert I went to was Guns N’ Roses in Austin, Texas back in 1991 when I was in college.
What sets you apart from other orthodontists?
I treat my patients like family and really get to know them. I’m not worried about my bottom line. Instead, my focus is on achieving the best treatment outcome I can for each patient.
Is there anything your patients would be surprised to learn about you?
I eat a chocolate long john from QT two to three times a week before heading to work. I had a cockatiel bird named Romeo growing up who never stayed in his cage. Also, I absolutely love eating a really good hamburger.
What’s the best part about coming to work at The Brace Place in Tulsa and Claremore every day?
The best parts about coming in to work at The Brace Place every day are the interactions and nice routine I have with patients and having team members who actually want to be there and are dedicated to offering amazing care.
What is the most important piece of advice you can give patients regarding orthodontic treatment?
I always tell my patients to pretend the braces or aligners aren’t on or a normal part of their daily life (other than making sure to brush their teeth at least twice a day) and the 18 to 24 months of treatment will fly by.
What’s the most amazing view you’ve ever seen?
The most amazing view I’ve ever seen was an Alaskan glacier during a port adventure on an Alaskan cruise. Unfortunately, they seem to be melting way too quickly.
Who are your three favorite bands?
My three all-time favorites are The Killers, Guns N’ Roses and Coldplay, although some of my current favorites are NF and Post Malone.
What do you think is the biggest benefit your patients get from achieving straight teeth with braces or Invisalign?
No doubt, in my opinion, the biggest benefit of straight teeth is improved self-esteem. I truly believe confidence – not arrogance – can take you places.
What’s your favorite way to spend the weekend with your family?
I love Saturday night dinner at home with my family and watching our favorite TV shows, a movie or a great college football game.
If you could be a professional athlete, what sport would you choose to compete in?
I would be a pro golfer or an NBA basketball player!
What’s your favorite gift you’ve ever received?
Definitely my Ping golf bag I got from my wife and kids for Father’s Day eight or ten years ago.
What’s on your bucket list?
Going to India with my family and helping feed an orphanage for a day is on my bucket list.
What was the most challenging part of your orthodontic training?
To graduate from orthodontic residency, I had to complete a thesis. It was a huge challenge getting enough data to finish it.
Want to get to know Dr. Patel in person and find out how he can bring out the best in your smile with orthodontic treatment? Book a free consultation with our Claremore and Tulsa orthodontist today! Schedule your visit at The Brace Place online or by giving us a call at (918) 749-8817 (Tulsa) or (918) 342-1240 (Claremore).
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