What’s so special about an Orthodontist? Dr. Doleac Explains

"Dentists, Orthodontists, they're all the same right?" At Magic Smiles we hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Dr. Doleac started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree), just like your dentist. After dental school however, Dr. Doleac decided he wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So he stayed in school for a few more years and became an expert in orthodontics; which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and under bites.

Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).

Isn't it nice to know there's a dental expert here to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

--Dr. Doleac

Dr. Doleac Asks: Are There Teeth Grinders in Your House?

Grind, grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, especially a night grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound. Other symptoms of teeth grinding (technically called “bruxism”) include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

People frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, so taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. Here are some things you can try to stop grinding:

• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
• Relax right before bedtime with a warm bath or shower
• Help your jaw learn to relax by quitting any chewing habits (pens, pencils, gum)
• When clenching or grinding happens during the day, place your tongue between your teeth to serve as a reminder to avoid the habit

If grinding goes untreated, it can lead to chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, make an appointment to see us by calling (503) 255-1694. Dr. Doleac can help determine the cause of the problem and possibly even prescribe a custom mouthpiece to help break the habit.

Is Invisalign® Really Customized for Each Patient? Dr. Phil Doleac

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.



Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Doleac is a Premier Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call at 503-200-2536.

Magic Smiles Patient Testimonials

Dr. Doleac has been building magic smiles in the Portland area for nearly 20 years. Take a look at what some of his patients have said!




Dr. Doleac did a great job, professional but friendly. The office staff does an excellent job, appointments on time, great customer service. ~ Corey B.

Dr. Doleac is very nice and seems very patient. Also the girls that help are nice too and my son really liked all of them on his first visit. Made him very comfortable and not nervous at all. Thanks! ~ Austin Z.

What I like best about Dr. Doleac is his great attitude that he has every time I go to my appointment. He explains everything related to my treatment and answers all the questions I have. The service is EXCELLENT and they are all nice people and very professional. I am very happy about that!!! ~ Fidel F.

Dr. Doleac is very friendly and treats my daughter like she is special, which she needs! ~ Bruce D.

Dr. Doleac is really great - he answers all of my questions and makes sure I understand. ~ Dolores C.