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

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.

Meet Dr. Doleac

Hello, I’m Dr. Phil Doleac. I started my orthodontic career as a military orthodontist in Germany, Texas, and Alaska. My military service began when I earned my bachelor degree from the United States Military Academy at West Point. While still enlisted in the US Army, I attended the University of Texas Dental School in San Antonio. I then earned my Orthodontic Degree from the University of Missouri in Kansas City in 1981. After nine years as a military orthodontist, I brought my family to Portland to start my private practice.

My wife, Marge, and I have four children. Our son Jason lives in Seattle with his wife, Meredith and their three children Kendal, Carter, and Addison. Our son Michael lives in Park City, Utah. He and his wife, Shannon, have a new baby boy, Taylor. Kenny, our third son, followed in my footsteps and graduated from West Point. He is now serving his second tour in Iraq while commanding a blackhawk helicopter company. Our daughter, Suzanne, graduated from Carroll College in Helena, Montana, with a degree in Biology and French. She is now applying to Medical School. I have tried to convince Suzanne and Michael to change their focus from medicine to dentistry and orthodontics, but they cannot be swayed!

I try to see my family as often as possible, and love it when they participate in outdoor activities with me. I like to golf, fish, snow ski, water ski, bike, work out, and play a little basketball. I am also fascinated by computers and how technology advances, and I love to read.