Perseverance
John H. Huang DMD, MS (August 12, 2010, 12:16 pm)
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“I give up!” How many times have we uttered these three simple words, totally exasperated after struggling with an impossible task, a daunting project or a hopeless child? How often do we find ourselves retreating at the first sign of adversity, showering everyone with excuses for why we took the easy way out? Imagine how our lives would be if everyone took on that passive attitude. If Thomas Edison called it quits after a couple of failed attempts at the electric light bulb, we’d all still be literally living in the dark. Word has it that he tried thousands of different filament designs that did not work before hitting on the proper one. Just think, your next interview could be the one that lands your dream job or your next act of kindness could be what inspires someone else to do the same. In this world, persistence does pay and perseverance gets results. As Albert Einstein once said “It’s not that I’m so smart, it’s just that I stay with problems longer.”
As your orthodontic specialty practice, we believe firmly in the importance of perseverance as we strive to achieve that beautiful smile you have always wanted. We will never compromise on workmanship, always going the extra mile to attain the results you desire. We’ll persevere to work extra hard in order to make your entire orthodontic experience as pleasant as possible.
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Orthodontic Assisting
John H. Huang DMD, MS (June 10, 2010, 12:36 pm)
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Have you ever wondered what it was like to work as an orthodontic clinical assistant? As you may have noticed, our staff plays an integral role in the daily patient care activities of our busy practice. They’re responsible not only for many of the technical procedures involved in adjusting the patient’s braces but also for the personal interaction and care required in achieving that totally positive orthodontic experience. Most of our staff members have been employed with our practice long term with our senior clinical assistants nearing their 15 to 20 year marks. The majority of our staff had no formal training in orthodontics prior to their employment although several of them were promoted from other general dental practices. The work is quite challenging but extremely rewarding—with a competitive salary and benefits and the personal satisfaction of helping others achieve that “smile they’ve always wanted”. Feel free to speak with our staff members about current opportunities within our practice. We look forward to having you on our winning team!
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Hometown Orthodontics
John H. Huang DMD, MS (April 8, 2010, 2:55 pm)
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Over the past couple of years, I’ve had the fantastic opportunity to travel to many different parts of the world. On these cherished occasions I’ve found myself suddenly traipsing through the Cambodian jungle, exploring Incan ruins in Peru, trekking along the picturesque glaciers of New Zealand, in awe of the statues on Easter Island, hiking the canyons of the American West and mesmerized by the array of vibrant colors at the Great Barrier Reef. Although utterly fascinating and intriguing, the one constant of these journeys is the relief of eventually arriving back home to Kentucky. There’s a certain unexplained comfort associated with the familiarity of your home town and the inherent community of your friends and neighbors.
Here at the Kentucky Center for Orthodontics, we want to maintain that home town atmosphere for all our valued patients. All our doctors have strong ties to the state (I grew up in Central Kentucky, Dr. Durbin was actually born in Lexington and Dr. Garner calls Louisville his home town) and we’re all thoroughly familiar with its values, customs and traditions. We realize the importance of treating everyone with respect and courtesy while providing them with the outstanding local service they deserve. We’re keyed into the subtle aspects of community pride and the necessity of continued local economic development. In short, we’re all Kentuckians at heart and we definitely want to be your “Hometown Orthodontic Practice”.
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John H. Huang DMD,MS
The \"Specialty\" of Orthodontics (February 3, 2010, 12:01 pm)
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Just last year, I had to take my daughter in to see a doctor regarding a problem with her eyes. During the examination, I was comforted by the fact that this practitioner had extensive experience in treating all sorts of eye disorders. In fact, as a certified ophthalmologist, that’s all he did—fix people’s eyes. He didn’t profess to have any special knowledge about ears, hearts, lungs, or legs—only eyes. Such is the case with Orthodontics. When you are treated by an orthodontic specialist, you know that you’re benefiting from the unparalleled focused expertise of the practitioner. Here at the Kentucky Center for Orthodontics, we straighten teeth and align jaws—that’s all we do. We’re not distracted (like other general dentists) by having to perform cleanings, fillings, root canals, crowns, bridges or implants. Our education, training and practical experience is focused entirely on your orthodontic treatment and nothing else. We deal solely with aligning your teeth and giving you the best smile possible. Be confident in knowing that you are being taken care of by “specialists” in the true sense of the profession.
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Beauty Queen Smiles
John H. Huang DMD, MS (December 3, 2009, 9:03 am)
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Permit me to brag a little bit about something extraordinary that occurred at the Kentucky Center for Orthodontics this past year. Our practice was blessed to have been associated with both Miss Kentuckys and their fabulous accomplishments in the Miss USA and Miss America Pageants. Both Maria Montgomery (who was third runner up in the national Miss USA contest) and Emily Cox (who won the Quality of Life Award and finished in the top twelve in the national Miss America contest) made us all so proud with their outstanding performances and unmatched grace and poise. I’d like to think their dazzling smiles didn’t hurt either! Congratulations to both Maria and Emily for sharing their experiences with all us folks back home.
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The Cost of Braces
Dr. Huang (October 13, 2009, 2:29 pm)
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Compared to other consumer items, the cost of orthodontic treatment remains a bargain by today’s standards. Did you know that a house currently valued at $150,000 could have been purchased for $15,000 back in 1962? Likewise a brand new $21,000 automobile could have been acquired for a mere $2,500. A movie ticket would have set you back fifty cents, while a large bucket of popcorn would have only cost twenty cents more. Comparatively speaking, the cost of comprehensive orthodontic treatment has increased much less than these items during that same time period. Although still a significant expense for many families, when you take into account the long term cosmetic, health and functional benefits associated with a beautiful smile, orthodontic treatment really is one of the best investments you’ll ever make. Our practice offers some of the most competitive fees in the region together with payment plans customized to meet your individual budgets. Additional insurance benefits could also render the overall cost of orthodontics much lower than you could ever imagine! Schedule an initial consultation with our friendly and knowledgeable treatment coordinators to discuss all your treatment options. We promise your smile will be more valuable today than it was back in 1962.
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Orthodontics in the USA
John H. Huang DMD, MS (August 18, 2009, 3:17 pm)
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I just returned from our annual orthodontic meeting in “Bawston”. Each year, orthodontists from around the world gather together to learn about new procedures, to discover new technologies and to re-network with long lost colleagues. Some of the emphasis this year was on evidenced based research, temporary anchorage devices, functional jaw orthopedics, impacted canines, self ligating appliances, and multidisciplinary care. On the bus ride from the hotel to the convention center, I struck up a conversation with an orthodontist from Saudi Arabia. He spoke so highly of the United States—everything from the outstanding educational facilities, to the leading edge technologies, to the efficient health care delivery systems. He mentioned the scarcity of orthodontists and the many obstacles in providing even the most basic orthodontic services to those in his home country. As I reflected back on our conversation, I realized that too often we take our circumstances for granted. We frequently gripe about the inefficiency, the high cost of and the lack of access to health care in America. Our health care system may not be perfect, but in regard to the orthodontic profession, I challenge you to find one that provides better professional training and quality of care.
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Dr. Douglas D. Durbin
August 4, 2009, 5:25 pm
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Hello Everyone,
To TOTALLY "re-invent" our website was a LOT of time, trouble and effort, but with all the cool stuff added (informational and educational videos), we think you'll LOVE IT!!
From Facial Orthopedics, to Herbst Appliance, to InvisAlign, to Colored Braces, we have it ALL. We REALLY look forward to helping you achieve your dream smile!
your initial consultation is absolutely "no-charge" to you AND we have "virtual" malocclusions online to "self-diagnose". Click on the Treatment Tab and then the Common Problems button; there, you will find virtually every possible orthodontic diagnosis right there on line for you to match with your own concerns. Then, you may "choose your look" (InvisAlign, Clear Braces, Traditional metal with colors, etc.)
You're going to LOVE your new look! Come see us soon!
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Giving Back
John H. Huang DMD, MS (May 12, 2009, 6:20 pm)
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Did you know that nearly one half of the people in the world live on less than two dollars a day? As we struggle with skyrocketing food costs, rising living expenses and dwindling savings accounts, it's easy to forget those that are less fortunate than us. Although our circle of influence may not necessarily extend to everyone across the globe, we can still touch the lives of many people in our local community. The orthodontic profession is known for its altruism and philanthropy, frequently giving back to the community it serves. Many practices participate in community service projects, discount their orthodontic fees, care for Medicaid recipients, provide free treatment and give generously to special social and educational causes. We all have a soft spot in our hearts--especially for our home towns and neighborhoods. What are you doing in your own personal and work lives to enrich those around you?
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Invisalign
John H. Huang DMD, MS (March 10, 2009, 6:19 pm)
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Did you know that you can now straighten your teeth without having to wear traditional braces? By simply utilizing a series of clear plastic aligners, you can finally achieve that beautiful smile you've always wanted. The Kentucky Center for Orthodontics was one of the first orthodontic specialty practices to be certified using this brand new technology and our doctors and staff continue to be leaders in this rapidly advancing field. With the recent development of Invisalign Teen, even teen-agers can now take advantage of this "braces free" way to perfect your smile. Furthermore, as one of the largest orthodontic practices in the state, we're also able to offer unique financing options, keeping our treatment fees low, while passing the savings directly to the patient. So whether you're fourteen or forty, why not give us a call and see if Invisalign is right for you.
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Celebrity Braces
John H. Huang DMD, MS (January 22, 2009, 6:18 pm)
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Happy New Year! I was watching the Presidential Inauguration on television the other day. After basking in the grandeur of such a significant moment, I caught myself wondering if President Barack Obama's smile was the product of an Orthodontist's handiwork. I immediately began searching the web and was unable to come up with a definitive answer on whether our new President ever had braces or not. However, a by-product of my curiosity search included a list of celebrities who did indeed have orthodontic treatment at some point in their lives. The list includes many athletes (Brett Favre, Sam Bowie, Venus Williams, Hale Irwin, Carl Lewis, Jason Kidd, Anna Kournikova, Annika Sorenstam, Tracey Austin, Terrell Davis, Scott Hamilton, Martina Hingis, Bobby Hurley, Nancy Kerrigan, David Robinson, Monica Seles), actors and actresses (Drew Barrymore, Warren Beatty, Carol Burnett, Claire Danes, Cameron Diaz, Phyllis Diller, Linda Evans, Whoopi Goldberg, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Ashley Judd, Jack Klugman, Janet Leigh, Heather Locklear, Alyssa Milano, Tamera and Tia Mowry), musicians and singers (Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani, Lee Ann Womack, Cher) and professional models (Tyra Banks, Cindy Crawford, Angie Harmon, Paulina Porizkova, Nikki Taylor). Other famous "Braces Alumni" include psychologist Dr. Joyce Brothers, presidential daughters Amy Carter and Chelsea Clinton, Princess Diana and Prince Harry. It seems like everybody-including the President of the United States-can certainly benefit from a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.
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CSI
John H. Huang DMD, MS (November 5, 2008, 6:16 pm)
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The specialty of forensic dentistry has become quite recognized since the popularity of such television shows touting the scientific merits of DNA testing, hair fiber matching, and bite mark registration. Did you know that the forensic dentist is frequently one of the first people called to the scene-especially in cases involving mass casualties such as airplane crashes, natural disasters, and terrorist bombings? The structures of the human mouth, particularly the teeth and jaw bones, possess very specific and unique features which can help in positively identifying crime and accident victims. Each individual tooth has its own distinctive markings, each individual filling is different, and each person's bite and tooth alignment can be as exclusive as one's signature. By comparing the victim's current dentition to those of previously taken dental records, the forensic dentist plays an instrumental role in the overall investigation. Remember, your teeth can often be as unique as your fingerprints!
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Olympics
John H. Huang DMD, MS (August 28, 2008, 6:13 pm)
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Like many of you, I've been tuned in to the Beijing Olympics these past couple of weeks. Not only I have I been captivated by Michael Phelps and his eight Olympic gold medals, but I've also been fascinated by all the television broadcasting technology and gadgetry. Just in the swimming venue alone, I've witnessed underwater cameras, digital lane indicators with a synthesized flag of the competitor's country, split times accurate to hundredths of a second, and a digital world record indicator line that moves in synch with the swimmers. As I'm taking in all this technological wizardry, I'm reminded of all the recent advancements in our orthodontic profession. Just in the last decade alone, we've been introduced to cosmetic braces, invisible aligners, space age-heat activated archwires, mini-implants, and nearly invisible bonded retainers-all to make the overall orthodontic experience that much more patient friendly. No longer do our patients have to struggle with unsightly bands or awkward headgear. Just like the Olympics, we're always striving to bring the benefits of technology closer to those who participate.
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Overcoming Adversity
John H. Huang DMD, MS (July 9, 2008, 6:26 pm)
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Recently I attended the Kentucky Dental Association annual meeting in Louisville and had the pleasure of listening to Sgt. First Class (Ret.) Dana Bowman give a very inspirational presentation about overcoming adversity. As a member of the Army's Special Forces and the elite Golden Knights Parachute Team, Dana was injured in a freak skydiving accident in which he tragically lost both of his legs. Nine months after the accident, he turned his tragedy into triumph by becoming the first double amputee to re-enlist in the United States Army. He has since gone on to scuba dive, snow ski, and fly helicopters, defying all the traditional limits set forth by the human mind and body. Although none of us ordinary individuals are likely to be double amputees, we probably all do possess some type of comparable personal disability-something that is unique to ourselves that we must strive to overcome every single day. How inspiring it was to listen to Dana's story, discovering the unimaginable power of the human spirit and the miracles we can accomplish in spite of our individual weaknesses. For more on Dana Bowman, visit his website at www.danabowman.com.
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Championship Orthodontics
John H. Huang DMD, MS (May 7, 2008, 6:25 pm)
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As a youngster growing up in Kentucky, my passion was following the University of Kentucky Basketball Wildcats. I vividly remember the vicarious joy of witnessing many big wins, conference championships, final fours, and the 1978 NCAA championship. As I reflect back upon the glory days, I realize that all those victories didn't just happen by chance. Through hard work, vigorous discipline, repetitive practice, and perfectionistic attention to detail, a consistent winning team was put on the court every year. The players didn't always appreciate the hard practices or the sharp criticism during preseason workouts, but at the end of the year, everyone took pride in being the "best of the best".
Our goal here at the Kentucky Center for Orthodontics is to be the Kentucky Wildcats of the orthodontic profession. We constantly challenge our staff members to excel in all aspects of their job performance. We always utilize the most leading edge technologies and materials, and our doctors strive to produce the best possible treatment results for our patients. The satisfaction of always going above and beyond the call of duty will ultimately be rewarded with that championship trophy of a happy patient, an enthusiastic staff, and a job well done. Come witness our team in action. I think you'll be impressed.
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A Career in Orthodontics
John H. Huang DMD, MS (March 13, 2008, 6:23 pm)
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Few careers are as rewarding as Orthodontics--a health care profession characterized by interpersonal patient relationships, stimulating technical challenges, and predictable financial stability. My personal quest to become an orthodontic specialist began after high school. I attended college, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree. Afterwards, it was four years of dental school (Doctor of Dental Medicine degree) followed by an additional three years of graduate orthodontic education (Master of Science degree and orthodontic specialty certificate). Eleven years of college may sound quite overwhelming at first but taken one step at a time becomes quite manageable especially when keeping your long term goals in mind. Remember that even the longest journey begins with a single step. I would encourage anyone with an interest in Orthodontics to observe an orthodontist in action. Learn as much as you can about the day to day operations of the practice. Dental School and Ortho School can be extremely competetive so any activities on your resume that distinguish you from others will no doubt be helpful. A genuine compassion for community service and making good grades certainly won't hurt either. Our practice offers many opportunities for shadowing and observation. Why not get a jump start on becoming an orthodontist--one of the best jobs in the whole world.
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A Satisfying Profession
John H. Huang DMD, MS (February 2, 2008, 6:22 pm)
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One of the great things about being an Orthodontist is watching your patients "grow up" right before your eyes. I recently had a patient who was in braces during his teenage years come back for his 10 year retainer check. In addition to having grown about a foot, he also had a wife, a new baby, and a promising job. Just as importantly, he attributed all his success to his still beautiful smile. In fact, many of our former patients have gone on to successful careers in business, politics, sports, and entertainment. We've had doctors, lawyers, actors and actresses, pageant winners, and even dentists and ORTHODONTISTS! It is fantastically rewarding to be able to play a small part in other people's success. If you're interested in learning more about careers in dentistry and orthodontics, check back with me next month for some personal experiences and hints.
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The Language of Smiles
John H. Huang DMD, MS (January 5, 2008, 6:21 pm)
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Hello,
I'd also like to welcome everyone to The Kentucky Center for Orthodontics. We know you have a choice and we're extremely grateful that you've chosen our practice to provide you with that smile that will last a lifetime. I promise, we'll take great care of you.
Recently on a trip to Asia, I struck up a conversation with a young lady with braces on her teeth. I casually mentioned that I was an orthodontist back in the United States and she just went on and on in her broken English about how great her braces were. She raved about how you no longer had to put up with the unsightly bands and the stiff painful archwires of the past. It seems that people all over the world are taking advantage of the available technology to improve the overall quality of their smiles. Apparently a beautiful smile is the same in any language.
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Douglas D. Durbin DMD, MSD
January 1, 2008, 6:27 pm
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Hi Everyone!
Hope you liike our new look! We're very proud of it. Happy New Year!
We look forward to making your smile the most beautiful in the universe, well maybe just the Earth!
Dr. Durbin
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