Choosing an orthodontist is a big decision. It’s not just about straightening teeth; it’s about entrusting your smile—or your child’s smile—to a specialist who understands the complex biology of tooth movement and facial growth. While many providers offer teeth straightening services, there is a significant difference in the level of training and expertise between a general dentist and an orthodontist, backed by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).
At Harris Orthodontics, we are committed to providing top-notch orthodontic care to families in Highland and surrounding communities such as Alpine and Cedar Hills. We believe that every patient deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing their doctor adheres to the highest standards of the profession.
That’s why Dr. Dallin Harris’s alignment with organizations like the AAO is more than just a credential—it’s a promise of quality, safety, and results that last a lifetime.
Key Takeaways
- Commitment to Excellence: We prioritize providing exceptional orthodontic care to Highland and nearby communities, including Alpine and Cedar Hills.
- Patient-Centered Care: Every patient deserves the confidence that comes with receiving treatment from a doctor who upholds the highest professional standards.
- Trusted Expertise: Dr. Dallin Harris’s active membership in organizations like the AAO reflects a dedication to quality, safety, and long-lasting results.
What is the AAO and Why Does It Matter?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is the world’s oldest and largest dental specialty organization. It represents orthodontists who have completed an accredited orthodontic residency program after dental school.
This extra two to three years of specialized education is what sets an orthodontist apart from a general dentist.
Setting the Standard for Care
The AAO isn’t just a club; it’s a rigorous standard-setting body. They provide guidelines on ethics, patient safety, and clinical best practices. According to the AAO, orthodontic treatment involves complex biological processes, including changes in jaw bones, facial bones, and soft tissue as teeth are moved.
Because of this complexity, the AAO recommends that patients seek treatment from a specialist who has the specific training to manage these changes safely and effectively.
Choosing an AAO member ensures that your orthodontist has:
- Graduated from an accredited dental school.
- Completed a graduate program in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics (usually 2-3 years of additional full-time study).
- Committed to lifelong learning to stay current with the latest advances in the field.
When you choose an AAO-backed orthodontist, you are choosing a provider who has dedicated their career to the art and science of moving teeth. This distinction is crucial for ensuring that your treatment plan is not only effective aesthetically but also biologically sound.
Harris Orthodontics: Upholding AAO Standards
At Harris Orthodontics, we don’t just meet the standards set by the AAO; we strive to exceed them every day.
Dr. Dallin Harris is a Board Certified Orthodontist, a distinction held by only a percentage of orthodontists who go a step beyond AAO membership to demonstrate their clinical excellence through rigorous exams administered by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO).
Qualifications You Can Trust
Dr. Harris’s journey to becoming a top-tier provider began with a solid educational foundation. After graduating with high honors from the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, he completed his Orthodontics Residency at The University of Colorado, earning a Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD).
His commitment to excellence is further proven by his status as a top 1% Diamond+ Provider of Invisalign, a recognition reserved for providers with extensive experience and successful case histories.
Advanced Technology for Superior Results
Aligning with AAO standards also means embracing technology that improves patient outcomes. We utilize state-of-the-art tools to ensure precision and comfort:
- iTero® Element™ Digital Impressions: We’ve said goodbye to goopy, uncomfortable molds. Our digital scanner creates a highly accurate 3D model of your teeth in minutes.
- 3D Digital X-Rays: Unlike traditional 2D x-rays, our 3D imaging allows Dr. Harris to see the full structure of the jaw, roots, and bone, enabling him to spot potential issues before they become problems.
- DentalMonitoring: This app allows us to track your progress remotely, saving you time on office visits while ensuring your treatment stays on track.
By combining board-certified expertise with cutting-edge technology, we ensure that our patients in Highland and surrounding areas receive care that is safe, efficient, and effective.
Personalized Treatment Approach
One of the core tenets of high-quality orthodontic care is recognizing that no two smiles are alike.
The AAO emphasizes that "mail-order" orthodontics or one-size-fits-all solutions often fail because they lack the direct supervision of a specialist who can customize the plan to the patient’s specific biology.
Patient-First Philosophy
We take a patient-first approach. Whether you are considering early treatment for your child or seeking to improve your own smile as an adult, we tailor every aspect of the treatment to your lifestyle and goals.
- For Kids: We focus on early intervention to guide jaw growth and prevent more serious problems later.
- For Teens: We offer Invisalign Teen and discreet brace options to help teenagers navigate orthodontic treatment with confidence.
- For Adults: We understand that adults need efficient, aesthetic solutions. From clear aligners to accelerated treatment options, we make it easy to get the smile you’ve always wanted.
Success Stories
Our commitment to personalized care is reflected in the smiles of our patients. We’ve helped countless individuals—from BYU athletes like Will Zundel to busy moms—achieve results they are proud to show off.
By listening to your concerns and customizing your plan, we ensure that the journey to a new smile is as rewarding as the destination.
Community Engagement and Local Expertise
Harris Orthodontics is more than a clinic; we are a part of the community. We are proud to serve families in Highland, Alpine, Cedar Hills, Pleasant Grove, and Eagle Mountain.
We understand the local culture and the needs of our neighbors because we live here, too.
Supporting Our Neighbors
We believe in giving back to the communities that support us. Whether it’s sponsoring local school events, participating in community health initiatives, or simply providing a welcoming environment for our neighbors, we are dedicated to making Utah Valley a better place to live and smile.
Our deep roots in the area mean we understand the logistics of local families. We know you are busy, which is why we offer flexible scheduling and convenient locations to make orthodontic care accessible for everyone in Highland and the surrounding cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why should I choose a Board Certified Orthodontist?
A: Board Certification by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) represents the highest level of commitment to orthodontic excellence. It is a voluntary credential that goes beyond the basic requirements of practice, demonstrating a specialist's dedication to quality patient care.
Q: Do you offer consultations?
A: Yes! We believe everyone should have access to expert advice about their smile. We offer free in-office consultations, as well as virtual consultations for your convenience.
Q: Is Invisalign as effective as braces?
A: In the hands of an experienced provider like Dr. Harris, Invisalign is highly effective for a wide range of orthodontic issues. As a Diamond+ Provider, Dr. Harris has the expertise to treat even complex cases with clear aligners.
Trust Your Smile to an Expert
Your smile is one of your most important assets. Don't leave it to chance. By choosing an orthodontist backed by the AAO and the ABO, you are ensuring that your treatment is guided by the highest standards of safety and professional ethics.
Harris Orthodontics is proud to bring this level of world-class care to Highland, Alpine, Cedar Hills, Pleasant Grove, and Eagle Mountain. If you are ready to experience the difference that expert, personalized care can make, we invite you to join our family.
Ready to start your journey? Schedule your free consultation today or learn more about Dr. Harris’s qualifications.
Author Bio
Dr. Dallin Harris, DDS, MSD
Dr. Dallin Harris is a Board Certified Orthodontist and a top 1% Diamond+ Invisalign Provider. He earned his DDS from the University of the Pacific and his Master of Science in Dentistry from the University of Colorado. Dr. Harris is an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and is dedicated to providing evidence-based orthodontic care to the Highland community. You can view his board certification and professional profile on Healthgrades and U.S. News.