(Through the eyes of a former patient)
MY most unforgettable character is an orthodontist in a very small town (you know the joke sneeze and you miss it), in Northeastern Pennsylvania. His practice would not even be a blip on the radar except for the fact that he has created an ingenious way to straighten teeth and at the same time create balance and symmetry in the patients face. He does not stop there Dr Wachtel begins this process with appliances, ceramics and wire to create an entirely different person. As he moves and adjusts your teeth he has this uncanny ability to connect with the patient. He motivates them to become better in every part if their lives. He inspires confidence. He has great insight into making a person believe in themselves. As we travel through life we lose or possibly never had high self esteem the loss is very gradual and on most days hardly noticeable. Dr Wachtel has the insight to recognize this and knows how to create or restore this quality in the people he meets and treats. Yes, I will give you that he does come on very strong (finger nails on the chalkboard) and makes you want to run as fast and as far as you can go. But, little by little he chips away at the armor that you have manufactured to protect yourself from the world. Out of nowhere you find yourself being more outgoing and facing challenges you would have never considered in the recent past.
Dr. Wachtel’s interest in orthodontics started when he wore braces as a young boy. Fascinated by the way teeth could be moved and adjusted he decided this was the profession he wanted to be a part of. In dental school and the Air Force he was able to observe and hone his talent along with many proficient practitioners. However, Dr Wachtel never satisfied with the norm was sure that there was more one could achieve than just straight teeth he perfected his treatment and used in on himself to be sure that he could indeed make his patients faces more balanced and more attractive. He then started to treat older patients, patients who would have turned away by most orthodontist because of their age. The results are astonishing I know this because I am one of his senior patients. Most people meet their orthodontist at the tender age of twelve; I on the other hand met mine at age 54. Faced with the possibility of losing my beloved teeth or facial paralysis I was fortunate to meet Dr Wachtel. I shudder to think what could have happened if he has not developed his brilliant treatment. Dr Wachtel treats each of his patients personally all adjustments are made by him making the process comfortable for his patients. It is all about the comfort of his patients. His dedication to us is nothing short of amazing. Dr Wachtel is a unique individual who remains true to his belief in creating the best look for his patients but more than that he continues to develop a relationship with his patients that will benefit them for their entire lives. In a world where everyone is in a hurry and no one seems to have five minutes to help and on top of that everyone is afraid of not being politically correct or afraid of crossing the line that we are losing the human touch. That does not happen here, Dr Wachtel cares about the whole you and not just a few ounces of metal and ceramic bracing. Rest assured that kind of intenseness does not come with the gentle ebb and flow it is more like a typhoon and it can sure get your hackles up. But, for those of us who are lucky enough to meet such a person as Dr Wachtel, get to grow and become better and with all hopes we can take this and make someone else’s life better.
AT the end of your treatment you have more than a fresh face and a million dollar smile you have a new lease on life you are more approachable.
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