Baker Orthodontics

David M. Baker, DMD

For People Who Love to Smile

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Why Choose Dr. Baker and Baker Orthodontics?
  2. What age should my child first see an orthodontist?

Why Choose Dr. Baker and Baker Orthodontics?

Dr. David Baker will never admit it, but he is a unique orthodontist. Children and adults find him easy to relate to, and they appreciate his enthusiasm and unassuming demeanor. His exams are comprehensive, yet he clearly walks you through each step and explains treatment options in easy-to-understand language.

Dr. Baker’s treatment style is unique. He is one of a select few orthodontists from around the country who have received advanced training to offer The Six Elements of Oro-facial Harmony. After Dr. Baker earned his doctorate at OHSU School of Dentistry and completed his orthodontic residency at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, DC, he continued his training with one of the world’s foremost orthodontic clinicians.

The Six Elements is an innovative style of orthodontic treatment that creates harmony and balance between your teeth, jaws, and face. What this means for you is that Dr. Baker not only straightens your teeth and corrects the bite, but he also knows how your jaws should be positioned for optimal health, comfort, and aesthetics. He really understands the “tough” cases and how to work with kids who have cleft lip/cleft palate and craniofacial deformities. This is one of many reasons why, in addition to private practice, he has been the Consulting Orthodontist for the Portland Shriner’s Hospital Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Team since 2005.

Dr. Baker also uses The Six Elements to diagnose and eliminate concerns such as a “gummy smile”, protruding chin, overbite, underbite, lack of chin, narrow smile, and creates very pleasing aesthetic results for patients.

When you go to Baker Orthodontics you’ll experience a relaxed and fun atmosphere. The practice gives patients an opportunity to participate in monthly contests, and Baker Orthodontics sponsors events in the community. You’ll find that Dr. Baker and his team promptly answer questions, which means you never feel lost in the shuffle. Please read some of the Patient Testimonials or simply give Baker Orthodontics a call and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

What age should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist no later than age seven. By this age the adult first molars and central incisors are usually in and the jaw growth and facial balance can be evaluated. Most children at this age will not need any treatment. However, early treatment may allow some patients to avoid future surgery or other serious complications.

VANCOUVER · 3425 SE 192nd Ave., Suite 120 · Vancouver, WA · 98683 · (360) 891-6500

PORTLAND · 1585 SW Marlow Ave., Suite 216 · Portland, OR · 97225 · (503) 292-9192