Meet Your Fargo Orthodontist

Dr. David Duevel
Dr. Michael Keim

Dr. David Duevel

“Orthodontics is an incredible specialty, and I feel fortunate to be a part of the profession. It is gratifying to see the changes we can provide daily, and it is always satisfying to watch as a patient's self-confidence grows as we progress through treatment.

One of my main goals as a clinician is that patients are well-informed of their diagnosis and are given the resources to make a fully informed decision on how they would like to proceed with treatment. Successful orthodontic outcomes rely on a trusting relationship between the practitioner and the patient. I aim to ensure that all questions are answered so that no surprises arise during treatment.

Although orthodontic treatment can take many months, it does allow us to get to know and build relationships with our patients and their family members. It is those relationships that truly make practicing orthodontics so enjoyable.”

~ David Duevel, DDS, MS

Dr. Michael Keim

“I’ve practiced orthodontics since 1988 and still thoroughly enjoy my time at the office. It is a pleasure to work alongside staff who have become my family as we change smiles for people who become part of our extended family!

I was drawn to the profession after personally experiencing the tremendous changes and improvements that come with a smile you’re proud to share.

Orthodontics has long been and remains a passion in my life: being part of a person’s life-changing journey as we straighten their teeth and transform their smile is deeply rewarding.

For over 30 years, I’ve had the honor of watching people change over the course of treatment. Regardless of their age – a child, teen, parent, or grandparent – each person gains more comfort with their appearance, and with that comes an increase in their confidence.

The best day, for me, is when a patient finishes treatment and their new smile is revealed. Looking back at the improvement in their teeth, and seeing how proud the person is with what we’ve accomplished, is professionally and personally gratifying.”

Michael Keim, DDS, MS

How orthodontists and dentists differ

While orthodontists and dentists have similar backgrounds, the two professions are actually quite different. In fact, all orthodontist are trained as dentists first, but in addition to completing dental school to become a dentist, orthodontists continue their education for a few additional years to earn the license and certification necessary to be considered an orthodontist. That means that orthodontists have spent years studying nothing but how and why to move teeth. That education includes what to do, how to plan and how to execute the appropriate treatment plan for patients' unique cases.

Why seeing an orthodontist matters

If you're hoping to achieve a beautiful, straight forever smile that you can feel confident in, it's important that you see an orthodontist to help guide you on your journey. This is because the additional training that orthodontists undergo helps them develop the skills necessary to diagnose and treat more complex orthodontic cases. Dentists also receive basic orthodontic training which enables them to perform root canals, extract wisdom teeth and treat young children who do not need to see an orthodontist yet.

Seeing your Fargo orthodontist may change your experience in braces by:

  • Providing additional treatment options.
  • Giving you more efficient treatment and visits, because it is the office's primary area of care.
  • Knowing that you'll receive the best possible outcome on your treatment plan, especially if you have severe bite problems that need to be addressed.
  • Personal experience treating multiple cases that share your unique concerns
  • Being seen more quickly, as a family dentist will be focused on longer patient cases or emergencies throughout the day.
  • You may think it's easier to have your orthodontic work completed by your dentist. Convenience shouldn't be a concern, because you will only be stopping by your Fargo orthodontist's office every six to eight weeks.

 

And don't let price be a problem either! Fargo Orthodontics is proud to provide affordable treatment in the Fargo area.