Merry Christmas to all!

I hope all of you have had a very Merry Christmas with much rest, relaxation and reflection.  This year, I spent Christmas in a small town in Iowa with my husband's family.  Although Pella only has about 12,000 residents, it makes up for in charm what it lacks in amenities.  We had a great time and even got to see a little snow!

Our fun time in Iowa got me to thinking about our neighborhood and what makes Lakewood and Lake Highlands such a great part of Dallas in which to live.  Namely, we are able to live in a small community with tons of charm AND enjoy all the amenities of big city living that Dallas has to offer.  I truly love seeing my friends and neighbors around the 'hood, at our unique local restaurants, helping out at the schools, and of course, at Ellis Orthodontics.  The Ellis family is so blessed and so thankful for all of you that have trusted us with your orthodontic care.

Merry Christmas from Ellis Orthodontics, y'all!

Just do it!

Ah, the holiday season is here once again!  I don't know about you, but I have a love/hate relationship with this time of year.  I LOVE all the decorations, cozy clothes, excitement and anticipation that make the Thanksgiving/ Christmas / New Years season so special.  But I HATE the overwhelming feeling that hits about the morning of the Dallas Marathon, when I look at my to-do list and panic that it will never be done on time.  

Last week I was thinking about how I can approach the holidays differently, to improve the Love part of our relationship and reduce the other part.  My solution - I need to quit worrying about what won't get done and just do it!  Taking my mind off the worries and putting it on the preparation has done wonders to improve my mood this year.  

So how does this relate to orthodontics?  I have come to realize that many of my adult patients have a similar love/hate relationship with the idea of braces.  They love the idea of straight, healthy beautiful teeth but hate the anxiety they feel about braces as an adult.  As an orthodontist who has seen the great benefit that adults can receive from orthodontic care, I encourage anyone considering treatment to put the worries aside and just do it.  I have yet to have any adult tell me they wish they hadn't straightened their teeth - and have lots and lots tell me how glad they are that they did.

I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and happy holiday season.  Ellis Orthodontics is blessed to have so many wonderful patients and colleagues to work with.  We are grateful for your support this year and always.