Choosing an orthodontist is a significant decision for any family. It’s not just about straightening teeth; it’s about entrusting a professional with your child’s oral development or your own smile transformation. In a bustling city like Columbus, Ohio, where options abound, discerning families are looking for a practice that combines clinical excellence with genuine care.
At A Winning Smile Orthodontics, we understand that trust is earned, not given. Led by Dr. Catherine Scheurer McDevitt, our practice has served the Worthington and greater Columbus area for over 20 years. We believe that the foundation of a healthy smile lies in evidence-based treatment and a personalized approach that treats every patient like family.
Below, we explore why so many of your neighbors choose A Winning Smile Orthodontics for their care, and how we align our practices with the highest standards in the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Adherence to National Guidelines: We strictly follow protocols set by the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).
- Early Intervention Matters: We support the AAO recommendation for orthodontic evaluations by age 7.
- Comprehensive Care: From traditional metal braces to clear aligners, we offer a full spectrum of treatments tailored to individual needs.
- Local Expertise: Dr. Catherine Scheurer McDevitt is a board-certified specialist with deep roots in the Columbus community.
Aligning with Dental Authorities for Your Safety
In the age of DIY dentistry and mail-order aligners, professional oversight has never been more critical. “Expertise” isn’t just a buzzword for us; it is the cornerstone of our practice.
We align our clinical decisions with the rigorous standards set by the leading authorities in dental health: the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).
The Importance of Early Evaluation
One of the most common questions we hear from parents is, “When should my child see an orthodontist?”
We follow the specific guidelines from the American Association of Orthodontists, which recommends that children receive their first orthodontic check-up no later than age 7.
According to the AAO, by this age, “children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth,” which allows an orthodontist to diagnose and correct tooth and jaw problems sooner and without surgery.
How We Apply This:
At A Winning Smile Orthodontics, we offer early orthodontic evaluations to monitor your child’s growth. While many children won’t need treatment immediately, this early screening allows Dr. Catherine to identify issues like crossbites, severe crowding, or jaw discrepancies.
By intervening at the optimal time—often referred to as “Phase I Treatment”—we can guide jaw growth, lower the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth, and potentially simplify future treatment.
Evidence-Based Treatment Planning
The ADA emphasizes the importance of evidence-based dentistry, which integrates the best available scientific evidence with clinical expertise and patient values. We don’t chase fads; we use methods that are proven to work.
Whether it is the material used in our ceramic braces or the specialized software used to plan clear aligner treatment, every tool in our office is selected for its safety and efficacy.
Comprehensive Orthodontic Services
Every smile is unique, and so is every treatment plan. Unlike corporate clinics that may push a “one-size-fits-all” product, a private practice allows for a wider range of customized solutions.
We offer comprehensive services designed to fit different lifestyles and clinical needs.
Clear Aligners
For many teens and adults, the aesthetic of the appliance is a major factor. We offer clear aligners as an effective alternative to traditional brackets. These removable trays are virtually invisible and allow for easier brushing and flossing.
Whether using Invisalign® or Clarity™ aligners from 3M, Dr. Catherine oversees the movement of your teeth to ensure the biological forces applied are safe and effective.
Traditional and Ceramic Braces
Metal braces remain the gold standard for treating complex orthodontic issues. Modern metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than those of the past.
For patients who need the reliability of fixed appliances but want a more discreet look, we also offer translucent ceramic braces. These blend naturally with the color of your teeth, offering a fantastic balance between aesthetics and performance.
Retainers and Post-Treatment Care
Orthodontics doesn’t end when the braces come off. Stability is key.
We provide robust retention protocols to ensure your new smile lasts a lifetime, protecting the investment you’ve made in your oral health.
Why Columbus Families Trust Us
Beyond clinical skills, the “feeling” of a practice matters.
We are proud to be a staple in the Columbus community, serving families from Worthington, Dublin, Lewis Center, and Westerville.
Personalized, One-on-One Care
In many large, corporate dental chains, you might see a different doctor at every visit. At A Winning Smile Orthodontics, you receive continuity of care.
Dr. Catherine personally oversees your progress at every appointment. This consistency ensures that no detail is missed and that your treatment stays on track.
A Reputation Built on Results
We let our patients do the talking. The feedback from our community highlights our commitment to gentle care and fantastic outcomes.
“Dr. Catherine and her team are amazing! I had traditional adult braces for a little over 2 years, and every visit was friendly and informative. I felt like I was in the best hands possible… I have a new smile that I can be proud of!”
— Alexis Morgan, Columbus Patient
“I have met a lot of orthodontists… and I can say a lot of them was more about money, but I could say Dr. Catherine was more about results. She truly care about making sure I had a good smile.”
— Tyesha Simpson, Columbus Patient
A Family-Friendly Environment
We know that visiting the orthodontist can be nerve-wracking for some children. Our office is designed to be warm and welcoming.
From the front desk staff who know you by name to the comforting chairside manner of our clinical assistants, we strive to make every visit a positive experience.
Meet Dr. Catherine Scheurer McDevitt
The quality of your care is directly related to the training of your specialist. Dr. Catherine Scheurer McDevitt is an orthodontic specialist with over 20 years of experience serving the Columbus area.
Her educational background exemplifies her dedication to excellence:
- Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Massachusetts.
- Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania.
- Orthodontic Residency completed at The Ohio State University.
Dr. Catherine is not just a practitioner; she is a lifelong learner. She maintains active memberships with the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), the Great Lakes Association of Orthodontics, and the American Dental Association (ADA). By regularly attending continuing education courses, she stays at the forefront of orthodontic technology and techniques.
Outside the office, she is a proud resident of the greater Columbus area, enjoying time with her three sons and exploring the nature that makes Ohio beautiful.
Learn more about Dr. Catherine’s credentials on AAO.
FAQ
Q: Do I need a referral from a dentist to see an orthodontist?
A: No, you do not need a referral to schedule a consultation with us. While many dentists refer patients to our office, you are welcome to contact us directly if you have concerns about your smile.
Q: What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
A: While all orthodontists are dentists, not all dentists are orthodontists. An orthodontist like Dr. Catherine has completed an additional 2-3 years of specialized residency training specifically in the movement of teeth and jaw alignment after dental school.
Q: Are clear aligners as effective as braces?
A: For many patients, yes. Clear aligners are highly effective for treating mild to moderate crowding and spacing issues. However, complex bite issues may still be best treated with traditional braces. Dr. Catherine will recommend the best tool for your specific case.
Final Thoughts
Your smile is one of your most valuable assets. When it comes to orthodontic treatment, you deserve a partner who values safety, utilizes proven methods, and genuinely cares about your family’s well-being. By adhering to the high standards of the ADA and AAO and providing personalized, compassionate service, A Winning Smile Orthodontics has earned the trust of families across Columbus.
If you are ready to explore your orthodontic options, we invite you to experience the difference of a specialist’s care.
Schedule your consultation today by visiting A Winning Smile Orthodontics or calling us at (614) 888-8070.
