Business Details
32 Years
experience
Expert Orthodontic Care in Omak, WA
Merlin Ekvall DDS MS has been dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic care to patients in the Okanogan Valley since 1994. Our practice combines cutting-edge technology with time-tested methods to deliver personalized treatment plans that address each patient's unique needs. Dr. Merlin Ekvall, a board-certified orthodontist with over 25 years of specialized experience, leads our team in creating beautiful, healthy smiles through innovative solutions like Invisalign, digital X-rays, and advanced braces systems. With a commitment to community service and global health initiatives, we extend our expertise beyond our Omak office through international dental missions. Our team prioritizes patient comfort and education, ensuring every individual feels informed and confident throughout their orthodontic journey. We specialize in treatments for all ages, from early intervention for children to comprehensive care for adults, emphasizing long-term oral health benefits.Our practice maintains active memberships in prestigious organizations such as the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association. Dr. Ekvall's dual master's degrees in orthodontics and public health inform our holistic approach to dental care. We invest in continuous professional development to stay at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. From traditional metal braces to discreet lingual options, we offer solutions that balance aesthetic concerns with functional outcomes. Our mission is to transform lives through smile correction, boosting patients' confidence and overall well-being while maintaining the highest clinical standards.
Services
Traditional Metal Braces
Self-Ligating Braces
Clear Ceramic Braces
Clear Aligners
Lingual Braces
Early Orthodontic Treatment
Adult Orthodontics
Teens Orthodontics
Digital X-Rays
Digital Impressions
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- Dr. Ekvall has specialized orthodontic experience since 1994
- Offers Invisalign and digital impression technology
- Provides comprehensive care for all age groups
- Active in international dental mission work
- Maintains memberships in top professional organizations
Associations and certifications
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontics
- Washington State Society of Orthodontists
- American Dental Association
- Washington State Dental Association
What people say
Great experience
Super friendly staff
Amazing staff
Changed my life
On the honor roll
Services
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces use high-grade stainless steel brackets and archwires to gradually align teeth. Patients can personalize their treatment with colored elastics for a fun aesthetic. This proven method effectively corrects various alignment issues while offering improved comfort compared to older versions.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners provide a discreet orthodontic solution through custom-made, removable plastic trays. These virtually invisible appliances straighten teeth without metal components, allowing normal eating and cleaning routines while maintaining aesthetic appeal during treatment.
Early Orthodontic Treatment
Early intervention for children aged 7-9 addresses jaw growth and bite issues before all permanent teeth erupt. This preventive approach creates space for proper tooth alignment, potentially reducing future treatment complexity and duration for optimal long-term results.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces offer a completely invisible orthodontic solution by attaching customized metal brackets to the back of teeth. Ideal for professionals and image-conscious patients, this option maintains aesthetic appearance while delivering effective tooth movement through personalized appliance design.
Digital Impressions
Digital impression technology replaces traditional putty molds with precise 3D scanning for accurate treatment planning. This comfortable, mess-free process creates detailed tooth and gum images that guide personalized orthodontic solutions with enhanced diagnostic capabilities.
People
Dr. Merlin Ekvall
Orthodontist
Dr. Ekvall earned his dental degree in 1975 and orthodontic specialty certification in 1991. With over 25 years of practice in Omak, he combines technical expertise with global mission experience, having established dental clinics across multiple countries while maintaining active professional memberships.
Brenda
Staff Member
Brenda has been part of Dr. Ekvall's team since 2000, bringing extensive orthodontic experience and a passion for patient care. She enjoys creating welcoming environments and spends her free time outdoors with family activities.
Kim
Staff Member
Kim has worked with Dr. Ekvall since 2007, specializing in patient communication and treatment coordination. She enjoys building relationships with patients while maintaining active interests in gardening and outdoor recreation outside the practice.
Questions
What orthodontic options exist for adults?
We offer clear braces, ceramic braces, self-ligating braces, lingual braces, and invisible aligners specifically designed for adult patients seeking discreet treatment solutions.
How long does orthodontic treatment typically last?
Treatment duration varies between 6-30 months depending on individual cases, with most standard treatments averaging about 22 months for optimal results.
Do braces cause discomfort?
While initial adjustment periods may cause minor discomfort, modern orthodontic technology significantly reduces pain levels compared to traditional methods.
How to maintain oral hygiene with braces?
Brush teeth at least three times daily, floss daily using specialized tools, and attend regular dental checkups every six months for optimal oral health.
What payment options are available?
Please contact our office directly for detailed information about current payment plans and financing options tailored to individual needs.
Can I schedule an initial consultation?
Yes, we welcome new patients to schedule comprehensive initial exams to discuss personalized treatment options and answer all procedural questions.