As summer winds down and the first signs of fall appear—cooler mornings, golden leaves, and the scent of apples in the air—it’s a perfect time to celebrate the season of change. At WAO Orthodontics, we love this time of year. It’s when routines settle, students return to school, and families refocus on goals for the months ahead. September was full of moments that made us grateful for our team, our patients, and our community.
Labor Day Reflections
Labor Day marks a moment to pause, relax, and appreciate the hard work that builds strong communities. For us, it’s also a reminder that smiles take dedication too—every adjustment, every appointment, every ounce of patience adds up to something beautiful. Whether you spent the holiday weekend with family, enjoyed a local event, or simply took a well-earned break, we hope you started September feeling refreshed.
A Team That Brings the Sunshine
Even as days grow shorter, the WAO team keeps the energy high. Our dedicated staff works tirelessly to ensure patients—especially our youngest visitors—feel welcomed and supported. Their expertise, kindness, and attention to detail turn what could be a stressful appointment into something patients look forward to.
The Joy of Young Patients
One of our favorite sights? The excitement on a young patient’s face when they arrive for a visit. Fall often means back-to-school photos and family gatherings, and those special occasions shine even brighter with a confident smile. These early appointments set the stage for long-term dental health, and we love being part of that journey.
Baseball, Community, and Connection
We had a blast at the Giants, Morgan Hill Baseball game, where we got to meet Mayor Mark Turner. Events like these remind us that orthodontics is about more than straight teeth—it’s about being part of a vibrant community. A shared cheer at the ballpark is just as important as a shared laugh in the exam chair.
Spotlight on Dr. Bas Wafelbakker
Dr. Wafelbakker has been transforming smiles since 1985, blending precision with a warm, friendly approach. Inspired by his grandfather’s dental career, he brings both technical expertise and a personal touch to every case. His commitment to continuing education ensures our patients benefit from the latest advancements, including techniques that avoid extractions or surgery whenever possible.
Celebrating International Eat an Apple Day
Nothing says fall like biting into a crisp apple—unless you have braces, in which case, slicing is the way to go. Cutting apples into bite-sized pieces protects your brackets and makes it easier to enjoy seasonal favorites. From tart to sweet, apples are a healthy snack that pairs perfectly with autumn afternoons.
Meet Dr. Chris Anderson
Dr. Anderson joined WAO in 2006 and shares a passion for creating smiles that inspire confidence. His background in biology, dentistry, and orthodontics, along with his role as a professor, means patients benefit from both his deep knowledge and his genuine care. For Dr. Anderson, the joy comes from seeing patients light up when they see their new smile for the first time.
Why Braces Change More Than Your Smile
Braces don’t just align teeth—they improve overall health. A proper bite can prevent uneven wear, reduce jaw pain, and make it easier to keep teeth clean. At WAO, we offer options for every need, from traditional metal braces to discreet Invisalign® aligners.
Hearing from Our Patients
Few things make our day like a heartfelt testimonial. This month, Annabel shared how Erika in our Gilroy office went above and beyond to help her son with a loose wire—gentle, attentive care that reflects our commitment to every patient.
Creativity Counts
We ended the month with National Keep Kids Creative Week, a celebration of imagination and play. Just like crafting a smile, creativity takes vision, patience, and a little fun along the way. Whether it’s building forts, drawing pictures, or making up games, we encourage families to embrace the inventive spirit all year long.
The Retainer Reminder
Your smile journey doesn’t end when the braces come off. Retainers are essential for keeping teeth in their new position and maintaining all the hard work you’ve put in. In some cases, they can even make small adjustments to improve alignment. Think of them as the finishing touch that keeps your smile looking and feeling its best.
As the leaves change, we’re reminded that transformation is always possible—with the right care, commitment, and support. Here’s to a season full of confident smiles and new beginnings.