Dr. Colleen Nguyen of Gentle Touch Dentistry: Care Beyond Dentistry

November 1, 2023

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Story by Jeanie Edgmon

For Dr. Colleen Nguyen of Gentle Touch Dentistry, dentistry is not just about oral care. It is an exciting and multifaceted world of technological advancements that support dental artistry and profoundly improve general health. It is a world where the pursuit of continued education provides dentists with the unbridled and humbling opportunity to provide patients with the most significant levels of care.

A Dental Legacy: Nurtured by Family and Tradition

Dr. Nguyen’s path to becoming a dentist was deeply rooted in her family’s tradition of healthcare. Growing up, both of her parents were prominent figures in the medical field, creating an environment where healthcare discussions were commonplace. It was a childhood immersed in the world of medicine that laid the foundation for her future in dentistry.

However, the pivotal moment in her journey came during her high school years when her brother embarked on his dental school adventure.

“I had the unique opportunity to shadow him, observing the intricacies of dental practice up close, and this solidified my decision,” she shared.

It was during this experience that the seeds of her passion for dentistry were sown. She recognized that dentistry was a harmonious blend of science, artistry, and the power to transform lives, and she knew it was her calling.

A Vision of Holistic Dentistry

Becoming a dentist was just the beginning for Dr. Nguyen. As she delved deeper into her profession, the more she realized there was so much more to know. This was reinforced when her own children were found to have sleep-disordered breathing (SDB).

“When I found that dentistry could play a role in correcting, preventing, or lessening the severity of sleep apnea in children, I made it my mission to focus on whole-body wellness at my practice.”

Sleeping Soundly: A Focus on Whole-Body Wellness

One distinctive feature of Gentle Touch Dentistry is its expertise in screening and treating obstructive sleep apnea in both adults and children. Equipped with low exposure radiation 3D cone beam technology, the clinic can detect potential problems early, emphasizing the advanced digital imaging critical link between proper sleep and overall health. In addition, they employ Waterlase technology that offers gentler treatments, promoting faster healing for patients.

Dr. Nguyen is one of less than 400 dentists worldwide to complete a rigorous post-doctoral curriculum and earn accreditation as a practitioner of Bioesthetic Dentistry, Advanced Education in TMJ, Occlusion & Sleep Apnea.

Innovative Solutions: Beyond Traditional Dentistry

Dr. Nguyen’s commitment to innovation extends to the services offered at Gentle Touch Dentistry. Patients can now benefit from Botox and dermal fillers for issues like bruxism and clenching, not only improving smiles but enhancing overall well-being. For those intolerant of CPAP therapy, alternative treatments for obstructive sleep apnea are available.

The Artistry of Cosmetic Dentistry: Where Form Meets Function

In Dr. Nguyen’s eyes, a harmonious jaw and facial growth are the keys to a beautiful smile. Porcelain veneers, offered at Gentle Touch Dentistry, provide an ideal solution for patients seeking a complete smile makeover.

Dentistry with a Difference

Gentle Touch Dentistry takes pride in being an amalgam-free practice, prioritizing the use of safe and aesthetically pleasing materials for restorative procedures.

To enhance patient comfort, the practice has in-house digital scanning technology, iTero, which replaces traditional impressions that many patients find uncomfortable.

Furthering the convenience, they offer clear aligners such as Invisalign and SureSmile. The practice also offers dental implants using an innovative minimally invasive approach.

The Reward of Transforming Lives

When asked about the most rewarding aspect of her work, Dr. Nguyen’s face lights up. It’s the moments when a parent shares how her practice has positively impacted their child’s craniofacial growth and development, often when no one else could help. It’s these transformative stories that fuel her passion and drive for excellence.

Bioesthetic Dentistry: A Unique Approach

One of Dr. Nguyen’s specialties is Bioesthetic Dentistry. This innovative approach focuses on diagnosing the root causes of tooth wear and other issues within the chewing system, rather than merely treating symptoms. The goal is to establish perfect harmony within the entire chewing system, promoting a healthy airway and restoring teeth to their optimal shape and relationship, resulting in a beautiful, highly functional, and enduring smile.

A Commitment to Lifelong Learning

Dr. Nguyen’s dedication to continued education is unwavering. She believes that staying current with the latest advancements is essential to provide the best possible care for her patients. Her extensive training from renowned institutions across the country reflects her commitment to excellence.

After graduating with honors from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, she additionally trained with world-renowned leaders in the field including The Dawson Center, The Schuster Center, for Professional Development, Orognathic Bioesthetic International (OBI) Foundation, the Hornbrook Group, Airway Sleep and Pediatric (ASAP) Pathway, Dental Sleep Solutions, RightSleep, Pacific Training Institute for Facial Aesthetics, Implant Seminars, Healthy Start, Academy of Minimally Invasive Implantology (AMII), Chen Laser Institute and Sleep Group Solutions. She holds many professional credentials and memberships, all reflecting her desire to provide gentle and holistic care.

Community Outreach: Making a Difference Beyond the Clinic

Dr. Nguyen and her team are not only dedicated to their patients but also to their community. They participate annually in the Smiles for Life Foundation, which provides access to oral healthcare for people with disabilities in the United States and around the world. Additionally, they contribute to KMOM Kansas Mission of Mercy, offering free oral healthcare to those who cannot afford it.

A Team Like Family

Dr. Nguyen’s practice is not just about one exceptional dentist, it’s a collective effort of a dedicated team. Some team members have been with her for over two decades, demonstrating their passion, expertise, and commitment to patient care.

“I am incredibly fortunate to have a team that is not only skilled but caring beyond measure. It’s really impossible to say what an impact each one of them has had on me personally and in the lives of our patients,” she reflected.

Beyond Dentistry: A Life Well-Lived

Outside of her dental practice, Dr. Nguyen is a woman of many interests. She is a firm believer in staying fit and active and enjoys savoring both healthy and indulgent food choices. Her love for reading allows her to escape into the world of literature, and she treasures traveling with her husband and two daughters. Adding a touch of whimsy to her life is Banks, their French Bulldog, who brings laughter to their busy days.

Gentle Touch Dentistry: Where Artistry and Science Converge

Gentle Touch Dentistry is a sanctuary of innovation and empathy. Dr. Colleen Nguyen’s vision for her practice is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence.

At Gentle Touch Dentistry, patients experience a realm where comprehensive diagnostics and cutting-edge treatments for dental and oral issues take center stage. The clinic boasts state-of-the-art dental equipment, ensuring that patients receive top-tier care. But it’s not just about technology—what truly sets this practice apart is the luxurious atmosphere, the compassionate staff, and the integration of advanced techniques to ensure a soothing and relaxing experience for every patient and their family.

A Visionary in Dentistry

Dr. Colleen Nguyen’s journey through dentistry is nothing short of inspirational. With her commitment to holistic care, dedication to ongoing education, and unwavering passion for transforming lives, she has carved a unique path in the world of dentistry. Her practice, Gentle Touch Dentistry, stands as a testament to her vision—a place where artistry, science, and compassion unite to create beautiful smiles and promote whole-body wellness. Dr. Nguyen’s impact reaches far beyond her clinic, touching the lives of her patients and her community, making her a true visionary in the field of dentistry.