Say hello to Dr. Chris Olson of Olson Orthodontics in Arizona, our dentist spotlight! Dr. Olson specializes in orthodontics and is passionate about changing people’s confidence and lives. He provides care or adults and children at his practices in Avondale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park and Verrado, Arizona.
An Arizona native, Dr. Olson graduated from the University of the Pacific Dental School in San Francisco, and then completed his orthodontic residency at the University of Connecticut. Outside of his work, he enjoys spending time with his family, traveling and playing or watching sports.
What made you decide to become a dentist?
The profession is most attractive because it is a great marriage between art, science and caring for people. I had initially worked in the business side of healthcare and later realized that wasn’t what I wanted to be doing. What I really enjoyed was medicine, so I shadowed several doctors. One of them said, “If you’re going to change careers you should follow my son around; he’s a dentist.” I shadowed his son and loved it! Then I remembered my high school orthodontist, who I thought was awesome and it just seemed like a perfect career fit.
Do you brush and floss as much as you recommend?
I definitely brush as much as I recommend, but I probably need to work on the flossing.
What is your favorite flavor of toothpaste?
Vanilla mint. I like something a little lighter and nothing too intense.
Electric or manual toothbrush (for yourself and recommended for patients)?
Whatever you are comfortable with and whatever you use best. Buying the most expensive golf club is not going to make you better at that sport. You have to know how to use it. I use a manual toothbrush, my wife uses electric and my son likes both. You can invest in an expensive toothbrush but if you are not using it right it won’t matter.
Which celebrity has the best smile and why?
I have always thought Denzel Washington had a nice smile because it is wide and always seems genuine.
If you could tell patients to stop doing one thing, what would it be?
Not only in orthodontics but in life: focus on the result and do not get too caught up in the journey along the way. Focusing on the result will help you get through the harder times.
What is the best dental advice you’ve ever received?
Focus on loving people, caring for people and putting their interests first. The business success will follow.
What is the best thing about being a Delta Dental dentist?
One of the best things is the confidence in the Delta Dental brand. There is confidence on the business side; we know that questions will be handled efficiently and effectively. It is a trusted brand that’s well established and there is stability. Also, the patients are highly educated on what their benefits are, so they usually know what they are getting into.
What is your favorite dentist joke?
What’s a dentist’s favorite time? Tooth thirty.
What are three things that always make you smile?
First, my family. Second, is seeing the look on a patient’s face when they’re done with treatment and are shocked or surprised at the impact and change. Third is seeing our team succeed.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three items would you bring?
My wife and son, a bible and a lifetime supply of sunscreen.
