Philosophy

A Personalized Approach to Smiles and Balance

Our Face-First Approach

At Wright & Feusier Orthodontics, we do more than straighten teeth—we specialize in Dentofacial Orthopedics, focusing on how moving your teeth can enhance your entire facial appearance.

Every smile is unique, and so is every face. That’s why we don’t believe in “cookie-cutter” orthodontics. Instead, Dr. Wright and Dr. Feusier begin every exam with a detailed look at your facial aesthetics. From there, they’ll create a customized treatment plan designed to improve both your smile and your overall facial balance.

With our Face-First Approach, you’ll end treatment with more than just a stunning smile. You’ll gain the best facial profile and balance possible—because we believe great orthodontics means creating beautiful smiles and confident, balanced patients, too.

To Extract or Not to Extract?

Balancing Smiles and Facial Aesthetics
In the past, getting braces often meant having teeth extracted to make room for straightening. While this usually led to straight teeth, it sometimes left patients with less-than-ideal facial aesthetics. This wasn’t always because of the extractions themselves but because of inappropriate or unnecessary ones.

Today, we know better. At Wright & Feusier Orthodontics, we focus on maintaining or improving your facial balance. In some cases, extractions can actually enhance a patient’s profile—like when lips are naturally too far forward or prominent teeth make it hard to close the mouth comfortably.

Most of the time, though, we aim to avoid extractions altogether. By widening the dental arches and broadening the smile, we can create a balanced, natural look without compromising your facial aesthetics. It may be a more complex process, but the results—a fantastic, broad smile with harmonious facial proportions—are worth it.

Our Philosophy on Extractions
We believe it’s better to keep teeth than to remove them. Every effort will be made to avoid extractions unless it’s the best choice for your facial aesthetics and overall smile.

When is the Best Age to be Seen for an Orthodontic Consult?

Early Care, Better Results
In the past, dentists often suggested waiting until age 12 or 13—when most baby teeth were gone—to see an orthodontist. Unfortunately, this approach often led to more extractions to make room for braces.

Today, we know that seeing an orthodontist earlier, between ages 7 and 11, can make a big difference. Early consultations allow us to guide growth, prevent harmful habits, protect protruding teeth, and even reduce the need for extractions or jaw surgery. That’s why the American Association of Orthodontists recommends every child visit an orthodontist by age 7. While not all kids will need early treatment, those who do will benefit greatly from starting sooner.

But here’s the good news: It’s never too late to improve your smile! 
Dr. Wright and Dr. Feusier welcome patients of all ages. Whether you’re 7 or 107 years old, orthodontics can boost your confidence, enhance your appearance, and improve your bite.

Why wait? Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!

  • "Everyone there is extremely nice and they make you feel like family. They worked with me on the financial part of things, setting up a payment plan to make it very easy for me. My daughter loved going to her appointments. All of the technicians are so kind and gentle. They explained everything they were doing, so she was not scared and there were no surprises. And, now she has a beautiful smile!!"

    Amy

  • "This team exceeded every expectation I could imagine. I walked into this office with twisted teeth and overcrowding. I left with a smile I did not dream possible. Dr. Wright and Freusier are the most personable doctors I have encountered and their entire team is made up of the friendliest, compassionate people. Jeana and Edgar are special staff highlights as they were so gentle with me and kept up the best conversations. The doctors work as a team, so you get the incredible benefit of TWO professionals. Both were aligned in their process and recommendations ~ but it was so comforting to know I was in the hands of two well established orthodontists."

    Jenny

  • "If I could give the Wright and Feusier team 10 out of 5 stars I would! They made my two-year orthodontic journey easy and truly enjoyable. The doctors, hygienists, and staff made me feel comfortable and heard throughout the whole process. They even went out of their way to come into the office on their days off to help me with broken ligatures and poky wires. Special thank you goes out to Jeanna, who was my hygienist from day one and such a pleasure to work with. I deeply appreciate everyone’s hard work and dedication and now have a beautiful smile to show for it!"

    Jess

  • "Dr. Wright and Dr. Johnny are top notch. All the assistants are phenomenal. My teeth are straight. I couldn’t ask for a better team of professionals. Everyone is so friendly and nice, from the moment you walk in the door and all the way through. Thank you all for an amazing experience. I highly recommend them for orthodontics!"

    Mimi

Core Principles

  • Tailored Care for Every Patient: We develop customized treatment plans to meet the unique needs, goals, and lifestyles of each individual we serve.

  • Innovative Technology: By leveraging advanced tools like digital imaging, 3D printing, and state-of-the-art braces systems, we ensure precision, efficiency, and exceptional results.

  • Collaborative Treatment Approach: We prioritize open communication, working closely with our patients to keep them informed, comfortable, and confident throughout their orthodontic journey.

  • Whole-Health Focus: Beyond aesthetics, our treatments enhance overall oral health, promoting long-term wellness and functionality.

Why Choose Us?

  • Personalized Treatment Plans: Every smile and face is unique. We tailor our approach to your individual needs, ensuring the best outcomes for your smile and overall facial aesthetics.

  • Face-First Orthodontics: Our specialized Dentofacial Orthopedics focuses on creating balanced facial profiles alongside stunning smiles.

  • Cutting-Edge Technology: From digital imaging to 3D printing and advanced braces systems, we use the latest tools to deliver precise, efficient care.

  • Holistic Health Focus: Our treatments not only enhance your smile but also improve overall oral health, ensuring long-lasting results.

  • Expertise You Can Trust: With over a decade of experience serving Santa Barbara and Buellton, Dr. Wright and Dr. Feusier bring unmatched skill and dedication to every patient.

  • Extraction-Smart Philosophy: We prioritize keeping your natural teeth and only recommend extractions when it benefits your facial aesthetics or health.

  • Family-Friendly Care: From age 7 to 107, we welcome patients of all ages and offer early interventions to prevent future issues.

  • Stress-Free Experience: With smooth processes, convenient locations, and a welcoming team, we make orthodontic care easy and enjoyable.

  • Affordable Options: We believe everyone deserves a confident smile, so we offer treatments at prices that make sense for you.