We recently had the chance to connect with Melanie Wang and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Melanie, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I get up at 6, and I mix part of my marathon training in with dropping off the kids at the bus stop. Dropping them off is one of the best parts of my day. It is me, the kids, and our dog Boba who, depending on her mood, is a walker, runner, or a statue lol. Today I had 6 miles to check off on the schedule, so I ran a mile on the treadmill, ate some breakfast, ran 2 miles, walked the kids, then ran the rest of the workout. I guess it is better to run those miles continuously for marathon training, but I think of Voltaire’s “don’t let perfect be the enemy of good.” No matter how messy or imperfect, it got the job done. Afterwards I will get ready and head to work a little early to finish up treatment plans, and prep for the day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Dr. Melanie! I’m an orthodontist in San Diego and the owner of Dr. Melanie Orthodontics. My brand is all about combining high-tech orthodontics with a lot of heart, creativity, and community. We’re known for making braces and aligners a fun, positive experience for kids, teens, and adults—whether that’s through our kids club, interactive social media, or the playful merch we create.
What makes us unique is that we don’t just straighten smiles—we build confidence and connection. I love finding ways to partner with local schools, PTAs, and community events so that our patients and their families feel like they’re part of something bigger and contributing to the greater good by being a patient of the practice.
Right now, I’m working on opening a new location in Rancho Bernardo that’s going to take our patient experience to the next level with even more cool design features and tech. At the end of the day, my goal is simple: to make people excited about their smiles and to create an orthodontic experience that’s anything but ordinary!
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The part of me that I’m ready to release is the idea that I’m “only” an orthodontist. Yes, that’s my profession, but I’ve realized I’m equally passionate about being a mentor and a role model for the next generation, moms, and women business owners. I want to share not just my successes, but also the struggles and lessons I’ve picked up along the way so others can learn from them and maybe take their own path a little more confidently.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I actually almost quit my orthodontic residency when I became a new mom. It felt impossible to do both, and the faculty (male-dominated) didn’t make it easy on me. Being a mom, especiallt a new mom was stressful and exhausting in addition to the demands of residency. I had had enough. But thanks to my husband, my family, and friends who refused to let me give up, I pushed through. That experience taught me that resilience isn’t about doing it all alone,, it’s about finding strength in the people who lift you up. And to not be shy when asking for help!
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Sounds cliche I know, my closest friends would say that what really matters to me is honesty. I value people who tell me the truth, even when it’s hard to hear, and I appreciate being called out when I need it. It’s how I grow, and it’s how I know the people around me truly care.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I understand that if people want to change, you cannot tell them to do it. You have to somehow get them to believe it was their idea in the first place.
So true in my line of work! If you do not want it for yourself, I cannot care more than you do!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://drmelanieorthodontics.com
- Instagram: @drmelanieorthodontics
- Facebook: @drmelanieorthodontics
- Yelp: Dr Melanie Orthodontics
- Youtube: @drmelanieorthodontics8829
Image Credits
Katie Eve Photography for the last one, all orhers from iphone
