Meet Dr.
Rick Molen
Known for his precision, innovation, and approachable nature, Dr. Rick Molen blends family tradition with the latest techniques to create stunning, natural-looking smiles.
Dr. Rick is proud to carry on the Molen Orthodontics legacy. After growing up in Auburn and seeing the impact his father made in the community, Dr. Rick knew early on that he wanted to follow in his footsteps — and now he’s honored to practice alongside his father, Dr. Bruce Molen, his younger brother, Dr. Aaron Molen, and his friend, Dr. Chris Eitzen.
Where the Legacy Continues
Dr. Rick was raised in Auburn, Washington, and graduated from Auburn High School before heading to Brigham Young University to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology. He then attended dental school at Loma Linda University, where he graduated at the very top of his class.
During his time at Loma Linda University, Dr. Rick received numerous awards for academic excellence, including the Academic Excellence Gold Award for finishing in the top 1% nationally on the National Board Dental Examinations and the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Award. He was also inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the prestigious national dental honor society reserved for students who finish in the top 10% of their class.
After dental school, Dr. Rick was invited to attend UCLA’s orthodontic residency program — the same school where his father studied — where he earned his specialty certificate in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.
Outside of The Office
Dr. Rick met his wife, Amy, while studying at UCLA, and together they have three beautiful daughters — Sophie, Mazie, and Aisley.
Outside of the office, he enjoys traveling, scuba diving, playing softball, officiating high school basketball games, and spending quality time with his family. Those who know him describe him as friendly, honest, and easygoing — qualities that make him both a trusted orthodontist and a beloved member of the community.
Practicing alongside his brother and his friend is one of Dr. Rick’s greatest joys, and he’s proud to help carry on the Molen Orthodontics legacy with each and every smile he creates.
Fun Facts About Dr. Rick
- He refs high school basketball, and he’s reffed two high school boys state championship basketball games!
- He and his family have a cat named Tiger and a fish named Mr. Suckers.
- His favorite food is the Royal Red Robin burger
- He loves 80’s music
- His favorite vacation destination is Hawaii
- His favorite dessert is Rocky Road ice cream
- His favorite tv show is Survivor
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Zoology – Brigham Young University
- Doctor of Dental Surgery – Loma Linda University
- Orthodontic Specialty Certificate – University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Continuing Education
Dr. Rick is deeply committed to lifelong learning. He participates in numerous continuing education courses each year to stay at the forefront of orthodontic advancements, and is an active member in a number of highly-regarded professional associates and invitation-only study groups.
Whether exploring new technologies or refining techniques, Dr. Rick’s focus is always on providing the best possible outcomes for his patients.
Memberships & Associations
Dr. Rick is an active member of several professional organizations, including:
Along with Dr. Aaron and Dr. Chris, Dr. Rick is one of fewer than a half-dozen orthodontists in the U.S. to simultaneously hold memberships in both of these prestigious, invitation-only orthodontic study clubs:
- Schulman Study Group
- Pitts Progressive Study Club
Honors & Achievements
Over the years, Dr. Rick has been recognized through a number of achievements, including:
- Graduated in the very top of his class from Loma Linda University’s School of Dentistry, earning numerous awards for academic excellence.
- Received both the Academic Excellence Gold Award, for finishing in the Top 1% of the country on the National Board Dental Examination, and the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Award
- Inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society, the prestigious national dental honor society reserved for students who finish in the Top 10% of their class
- Recognized as one of a handful of U.S. orthodontists with concurrent membership in the Schulman Study Group and the Pitts Progressive Study Club
