Some of the most amazing transformations are watching our patients confidence grow as their teeth start looking better and better. As simple as it is, its really rewarding to see patients feel better about smiling. A big part of the enjoyment for me is getting to work with so many different people and witnessing how our treatment affects them personally, whether they simply wanted a healthy bite or are just amazed at how great their teeth look.
Dr. Stephen Darmitzel was born and raised in Santa Fe and was a graduate of Santa Fe High School. For his undergraduate studies, he attended the University of Missouri on a swimming scholarship, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in biology. Dr. Darmitzel went to dental school at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, graduating as the highest ranked dental student in his class with his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. Following dental school, he went directly into a residency in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, also at UMKC. In addition to the clinical requirements of residency, Dr. Darmitzel earned a Master's degree studying ceramic (clear) braces.
Dr. Darmitzel feels it is his responsibility to stay current in an ever-changing field in order to provide the most current and evidence-based treatment available. He finds it exciting to learn about new techniques and advances in the field, and regularly attends continuing education courses on orthodontics and contemporary topics in dentistry in order to stay current with advances in the profession.
Dr. Darmitzel and his wife, Kylie, live in Santa Fe with their two boys. In addition to doing his best to be a good dad and husband, Dr. Darmitzel tries to spend as much time outside as possible. Hes been an avid fly-fisher since he started tying his own flies when he was 12 years old and now enjoys getting out to the local rivers and streams as often as he can.
Dr. Darmitzel maintains his connection to the sport of swimming by coaching elementary school swim teams in Santa Fe. He also sponsors the Rio Rapids Northern Soccer Club, a great organization that gets kids involved in sports at a young age. Professionally, Dr. Darmitzel is a provider with Smiles Change Lives, a program that is dedicated to making orthodontic treatment affordable for families in need.
I feel it is important to continue to learn and stay abreast of evidencebased techniques in orthodontics in order to give my patients the best-possible orthodontic result. I am also involved with a local interdisciplinary study club, which allows me to take advantage of the expertise of excellent general dentists and other specialists in any necessary team treatment of my patients.
I am passionate about giving every patient a well-functioning bite and a beautiful smile they can be proud of. I love taking a patient who may be somewhat hesitant to smile when we begin treatment and watching their confidence grow as their teeth become straighter. I decided I wanted to be an orthodontist at age 12 when I was wearing braces myself. I thought it would be very rewarding to give others what my orthodontist gave me and for the last 32 years I have been blessed to do just that.
I was raised in Santa Fe and graduated from St. Michaels High School. My husband Scott and I have a son and a daughter who are both accomplished athletes (golf and softball) and we are a family who plays many sports in our free time.
Personally, I have been a volunteer in different capacities at St. Michaels High School for the last 30 years and am currently serving on the Board of Trustees. My husband Scott and I also volunteer as partners for Special Olympics in their golf program.
My orthodontic practice has afforded me the opportunity to meet and develop relationships with so many wonderful families in Santa Fe and northern New Mexico. I see former patients everywhere I go and am always gratified when they remember me and make it a point to flash their smiles!
We recognize that all of our patients are unique and deserve to receive orthodontic care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding orthodontic experience every time you visit our practice.
In her spare time, Kayla enjoys being with her two fur babies Harley and Spotty, as well as her husband Dominic. They enjoy camping, hiking, four-wheeling, fishing, and just about anything else they can do outdoors! When shes at home, Kayla likes crafting and watching a good movie.
Karen joined our office in 2019, taking advantage of the knowledge and experience of Dr. Darmitzel and our team to become an outstanding financial coordinator. She enjoys helping patients arrange financial options that allow them to achieve a beautiful smile, and hopes to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Mariana began working at Darmitzel Orthodontics in 2019, after earning her Associates degree in Dental Health and certificate in dental assisting. She fills each day at our office by interacting with patients on a one-on-one level and creating a bond with them. She is most fulfilled when watching the excitement that fills patients up after seeing their orthodontic improvements. Mariana most appreciates working at an office that is her home away from home, and that is full of jokes and laughter.
Mariana is the spontaneous one of the group! On the weekends, she likes going out to concerts and dancing, though you can also find her staying home and watching movies. Her favorite thing at home is spending time with her fur baby, a three-year-old, playful Shih Tzu named Maximiliano, or Max for short. As for her hobbies, Mariana enjoys playing with makeup and has a part time job at Ulta Beauty. Aside from family, friends, and work, she is attending classes to finish her degree!
Destiny graduated from Santa Fe Community College with a certificate in dental assisting in 2020. As an orthodontic assistant, her favorite part about her job is watching patients change through each phase of treatment. She appreciates that, at our office, she gets to learn something new every day, not to mention all the smiles and laughs!
Destiny is Native American, from the Pueblos of Cochiti and Ohkay Owingeh. She loves participating in and learning her Pueblos traditions and languages, along with spending time with her family and two Siberian huskies, Roxy and Zeus. Besides spending time with her fur babies and family, she enjoys playing softball, watching movies, listening to music, and baking!
Diana recently joined our office, where she welcomes patients into the office, explains whatever procedure will be done that day, and then helps Dr. Darmitzel carry it out. She thrives on meeting new people and loves seeing before and after results for each patientfor her, that part is the most awesome!
We were so pleased to welcome Nahomy to the Darmitzel Orthodontics team in 2021! A recent graduate of dental assisting school, she can be found at our front desk where she greets all patients with a smile and facilitates the check-in process. Nahomy loves that she plays a role in making patients love their new smiles and helping them feel comfortable in our office. Shes also excited to spend time in such a splendid work atmosphere!
Outside of work, Nahomy enjoys time with family, going on hikes, and try new restaurants. In her free time, you might just find her reading an enjoyable book, listening to music, or playing the piano. She loves discovering new activities!
At Darmitzel Orthodontics, our doctors and team want your orthodontic experience to be educational, fun, and safe. We combine art, science, experience, and exceptional customer service, to offer you the highest quality orthodontic care.
Ours is a welcoming and family-oriented practice, where we dedicate time to getting to know our patients and their families. As you step through the doors and are greeted by name, youll know youre in the right place!