Practicing orthodontics is one of the cornerstones in my life. It has afforded me the opportunity to help other people while doing something that I enjoy. I am deeply honored to practice orthodontics and to gain the trust and respect of so many people. It has certainly been one of the great blessings in my life.

I am most passionate about improving the lives of others through the work that I do giving great, healthy smiles. I know that a beautiful smile boosts self-esteem and confidence and can lead to a better quality of life. I have seen the life-altering effect dentistry has on people and I am honored to be able to contribute to their success.

I enjoy meeting new people and helping them achieve their goal of a beautiful smile. As a result I help them reach goals in other areas of their lives. It gives me a great deal of satisfaction to know that I am using my talents in a positive manner that affects so many people. Every person is unique and has a different combination of needs, desires, and goals. I relish the opportunity to be able to assist in any way I can.

After graduating from dental school in 1970, I served as a dental officer for two years before entering my specialty training in 1972. In 1974 I began working as a public health dentist in Lakeland, Florida and in 1975, I opened my private orthodontic practice in Tampa, Florida. I maintained both careers for 27 years and am now giving my full attention to Marsh Orthodontics.

I participate in many forms of continuing education to stay current with the latest advances in dental treatments and technology. This translates into better care for my patients and a better trained team to help in their care. My patients deserve the very best that dentistry has to offer. Additionally, I belong to a number of professional organizations that have continuing education as one of their primary goals. My participation occurs at meetings nationally and internationally. I have given lectures in the past at some of the meetings to provide pertinent information to those attending.

My excellent team will go the extra mile to provide a warm and friendly atmosphere. They have a combined total of more than 100 years of experience in the dental field. Most team members have had orthodontic treatment and understand the processes involved. They are knowledgeable and are delighted to answer any questions or concerns our patients may have.

I am a native of Montgomery, Alabama and have been proud to call Tampa my home for the past 38 years. I am happily married to my wonderful wife, Joyce, and I have two grown children, Laryssia and Jonathan, and a grandson, Ari. My leisure activities include reading, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends. I love fishing, biking, hiking, and anything that allow me to enjoy the great outdoors.

As I have lived in the Tampa community the majority of my life, I have participated in many activities and organizations whose goal is to improve the lives of those less fortunate. I actively support many worthwhile causes, including:

Our front office team is here to help with all your scheduling, financial, and insurance needs. Most often, they'll be the first smiling faces you'll see when you come into the office. They're always available to answer any question you may have and want to make your time here as pleasant, comfortable, and stress-free as possible. They always try to provide the very best customer service available to ensure that you not only get an effective and excellent outcome from your treatment, but also enjoy your time in our office.

Our orthodontic assistants help to place braces, change wires, take any necessary X-rays and photographs, and give instruction on the best ways to take care of your braces or appliance. They love meeting new patients and take the time to make sure your treatment is an easy, comfortable and all-around positive experience from the moment you enter the door. Staying on top of technology is of great importance to our assistants, and they can be found taking numerous continuing education courses throughout the year in order to make your treatment as effective and efficient as possible. Our assistants look forward to helping you or your child gain the self-esteem and confidence that comes with a beautiful, straight smile.

Don't worry! Braces aren't nearly as scary as you may think. In fact, braces today come in a variety of styles, materials, and colors, making life with braces much easier, more comfortable, and even more stylish than in the past.

Orthodontic braces are a big part of life for many people your age. While braces may have had a bad reputation in the past, today's braces make it easy to look good and feel good! Please contact our practice to schedule your next orthodontic checkup.

Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists states that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Many adults are choosing to receive treatment because they understand the importance of maintaining their health, and they want to feel better about their appearance. Adults everywhere are taking advantage of the opportunity to receive orthodontic care, and now you can too.

For many adults, the thought of having metal braces is enough to discourage them from receiving treatment. However, today's orthodontic treatment options offer a variety of braces and appliances that are comfortable, aesthetic, and customized to meet your needs. Types of braces include:

The main difference to remember when treating adults or children and teens, is that in younger patients the jawbones are still developing. For adults, these bones have stopped growing, which may mean the possibility of orthognathic surgery to align the jawbones. Other differences include:

Our practice also recognizes that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatments, and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.