ORTHODONTIST NEAR EAST LAKE, FL
Orthodontics Done Differently
Why Patients in East Lake Choose Us
Get to Know Our Dedicated Orthodontist Near East Lake
Dr. Alex J. Johnson
Dr. Johnson has been working in the dental field for well over three decades, and he loves being able to help patients achieve healthier and straighter teeth. One of the most fulfilling parts of his work is seeing little ones grow beautiful pearly whites while learning how to love their smiles. He grew a passion for orthodontics back when he was 13 years old and wore braces. By going through the process, he learned to enjoy the art and science of dentistry, and he remains passionate about the profession to this day.
After graduating from the University of South Florida, Dr. Johnson went on to receive his dental degree from Washington University as well as completing his master’s and Orthodontic Certificate from there. He’s undergone multiple advanced courses, such as Airway Orthodontics, through organizations like the Pankey Institute, and he’s even earned his Board Certification in Dental Sleep Medicine. He’s also a proud member of several professional groups, including the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the Florida Dental Association, and the American Association of Orthodontists.
Whenever he isn’t at the office straightening pearly whites, Dr. Johnson is likely spending time with his loving and supportive family. He and his brother even started dental school together, but he went into pediatric dentistry instead. In his spare time, Dr. Johnson enjoys tinkering with computers and learning everything he can about them.
Hear What Our Patients Are Saying
My friend just asked who I would recommend for my braces and looked up Dr. Johnson to see if he is still practicing bc my teeth are still PERFECT. Dr. Johnson was my orthodontist 23 years ago and I have never wore my retainers. I get compliments weekly on how beautiful my teeth are. Thank you Dr!
Our Featured Orthodontic Services
Wish you had straighter teeth? Dr. Johnson is proud to offer comprehensive orthodontic services to help you achieve your dream look! From traditional braces to Invisalign to pediatric orthodontic options near East Lake, we have a solution for the entire family in one convenient location. Our team will ensure you receive the high-quality and comfortable care you deserve. If you’d like to learn more about our services, simply click on the images below!
How We Make Braces Affordable
At Dr. Alex Johnson Orthodontics, we know how expensive braces can be for patients and their families. Instead of assuming everyone can simply afford to pay out of pocket for these appliances, we offer helpful ways to save so that treatment is more financially within reach. Whether it’s through dental insurance, flexible financing, or special offers, you can take advantage of these options so that your budget and peace of mind remain intact. Click the icons below to find out how our orthodontist near East Lake makes receiving braces easy and affordable.
Finding Our Dental Office Near East Lake
Getting to our office is easy. In fact, you can take E Lake Rd nearly the whole way! You’ll find our practice at 3840 Tampa Rd in Palm Harbor, which is close to Target, Publix Super Market, and Five Guys. Even closer, you’ll find Johns Hopkins All Children's Outpatient Care and the Florida Tongue Tie Institute. If you have any trouble finding our office, we recommend giving us a call so one of our friendly team members can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
AJ Orthodontics remains an ideal location for you and your family to receive top-of-the-line orthodontic treatment as well as valuable information about how to take proper care of newly aligned smiles for a lifetime. As a trusted orthodontist near East Lake, Dr. Johnson is here to ensure you don’t remain in the dark about your oral health. By providing clear answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, he can help you stay informed and avoid surprises in the future.
What is the best way to find an orthodontist?
You can start by doing a Google search that contains such terms as “orthodontists near me” or “orthodontists near East Lake.” While this may produce many results, you’ll need to know what to look for before choosing one that’s right for you and your family.
When reading the bios of various orthodontists, learning more about their educational and professional backgrounds is essential. Those who are members of the American Association of Orthodontists, like Dr. Johnson, as well as those who seek out additional opportunities to hone their skills through continuing education should be considered more closely.
At AJ Orthodontics, Dr. Johnson’s experience extends beyond orthodontics to include sleep medicine, which can be integral when it comes to determining if jaw misalignment might be the reason for a child’s snoring or sleep apnea. This is why he is also board-certified in dental sleep medicine and has completed courses in airway orthodontics. He’s also a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and the International Association of Orofacial Myology.
How do I get emergency orthodontic care?
The first step is to call our practice and discuss the situation with a member of our team. Whether it’s a broken archwire, a loose bracket, or lacerated oral tissues (i.e., lips, tongue, gums, or cheeks), we will work quickly to get you in for an appointment.
If the situation requires same-day assistance, we will find a time for you to come in right away. Otherwise, we will offer first-aid tips you can use at home until we can schedule an appointment for you to see Dr. Johnson.
Whatever you do, don’t avoid calling our office. It’s better to be safe than sorry, as neglecting an orthodontic emergency can cause further damage to your smile as well as delay your treatment.
What level of education is required to be an orthodontist?
To become an orthodontist, you must first receive a Doctor of Dental Medicine or Doctor of Dental Sciences from one of the 67 accredited dental schools in the United States. This can only be accomplished, though, if you graduated with a bachelor’s degree with high scores in math and science.
Dental school is typically three years and combines both hands-on training and classroom instruction. Once you have finished your degree program, you have the option to pursue a specialization, one of which is orthodontics.
A residency program is required and can take 2-3 years to complete. During this time, you’ll receive in-depth training and instruction on various aspects of orthodontia as well as learn about the different types of braces, retainers, and orthodontic appliances that are available.
Obtaining your license is the next step, which requires passing an examination. If you are successful, you will officially be an orthodontist who can practice in the U.S.
What do you do if you can’t afford an orthodontist?
Orthodontic treatment is a costly investment, and Dr. Johnson understands that not everyone has dental insurance. Even if you do, your plan may not cover braces. This is why it’s important to review your policy before agreeing to start treatment. If you see that it does include orthodontics, make sure there are no stipulations regarding age or the type of braces that are covered. If you find that your plan does not cover this type of treatment, ask your insurance company if you can purchase a supplemental plan.
If using private dental insurance is simply not an option, you can ask our team about applying for CareCredit. If you’re eligible, you can choose from one of their plans, many of which contain low or no interest. Also, they do not have any prepayment penalties.