Dr. Maria Yazji is the founder and orthodontist behind Smarter Orthodontics. With advanced training, a deep commitment to innovation, and a genuine passion for compassionate patient care, she has helped thousands of patients achieve confident, healthy smiles.
Known for her warm personality and attention to detail, Dr. Yazji combines clinical expertise with a personalized approach. She believes orthodontic treatment should feel comfortable, efficient, and empowering, and she works closely with every patient to create a smile that reflects their goals and lifestyle.
Through modern technology, continuing education, and a focus on long-term results, Dr. Yazji delivers orthodontic care designed to fit seamlessly into busy lives.
Dr. Yazji earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from Northwestern University in Chicago, graduating in the top 5% of her class. Her academic excellence and dedication to the field led her to continue her education at Northwestern, where she completed an additional two years of specialty training in orthodontics and earned her Master of Science in Orthodontics (MS).
During her residency, Dr. Yazji developed advanced skills in managing tooth movement and guiding facial development. Her training emphasized modern treatment philosophies that prioritize facial harmony, long-term stability, and the preservation of natural tooth structure whenever possible.
Committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontics, Dr. Yazji regularly participates in continuing education courses and reviews contemporary research. She is trained in the latest techniques and technologies, including clear aligner systems and digital treatment planning tools, allowing her to provide efficient and customized care for patients of all ages.
What does it mean to be a Diamond Top 1% Invisalign Provider?
It means Dr. Yazji has extensive experience treating patients with Invisalign clear aligners and is recognized among the most experienced providers nationwide. This level of expertise allows her to treat a wide range of orthodontic cases with precision, efficiency, and beautifully natural results.
During her residency, Dr. Yazji developed advanced skills in managing tooth movement and guiding facial development. After completing her training, she further refined her treatment philosophy to emphasize facial harmony, long-term stability, and the preservation of natural tooth structure whenever possible.
Dr. Yazji has also written a book about her experience, Unlock the Power of Your Smile, in which she highlights real stories from past patients on how orthodontics has transformed their lives. Through her writing, she explores the emotional and psychological impact of a confident smile, reinforcing her knowledge that orthodontics can be truly life-changing.
Proceeds from the book support Smiles Against Bullying™, Dr. Yazji’s philanthropic initiative providing pro bono orthodontic treatment to children from underprivileged families.
Dr. Yazji believes orthodontics is about more than simply straightening teeth. To her, it’s about building confidence, supporting long-term oral health, and creating smiles that feel natural and balanced. She takes a highly personalized approach to care, understanding that every patient has unique goals, concerns, and lifestyles. By taking the time to listen and thoroughly evaluate each smile, she develops customized treatment plans designed to align with both functional needs and aesthetic goals.
Her philosophy emphasizes preservation and long-term stability whenever possible, prioritizing approaches that protect natural tooth structure and support healthy facial development. At the same time, Dr. Yazji incorporates advanced technologies such as 3D digital scanning, digital treatment planning, and remote monitoring to enhance precision, comfort, and efficiency. She values open communication and patient education, ensuring individuals and parents feel informed, confident, and supported throughout every stage of treatment.
Beyond the office, Dr. Yazji values meaningful connections with her community and patients. She takes pride in building long-term relationships with the families she serves and enjoys seeing patients grow in confidence as their smiles transform.
Dr. Yazji believes in balancing professional excellence with personal fulfillment. When she’s not creating smiles, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, staying active, and continuing to learn, both within orthodontics and beyond.
Her approachable personality and genuine care for others create the heart of the Smarter Orthodontics experience.
Read what local patients and their families say about their experience with Dr. Yazji:
At Smarter Orthodontics, Dr. Maria Yazji is committed to creating an experience that feels just as positive as the results. From your first consultation to your final retainer check, her goal is to make every step clear, comfortable, and personalized to you. Whether you’re exploring treatment for yourself or your child, Dr. Yazji and her team look forward to welcoming you and helping you take the next step toward a confident, healthy smile.
Schedule your complimentary consultation today, and discover what makes orthodontic care at Smarter Orthodontics truly unique.
Her approach to orthodontic care blends advanced specialty training with modern technology and personalized care. She focuses on each patient’s unique facial features, expertly tailoring each treatment plan to your specific needs, concerns, and physical aesthetics.
Dr. Yazji has always been passionate about combining science, artistry, and patient relationships. Orthodontics allows her to positively impact patients’ confidence while improving oral health and facial balance, a combination that makes her work deeply rewarding.
Dr. Yazji offers a variety of treatment options, including braces and clear aligner systems such as Invisalign® for teens and adults. During your complimentary consultation, she will review your options and help determine what best fits your needs and goals.