Meet Dr. Janeen M. Hughes

In my opinion, orthodontics is the culmination of the ideal qualities I cherish in dentistry. It offers long-standing doctor-patient relationships with the unique combination of artistic quality and science. My desire to pursue a career in orthodontics began early in life as I personally experienced the profound and positive impact that orthodontics can have on a person's life. I feel blessed to be a part of this great profession and that patients let me into their lives each and every day in order to help them achieve their goal of attaining a beautiful smile.

Education and Experience

My interest in this field further strengthened during my academic career while in dental school at the University of Pennsylvania. I found myself intrigued by my initial introduction into orthodontics and began to plan for a career as an orthodontist and perhaps teach dentistry at some point in the future. I thoughtfully began this journey by applying for a dual degree through the School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania, where I received a Masters in Education while concurrently attending dental school.

Following graduation from dental school in 2001 with my Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, 9/11 changed America and my plans to pursue orthodontics immediately after graduation. A war was on the horizon and I had to prepare for deployment to Iraq in support of Operations Enduring/Iraqi Freedom. I was one of three dental officers in 2003 from Camp Pendleton to be assigned to serve in support of the US Marine CSSB-12 unit, a supporting battalion to the Infantry. I then went on to become the only dentist onboard an amphibious ship to Kuwait and the Gulf in 2004. While this meant delaying my career in orthodontics, I would never trade the valuable experiences and opportunities that I personally gained from these deployments. During my months in the war, I was given the opportunity to garner profound and experiences in leadership and challenging supervisory roles.

Finally I was able to achieve my dreams of pursuing orthodontics and completed my residency in orthodontics in 2007. During the three years I have practiced orthodontics, I have realized that my past experiences as a teacher, leader, clinician, and manager allow me to continually administer sound judgment and excellent quality of care.

Honors and Recognition

• American Academy of Oral Medicine Award, 2001
• National Board Part II Achievement Award, 2000
• Matthew S. Cryer Honor Society, 2001
• Letter of Appreciation for outstanding orthodontic services in the US Navy, 2006

Outside the Office

I am married to my wonderful husband, Kevin, and we have two beautiful daughters, Evelyn and Veronica, and two cats named Mendel and Artemus. I enjoyed traveling around the world with the Navy and I hope to continue my adventures outside of the Navy. Now, I love reliving all the childhood fun I had growing up with my daughters with trips to Disneyland and the Cape. I love horses and am an active competitor and supporter of local equestrian shows and events.