Meet Dr. Michael Clemente, D.M.D.
Your New York and New Jersey Orthodontist
When you’re searching for an orthodontist with proven credentials and decades of experience, you want someone who has not only mastered the science of orthodontics but also understands the art of creating beautiful, lasting smiles. Dr. Michael Clemente has been transforming smiles in Bergen County and Rockland County for over 50 years, building a legacy of excellence and earning the trust of multiple generations of families.
As the founder of Clemente Orthodontics, Dr. Michael Clemente brings a unique combination of extensive training, military discipline, and genuine care to every patient he treats. His commitment to orthodontic excellence has inspired his entire family, including his two daughters, Dr. Nicole and Dr. Marissa, who now practice alongside him. Together, this multigenerational team provides comprehensive orthodontic care across three convenient locations in Ridgewood, Woodcliff Lake, and New City.
Educational Background and Training
Dr. Michael Clemente grew up in the North East Bronx and attended Hunter College, where he received his undergraduate degree in Zoology and Chemistry. His strong foundation in the biological sciences prepared him for the rigorous demands of dental school.
He went on to graduate from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (now Rutgers), earning a degree of Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.). This comprehensive dental education provided him with the fundamental knowledge necessary to pursue advanced orthodontic training.
Military Service and Leadership
Upon graduation from dental school, Dr. Michael Clemente demonstrated his commitment to serving his country by entering the United States Air Force. He served as a Captain during the Vietnam Conflict, providing dental care to service members during a challenging period in American history. His two years of military service instilled in him the values of discipline, precision, and dedication, continuing to define his orthodontic practice today.
The leadership skills and attention to detail Dr. Michael developed in the Air Force have proven invaluable throughout his orthodontic career. These qualities ensure every patient receives meticulous care and predictable, excellent results.
Advanced Orthodontic Training
Following his military commitment, Dr. Clemente earned a certificate degree in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics from Fairleigh Dickinson University. This training provided him with the knowledge and skills necessary to diagnose and treat complex orthodontic cases, from simple alignment issues to challenging jaw development problems.
He started his practice shortly after completing his orthodontic training and has been successfully providing braces and treating patients ever since. Over five decades of continuous practice have given Dr. Michael unparalleled experience with virtually every type of orthodontic treatment and patient need.
Dr. Michael’s Approach to Orthodontic Care
Dr. Michael Clemente’s philosophy centers on combining time-tested orthodontic techniques with modern technology to achieve optimal results for every patient. His five decades of experience have taught him that successful orthodontic treatment requires more than just straightening teeth—it demands a comprehensive understanding of facial growth, jaw function, and long-term stability.
Throughout his career, Dr. Michael has treated thousands of patients with conditions ranging from simple spacing issues to complex bite problems requiring advanced orthodontic intervention. His extensive experience allows him to anticipate challenges before they arise and adapt treatment plans to ensure the best possible outcomes.
As a founding member of the practice, Dr. Michael has established a culture of excellence, prioritizing patient comfort, clear communication, and meticulous attention to detail. This approach has earned Clemente Orthodontics a reputation as one of the premier orthodontic practices in New York and New Jersey.
A Legacy of Family and Excellence
Dr. Clemente and his wife, Dr. Joanne Clemente, have raised five children: Dr. Danielle, Dr. Nicole, Dr. Michael, Dr. Marissa, and John (while he does not have his doctorate, he does have 3 master’s degrees!). All three of his daughters pursued careers in orthodontics, a testament to Dr. Michael’s passion for the field and his ability to inspire the next generation.
Working alongside his daughters, Dr. Nicole and Dr. Marissa, has created a unique practice dynamic where decades of experience meet fresh perspectives and cutting-edge technology. This multigenerational approach benefits patients by providing comprehensive care combining Dr. Michael’s time-tested wisdom with his daughters’ training in the latest orthodontic advances.
Dr. Michael takes immense pride in seeing his daughters excel in the field he loves. Together, the Clemente family has treated multiple generations of patients, often caring for grandparents, parents, and children within the same families.
Professional Memberships and Continuing Education
Dr. Michael Clemente maintains an active membership in numerous professional organizations, demonstrating his commitment to staying current with orthodontic advancements and best practices. These memberships provide opportunities for continuing education, collaboration with colleagues, and access to the latest research in orthodontics.
Beyond Orthodontics: Personal Interests
In his spare time, Dr. Clemente enjoys travel, architecture, cinema, writing, and boating. These diverse interests reflect his curious nature and appreciation for art, design, and storytelling, all qualities that enrich his approach to creating beautiful smiles.
His interest in architecture particularly complements his orthodontic work, as both disciplines require an understanding of structure, proportion, and aesthetics. Just as an architect designs buildings balancing form and function, Dr. Michael creates treatment plans balancing facial aesthetics with optimal dental function.
Why Choose Dr. Michael Clemente as Your Orthodontist?
When you choose Dr. Michael Clemente, you’re selecting an orthodontist with over five decades of proven success in creating beautiful, healthy smiles. His unique combination of military discipline, comprehensive training, and genuine care for patients has made him a trusted name in Bergen County and Rockland County orthodontics.
Key reasons patients choose Dr. Michael include:
- 50+ Years of Experience: Dr. Clemente has successfully treated patients with all types of orthodontic needs for over five decades.
- Multigenerational Practice: He works alongside his daughters, combining decades of experience with fresh perspectives.
- Comprehensive Training: He earned his D.M.D. from Rutgers and a certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.
- Military Service: He developed his leadership skills and precision as an Air Force Captain.
- Community Commitment: He has been serving families in the same communities for over 50 years.
- Continuing Education: He maintains active membership in 11 professional orthodontic and dental organizations.
- Family Legacy: He inspired all three of his daughters to become orthodontists.
Experience Orthodontic Excellence With Dr. Michael Clemente
Dr. Michael Clemente’s five decades of dedication to orthodontic care have created a legacy of beautiful smiles throughout New York and New Jersey. His commitment to excellence, combined with the collaborative approach of working alongside his daughters at Clemente Orthodontics, ensures you receive the highest quality care from a team truly understanding the value of family.
Ready to experience the difference five decades of orthodontic experience can make? Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Michael Clemente at one of our locations in Ridgewood, Woodcliff Lake, or New City. We look forward to helping you achieve the confident, healthy smile you deserve.