“Orthodontics is not just my profession, but my passion. I love what I do from start to finish, but definitely, the most rewarding part is the beautiful smile at the end of the journey!” – Dr. Monica
A beautiful smile builds confidence and Dr. Monica feels fortunate to be in a profession that lets her change the lives of people while doing what she truly loves to do! Her attention to detail and eye for esthetics of the smile guides her unique treatment approach, personalized for each patient. Whether it is braces, Invisalign or any other orthodontic treatment, you can rest assured that you will get the highest quality of care with Dr. Monica. She places particular emphasis on patient communication and comfort so that the journey to a beautiful smile is a pleasant and enjoyable one!
Outside The Office
When Dr. Monica is not busy creating beautiful smiles, she enjoys traveling, playing Squash and Pickleball, listening to music, singing, dancing, and most of all, relaxing and spending time with her children, Isha and Sahil. OMER alert – She was a coach for Odyssey of The Mind for 8 years!! Dr. Monica feels strongly about giving back to the community, and does so through donations and sponsorship to local schools, Girl and Boy Scouts, sports teams and other non-profit groups.
Education and Experience
- Private Practice of Orthodontics – 2002 – present
- Asst Clinical Professor, Division of Orthodontics, Columbia University – 2001-2021
- Certification in Orthodontics – Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, 2001
- Doctorate of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) – University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, 1999
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery (B.D.S.) – University of Mumbai; Nair Hospital Dental College, 1996
Dr. Monica began her career as a dentist in India, where she went through five years of training at Nair Dental College in Mumbai. When she moved to the United States, she pursued her dental degree at the University of Pennsylvania, followed by specialization in Orthodontics at Columbia University. On graduation, she worked as an Orthodontist in a private practice in Stamford for a few years before starting Smile Art Orthodontics in 2007.
Dr. Monica attends meetings and conferences, as well as online continuing education courses throughout the year to keep up with current research and developments in the orthodontic field. Additionally, she was on the faculty of Columbia University for over 20 years as a clinical instructor for the orthodontic residents. Through teaching and learning, she strives to provide the best possible care to her patients while maintaining a cutting-edge practice with the latest technology.
Academic and Professional Achievements
Dr. Monica has excelled both academically and clinically throughout her years of training and practice. She graduated with high honors and a GPA of 4.0 from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, and received the National Board Achievement Award for her outstanding performance on the Dental Boards. Dr.Monica is a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, and in 2002, she was awarded the Shepard Award of Distinction by the American Board of Orthodontics for achieving the highest score nationally on the board certification examination. Click for detailed CV
Professional Affiliations
- College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Northeastern Society of Orthodontists
- American Dental Association
- Columbia Orthodontic Alumni Society, Advisory Board