Meet Dr. Middleton
Getting the opportunity to be an orthodontist is fulfilling, both personally and professionally. I see so many people each day who I get the chance to help and am enriched by the relationships that have developed along the way. Getting to know these families and watch patients gain confidence, as we help them reach their goals, perfect their smiles, or correct their bites, is all so rewarding!
I am grateful to get to pursue a career I genuinely enjoy. When I see my patients smiling with confidence, whether in the office or in the community, I know I'm truly blessed to get to do something I love.
Education and Experience
I have been exclusively practicing orthodontics for almost ten years. I chose a field that I thought was a great combination of intellectual challenge, fun, and interacting with people. I wanted a career that would allow me to balance family and professional goals, all while helping others gain confidence and meet their own goals. Orthodontics has given me all that and so much more!
I am an Illinois native and graduate of Carthage High School. I went on to attend Greenville College, in Greenville, and completed a Bachelor of Arts in biology. I received my Doctorate of Dental Medicine at Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine in Alton.
It was at SIU where I developed an interest in the specialty of orthodontics. I attended Seton Hill University Center for orthodontics in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, and earned my Master of Science in orthodontics and a certificate in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics in 2013.
Staying up to date on the latest advances in orthodontics and technology ensures that our patients will be given current and up-to-date care, based on evidence. I was trained in evidence-based decision-making and maintain great confidence knowing that all of my clinical decisions are backed by the highest quality of orthodontic research available. I strive to make sure I treat my patients with the best care possible.
Professional Affiliations
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Illinois Society of Orthodontists
- American Dental Society
- GV Black Dental Society (Executive Board Member, current Secretary)
- Women in Orthodontics
Outside the Office
My husband Zach is a general dentist also practicing here in Springfield. We have three beautiful children and a large extended family with whom we’re very close.
When I'm not in the office, I enjoy working out and gardening, but my true passion is traveling. The world is a big place, and there are so many incredible sights to see! Our free time is often spent with our family and friends, being active in our church, and volunteering at our kids’ schools, as well as chasing them to different activities. My happy place is anywhere I can catch a good sunset!
I see so many of my current and former patients in the community. They are now teaching, babysitting my kids, or running their own businesses, and it's awesome to see how a city can have a small town feel if you take the time to get to know others. Supporting our local community is so important for building relationships and helping others to thrive here. It's what makes Springfield and Jacksonville better places to live and raise families.
