Dr. Daniel Richmond creates app to improve evidence-based orthodontics

Next Gen of the Month is a monthly Q&A with a dental student or new dentist where we ask them about their experiences and accomplishments thus far in their dentistry journey. This month we are featuring Dr. Daniel Richmond, a recent orthodontics graduate working on opening his own practice. Dr. Richmond is Oral Health’s Orthodontics Editorial Board member and founder of Ortho Calculator.

Why did you decide to pursue dentistry?

I’ve always had an interest in art, science, and helping people. Dentistry stood out to me because it blends those passions with the opportunity to take an entrepreneurial path. The chance to own a practice, make independent decisions, and bring a personal vision to life really appealed to me.

I also love that dentistry is hands-on and produces immediate, tangible results. Unlike some areas of medicine where outcomes take time to appear, dentistry allows us to see the impact of our work right away. Whether it’s relieving pain, restoring function, or enhancing aesthetics, we have the privilege of making a difference in our patients’ lives from the very first visit.

As I explored different areas within dentistry, orthodontics stood out. It has a profound impact on confidence and self-esteem. Beyond improving function, we shape smiles that change how people see themselves, and it’s incredibly rewarding to witness that transformation over time.

Would you recommend specializing in orthodontics like you did? Why or why not?

Specializing was the right choice for me because I enjoy the idea of focusing deeply on one area and refining my skills to a high level. I have a lot of respect for general dentists who manage such a wide variety of procedures, but for me, I value having a narrower scope of practice. Orthodontics has a unique balance of problem-solving, creativity, and meaningful relationships with patients. I also believe we’re entering a new golden era of orthodontics—one where technology enables us to deliver a level of efficiency and patient experience that was simply not possible in years past.

For anyone considering specializing, I’d suggest reflecting on whether you’re more motivated by variety or mastery. If you enjoy patterns, biomechanics, facial aesthetics, and you want to make a lasting impact on people’s confidence, orthodontics is a truly rewarding path.

Advice for future dental graduates?

My advice for future dental graduates is to enjoy the journey before your career fully takes off.

It’s tempting to rush through training, eager to start earning and settle into your final role. But looking back, I’m so grateful my path took me through multiple cities, including London, Montreal, Toronto, and New York. I also had the chance to work with my dad in pediatric dentistry for a year. That experience was invaluable, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Along my journey, I met incredible people, traveled for conferences, got involved in research and extracurriculars, and gained experiences that shaped me into the clinician I am today. One of my professors in Toronto once said, “Life is a collection of memories,” and that line has stayed with me. Each city I trained in has become a cherished memory. Once you’re established, there will still be plenty of exciting opportunities, but why not take advantage of the journey itself?

Pursue extra training, explore different areas of dentistry, and make yourself a more well-rounded, valuable practitioner. So, my best advice? Know where you want to go, but don’t rush the process. Stay open to opportunities, enjoy the ride, and trust that you’ll end up exactly where you’re meant to be.

You are the Founder of the Ortho Calculator. Can you tell us a little about this resource?

Ortho Calculator is a passion project that began during my orthodontic training and has grown alongside my career. In residency, I was struck by how different instructors could look at the same case and recommend completely different treatment plans. That sparked my interest in developing a more structured approach grounded in math and evidence.

As someone who finds clarity in numbers, I began breaking down the math behind treatment planning. I realized that key decisions—like whether to extract or expand—could be guided by math-based principles. For example: 1 mm of expansion creates about 0.7 mm of space; extracting upper first premolars typically yields 15 mm of space; and those spaces tend to close 50:50 from the front and back.

What started as a personal tool evolved into Ortho Calculator, a website and mobile app that helps orthodontists think more clearly about space analysis, extractions, expansion, and treatment planning. It’s not about replacing clinical judgment but supporting it with logic and evidence. This is my small contribution toward making evidence-based orthodontics more practical in everyday decision-making.

Updates on your start-up practice?

My office is finally starting to take shape! After months of planning, permits, and preparation, construction is well underway. The framing is done, plumbing and electrical are in progress, and it’s beginning to look like an orthodontic office, which is incredibly exciting.

Lately, I’ve been finalizing cabinetry design and lighting selections, making sure every detail reflects the vision I’ve had from the start. Next up: drywall, paint, flooring, and equipment installation. If all goes smoothly, we’ll be welcoming our first patients in just a couple months. It’s been a long road but watching it all come to life has made every step worth it.

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