Professor Maria Orellana Valvekens is an American citizen. She was born in Argentina into a dental family. After obtaining her dental degree, she completed a doctorate (PhD) in Oral Biology and Maxillo-facial Pathology at the Medical College of Georgia in the USA. Her thesis focused on understanding the biology of tooth movement during orthodontic treatment. She later completed her specialty in Orthodontics at one of the most prestigious Canadian Universities, the University of Alberta. At the same time, Dr. Valvekens pursued a Master of Sciences. Her research focused on understanding and preventing caries during orthodontic treatment.

In 2007, Maria joined the University of California San Francisco as an Assistant Professor of Orthodontics, later becoming Associate Professor and clinic director. She was also a Director and Chair of the Boston University Orthodontic Program in Dubai, UAE.

She is currently a Professor and clinic director of the Orthodontic Program at the Université Libre de Bruxelles at the Erasme Hospital.

Professor Valvekens has published extensively in American and International journals. She is also a recognized lecturer in her areas of expertise.

She has given numerous courses and lectures in several countries in orthodontic treatment with clear aligners such as Invisalign.

She uses low friction brackets and the 3D digital orthodontics . With patient’s satisfaction as her priority, Prof. Valvekens is proud to utilize the latest technology to provide the best orthodontic outcome in the shortest time.

As a recognized orthodontist specialist, Maria is a member of the Vlaamse Belgishe Vereniging voor Orthodontistes (VBVO). She is also an active member of the American Association of Orthodontics, European Orthodontic Society, Italian Orthodontic Society , World Orthodontic Federation and International Association for Dental Research among others.

In association with the http://www.sleepclinic.be Prof. Valvekens receives her sleep apnea certification for TRP device (Tongue Right Positionner).

When Maria is not treating patients or teaching orthodontics, she spends her time with her husband and their two sons. She enjoys playing tennis and long walks with her dog T-Bo.

She is fluent in English, Spanish and French.

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