Behind the Smiles:
About Us
Meet your new smile squad
Welcome to a different kind of orthodontic experience — one where fun meets expertise, and every smile is a masterpiece in the making. At Sparkle Orthodontics, we believe your smile transformation should come with a side of laughter, excitement, and confidence. We create personalized treatment plans that fit your life and style, all while making the journey something you’ll actually look forward to.
At Sparkle Orthodontics, your smile journey is anything but ordinary — because you deserve care as unique as you are!
The Expert
Say hello to Dr. Susana Lopez
Architect of stunning smiles
After practicing orthodontics across Virginia, I’m thrilled to open my very own practice here in my hometown of Alexandria, just a few minutes from where I grew up. My journey into dentistry began back at West Potomac High School, but it wasn’t until college that I decided to apply to dental school, and the rest is history. These days, you’ll find me grabbing coffee in Del Ray, walking Ella in Old Town, or treating families from across Shirlington and Northern Virginia right here in our Duke Street studio.
When I’m not creating confident smiles, I’m probably discovering new local eats or walking my sweet black lab, Ella.
I’ve poured my heart into designing a space that’s stylish, comforting, and fun, because orthodontics should be an exciting experience! I can’t wait to welcome you in and start your smile journey together.
Education
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College- The George Washington University
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Dental school- Howard University College of Dentistry
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Residency- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
Fun Facts
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I ran my first 10-miler in just under 90 minutes!
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I love sweets! Did someone say dark chocolate?
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I never had braces as a kid!
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Favorite pizza? Frank Pepe’s!
Community Work
Dr. Lopez loves giving back to the community. She has proudly sponsored several local schools and animal shelters in Alexandria and surrounding areas, including:
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West Potomac High School
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Douglas MacArthur Elementary School
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Belle View Elementary School
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Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
The Squad
Sonia
Meet Sonia, one of the first smiles you’ll encounter at Sparkle Orthodontics! An Arlington County native with over 13 years of dental experience and a degree in Business Administration, Sonia brings her administrative and clinical expertise to our office.
Her meticulous attention to detail and love of helping others helps streamline the experience, while her personable demeanor creates a calm and welcoming environment. Her creative influences can be found throughout the office, especially in areas that spark joy. Sonia hopes to make your visit one that puts a smile on your face!
Special Interests
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Multimedia Art and Creative Writing
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Individual and Group Fitness
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Artisanal Cooking and Baking
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Traveling and Multilingualism
Fun Facts
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I love Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams! My favorite flavor is Wildberry Lavender
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I have 3 American Pitbull Terriers! I love all animals and believe they are a human's best friend
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I never had braces as a kid, but tried aligners as a young adult! I am team traditional braces
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I am a multidisciplinary artist! I love painting, photography, drawing, digital design, crafting, and more
Ella
Meet Ella, a four-year-old Black Labrador who is the most popular face at Sparkle Orthodontics. When Dr. Lopez envisioned this practice, it was important to create a space that felt like home, and for Dr. Lopez, that meant having Ella by their side.
Ella is currently “hitting the books” (and the treat jar) as she prepares for her therapy dog certification. Her goal is to one day officially welcome every patient with a certified “paw of approval.” In the meantime, she loves being the star of your “Treatment Start” photos! Be sure to snap a selfie with her when you begin your orthodontic journey and tag her as #SparklewithElla!
Special Interests
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Early Morning Runs
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Exploring Old Town Alexandria
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Hiking New and Familiar Trails
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Therapy Dog Training
Fun Facts
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My favorite color is pink! I get it from my mom
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I rarely sleep in! I am an early riser and love it
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I never had braces, but I think I would look cute in brackets
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My favorite treats are doggy biscuits with peanut butter
Why you’ll love it here
A practice that feels like home
Alexandria roots, community focus
Born and raised in Alexandria, Dr. Lopez is deeply connected to the community. From Old Town to Shirlington, she’s passionate about creating confident smiles for the neighborhoods she calls home.
Fun, fresh
& personalized
¿Hablas español? Nosotros también
How we craft your dream smile
Early ortho
for little smiles
Braces
for every style
Clear aligners
Invisible magic
What Patients Are Saying
“We had a great experience with Dr. Lopez and her team. They were thorough in explaining all of our son’s treatment options. He has loved everything about his visits with them. Overall, it was an amazing experience, and we look forward to continuing his treatment plan with Dr. Lopez.”
“Dr. Lopez did such a great job of putting me at ease. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to patient comfort are evident at every appointment. I especially appreciated the small touches she incorporates to make the process more pleasant, such as offering headphones during procedures. She consistently communicates clearly, provides thoughtful recommendations, and delivers outstanding results. I highly recommend her!”
“I couldn’t be happier with Dr. Lopez's treatment. She does an incredible job and has such a kind, professional personality. She’s very accommodating with scheduling and always takes the time to explain everything. I’m genuinely thrilled with my results and highly recommend her to anyone looking for quality care.”
“I really recommend this place! It’s very clean, and the people in the front greet you very nicely. They take time to explain the process of what you have to do for your teeth, and they also offer drinks. My son loved the way they treated them there as well. I 100% recommend this place!”
“Can’t say enough good things about Sparkle Orthodontics and Dr. Susana Lopez. Beautiful office, super organized, and the team is genuinely friendly. Dr. Lopez was very knowledgeable and made sure I understood the plan and felt comfortable the whole time. I left feeling confident and taken care of. 10/10 recommend.”
Get started today!
Your confident, happy smile is just around the corner! Call us for a consultation and begin achieving your best smile.
