The Importance of Board-Certified Orthodontists

Think all orthodontists follow the same playbook? Not quite! In Cary, where families have plenty of choices for healthcare, it helps to know what credentials truly matter. Dr. John Foley at Foley Orthodontics is board-certified, which reflects his advanced training, skill-tested treatment, and a commitment to going beyond the basics. Before we talk about what board certification means, let’s take a moment to get to know the orthodontist behind the smiles at Foley Orthodontics.

Get to Know Dr. John Foley

Before you choose an orthodontist, it helps to know who’s behind the smile. Dr. Foley brings world-class training and a down-to-earth approach to families across Cary and the Triangle. After earning his dental degree from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry, he was the only dentist selected for orthodontic training at the prestigious Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.

He’s now a board-certified orthodontist (an achievement held by just 58% of orthodontists) and stays active in several professional organizations:

Originally from Lake Zurich, IL, Dr. Foley made Cary his home over six years ago. When he’s not at the office, you’ll likely find him adventuring through North Carolina with his sons, Tadhg and Knox.

Now that you’ve met Dr. Foley, let’s take a look at what board certification actually means and why it matters to you and your family.

What Board Certification Really Means

All orthodontists go through extensive training, but board certification takes things a step further. And for Dr. Foley, choosing to become board certified was about doing more for his patients from the start. He completed extra exams, submitted real cases for peer review, and proved he could deliver results that hold up over time.

Here’s why that matters when you or your child is in the chair:

  • Smarter Treatment Plans: With this level of experience, Dr. Foley can spot what others might miss and map out care that fits your timeline and goals.
  • Stronger, Long-Lasting Results: It’s not just about the look — it’s about how your bite functions and feels for years to come.
  • Always Learning: Board-certified orthodontists like Dr. Foley keep up with new tools and research so patients always benefit from the latest in orthodontic care.

Coming up next, let’s take a look at how that kind of care plays out here in Cary, from early checkups to adult treatment.

What Board-Certified Care Looks Like in Cary

Being board-certified is a standard that shapes how orthodontic care is delivered from the very first visit. Here’s how that expertise shows up at Foley Orthodontics across all ages.

For Young Smiles

Dr. Foley follows recommendations from the American Association of Orthodontists, which suggest a first checkup by age 7. His board-certified training gives him a sharper eye for the subtle things, like how the bite is developing or how future spacing might change, even when everything seems on track.

For Teens

Teen orthodontics requires more than just clinical skill. It takes awareness, flexibility, and communication. Dr. Foley utilizes his advanced training to tailor each treatment plan, taking into account factors such as bite balance and future growth. And you can trust that every choice is backed by the highest level of care.

For Adults

Adults in Cary turn to Foley Orthodontics for options that work with their lifestyle. From Invisalign clear aligners to low-profile LightForce clear braces, Dr. Foley’s board certification reflects years of advanced learning and a commitment to staying current with the latest methods that deliver better results.

Up next, we’ll show how that same level of care extends to the financial side, too.

The Importance of Board-Certified Orthodontists

Braces Without the Budget Stress

Expert orthodontic care doesn’t stop at treatment planning. It includes making the financial side feel manageable, too. Dr. Foley and the team at Foley Orthodontics know that flexibility and transparency are just as important as clinical experience.

Here’s how they make it easier to move forward:

  • Complimentary Consultations – Your first visit is free, so you can ask questions, explore options, and feel confident before committing to anything.
  • Flexible Payment Plans – Monthly options that fit real family budgets, not one-size-fits-all templates.
  • In-Network with Many Providers – Including Delta Dental, MetLife, Cigna, Aetna, and more. The team also helps file paperwork and manage claims.
  • No Surprises – Everything is laid out clearly from the start, so you won’t get caught off guard down the road.

So now you know what “board-certified” means, why it matters, and how it shapes care at every age. Let’s take it a step further and explore what else makes Foley Orthodontics a standout choice for families across Cary.

What Else Makes Foley Orthodontics Stand Out?

There’s more to a great orthodontic experience than skill and credentials. What really sets Foley Orthodontics apart in Cary is how every part of the experience feels a little more thoughtful and a lot more convenient.

Comfort Without Compromise

Using NASA-developed NiTi wires, Dr. Foley keeps treatment gentle and efficient. No messy impressions or unnecessary appointments, just smooth progress from the very beginning.

A Space That Works for You

Our office sits at the corner of Cary Parkway and Lake Pine Drive, making it easy to swing by after school or during lunch breaks. Inside, you’ll find digital records, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a relaxing atmosphere that never feels clinical.

The Right Start, Right Away

Foley Orthodontics makes it easy to get going with free consultations and same-day starts when you’re ready. That means faster progress for your future smile!

When your orthodontist knows your name, remembers your goals, and treats you like family, you know you’re in the right place. And that’s exactly what patients find at Foley Orthodontics.

The Importance of Board-Certified Orthodontists

Cary Care That Clicks

From first hellos to final retainer checks, families in Cary know when something just feels right, and that’s the kind of care Dr. Foley delivers every step of the way. His board-certified expertise, friendly team, and thoughtful approach make Foley Orthodontics more than just a place to straighten teeth. Feel the difference for yourself and schedule your free consultation today!