About Otter Orthodontics
Where advanced orthodontic care meets a warm, nurturing environment for patients of all ages
Our Mission
Creating Healthy, Confident Smiles
At Otter Orthodontics, we believe everyone deserves a smile they're proud to share. Our practice is built on a foundation of personalized care, technical excellence, and creating positive experiences for every patient who walks through our doors.
As the only female-owned orthodontic practice in Happy Valley, we bring a unique perspective to orthodontic care. Dr. Hill combines her extensive training with genuine empathy—stemming from her own childhood orthodontic experience—to create a practice where patients feel truly heard and cared for.
Expertise & Compassion
Get to Know Dr. Gemma Hill
Dr. Gemma Hill's path to orthodontics began with her personal experience as a child. Growing up in Fullerton, California with a mother who was a second-grade teacher and a father who was an aerospace engineer, she gained a perfect blend of science and art that influences her approach today. As a shy child who was bullied for her dental issues, her positive experiences with orthodontic treatment made a lasting impression and inspired her career path.
After earning her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from California Polytechnic State University, Dr. Hill continued her education with a Master's degree in Medical Sciences from Boston University, a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Michigan, and finally her Master's in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics from Loma Linda University.
Before acquiring her practice in Clackamas, Dr. Hill worked as a general dentist, taught at the University of Michigan as an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor, and practiced orthodontics in corporate settings. These diverse experiences shaped her commitment to providing personalized care with the highest clinical standards.
Dr. Hill is committed to continuing education, having completed advanced training in aligner therapy through the Aligner Intensive Fellowship, the Clear Aligner Advanced Residency Education (CAARE) program, and the clinical Advanced Practice with Invisalign (API) course. She has also pursued business and practice management training through the AAO’s Mastering the Business of Orthodontics program, which includes coursework from Wharton.
Outside the office, Dr. Hill enjoys gardening, cooking, traveling, and staying active. She loves spending time with her husband, Anthony, and their son, Flynn. They also have an adorable dog named Agnes!
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Our Experienced Team
Our team brings years of experience and a genuine passion for orthodontic care. With a culture that's friendly, kind, caring, and warm, we work together to ensure every patient receives excellent treatment in a comfortable environment.
Your First Visit
Beginning Your Smile Journey
THE CONSULTATION
Your first visit to Otter Orthodontics includes a comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Hill will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, jaw, facial structure, and airway. We'll take complete diagnostic records, including photos and x-rays and discuss your smile goals and any concerns you may have. Using this information, we create a personalized treatment plan addressing your specific needs.
WHAT TO BRING
Download your new patient forms in advance. Bring your insurance information if you have orthodontic coverage, and a list of any questions you'd like to ask during your consultation. If you've had previous orthodontic treatment or recent dental x-rays, having those records available can be helpful but isn't required.
Comfort and Convenience at Every Visit
Get ready for orthodontic visits you genuinely look forward to. We've created an office environment with amenities designed to make your time with us as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Fresh-Baked Cookies
Our office is known for serving fresh-baked cookies every day—a patient favorite that makes each visit a little sweeter.
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Beverage Station
Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, hot cocoa, or water during your visit.
Photo Booth
Capture memories of your orthodontic journey with our fun photo booth station.
Advanced Technology
We use the latest orthodontic technology, including Invisalign digital scanning, to ensure efficient and effective treatment.
Comfort Menu
Customize your experience during every appointment. Whether you want noise-canceling headphones or to sit back with Netflix and a blanket – we’re here to make you feel comfortable.
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Kid’s Corner
Our kid-friendly books and games keep our youngest visitors entertained.
Growing Together
Community Partnerships
At Otter Orthodontics, we believe in being an active, positive force in our community. As a new chapter begins for our practice under Dr. Hill's leadership, we're enthusiastic about building meaningful partnerships with local schools, sports teams, and organizations.
We're actively seeking community partners for sponsorships and outreach opportunities. If your organization would like to collaborate with Otter Orthodontics, we'd love to hear from you! Together, we can make Happy Valley and Clackamas even better places to live, work, and smile.
Start Your Smile Journey
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Whether you're considering treatment for yourself or your child, we're here to help. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation and take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile.