Meet Dr. John Freda, Your San Marcos Orthodontist
Dr. John Freda’s path to orthodontics started early, in the third grade, when he fractured his front teeth during a school game. The braces that followed protected his smile and helped correct a childhood lisp, and being the first kid in class with braces taught him just how much a smile shapes confidence, speech, and a child’s life. That experience inspired a career built on relationships and results. A board-certified orthodontist who treats children and adults, Dr. Freda brings personalized, compassionate, leading-edge care to patients across San Marcos, and he feels genuinely honored by the trust they place in him.
Education and Training
Dr. Freda grew up in Buffalo, New York, in a close, supportive family that valued curiosity, discipline, and compassion. He attended Syracuse University on a full academic scholarship before returning home for dental school at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, where he graduated second in his class and was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the predominant dental honor society. His passion for orthodontics took him to New York City for his residency at Montefiore Medical Center, where his training included craniofacial and surgical orthodontics, clear aligners, digital workflows, and interdisciplinary care. He was honored with the Leo M. Davidoff Award for Excellence in Teaching. After residency, he moved to San Diego to match his love of the outdoors and an active lifestyle.
| Degree | Institution |
|---|---|
| B.S. (full academic scholarship) | Syracuse University |
| Doctor of Dental Surgery, second in class, Omicron Kappa Upsilon | University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine |
| Orthodontic Residency | Montefiore Medical Center, New York City |
Board Certification and Professional Memberships
Dr. Freda is a Board-Certified Orthodontist recognized by the American Board of Orthodontics, a voluntary, rigorous credential that not every orthodontist pursues. His professional memberships reflect a commitment to staying at the forefront of the specialty, including a notable affiliation with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, which complements the practice’s focus on airway health.
| Association | Membership |
|---|---|
| American Board of Orthodontics | Diplomate (Board Certified) |
| American Association of Orthodontists | Member |
| American Dental Association | Member |
| California Dental Association | Member |
| Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists | Member |
| California Association of Orthodontists | Member |
| San Diego County Dental Health Foundation | Member |
| American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine | Member |
Approach to Patient Care
Dr. Freda chose orthodontics because he loves working with people, building relationships, and creating confident, healthy smiles that change lives. His residency training in clear aligners, digital workflows, and interdisciplinary care shapes a modern, patient-focused approach, and his membership in the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine reflects an interest in how orthodontics supports airway and breathing health. Whether a patient is exploring Invisalign, braces, or early treatment for a child, Dr. Freda delivers care that is personalized, compassionate, and grounded in the latest techniques.
Beyond the Office
When he is not in the office, Dr. Freda is usually outdoors, rock climbing, hiking, skiing, or exploring new places, or spending time with family and friends. And even under the San Diego sun, he remains a proud Buffalo Bills fan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dr. Freda a board-certified orthodontist?
A: Yes. Dr. Freda is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a voluntary credential that reflects advanced expertise and clinical skill.
Q: What are Dr. Freda’s areas of focus?
A: Dr. Freda is trained in craniofacial and surgical orthodontics, clear aligners, and digital workflows, and he has a special interest in airway and dental sleep medicine.
Schedule With Dr. Freda
Meet a board-certified orthodontist who treats every patient like family. Call San Marcos Orthodontics at (760) 744-4444 or request an appointment for your complimentary consultation. We are located on West San Marcos Boulevard, serving San Marcos and North County San Diego.
