Portrait by Sam Nalven

Dr. “Seuss” Kassisieh
Orthodontist
9377 E. Bell Rd., Ste. 185, Scottsdale
480-948-4010, drseussortho.com

Dental School: University of Iowa (Dental Degree); Baylor University (Master’s Degree and Certification in Orthodontics)
Years in Practice: 16

When did you know you wanted to become a dentist?
In sixth grade I did a mouthwash commercial for a school project.

How did you start going by Dr. Seuss?
I had many nicknames as a young man. Seuss really stuck when it was apparent that I was going to be a doctor. “Dr. Seuss,” like “Dr. Oz” or “Dr. Phil,” is more personable and original than “Dr. Kassisieh.” There isn’t a week that goes by that a child doesn’t ask me if I’m the author or artist Dr. Seuss. I just smile and say “I’m the orthodontist Dr. Seuss.”

What kind of toothpaste and toothbrush do you use?
I grew up in Iowa City, Iowa, two miles away from a Proctor & Gamble and Oral-B plant. To this day, I recommend and prefer Crest and Oral-B products.

How do you support the community you practice in and give back to the profession?
Charitable donations to organizations in need. Contributions to and support of fundraisers for many school, sports teams and clubs. Dedicated support to St. Vincent De Paul and Phoenix Rescue Mission. I am also a part-time clinical professor at A.T. Still Medical School, a volunteer examiner for Arizona Orthodontic Study Group, and have done pro bono care for children in need through Boys & Girls Club since 1996.

Describe the atmosphere of your office and how you try to make patients feel.
Our office has a whimsical and fun, yet professional, feel. We treat our patients as guests in our own homes. We use the “Golden Rule” for all interactions, and my vision has always been to set a very high standard for excellence in patient care and customer service while using contemporary, evidence-based treatment. I have an amazing team who are committed to excellence in all aspects of patient interaction and care. Our guests want a doctor they can trust. The foundation of what we do is based on honesty and integrity. Simply put, I only recommend treatment that I would provide for my own children.

Proudest moment as an orthodontist:
There are two. When I became a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontists in 2005, and every single day when a patient has completed treatment and I remove their braces.