Merrick, NY

2201 Merrick Rd
Merrick, NY 11566

Phone: (631) 667-0070
Email: [email protected]

Mon: 10:30am – 6:00pm
Tue: 9:30am – 6:00pm
Wed: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Thu: 9:00am – 5:30pm
Fri: Closed
Sat: Call*
Sun: Closed

Merrick Orthodontists

Welcome to Star Smiles. Led by the experienced Dr. Paladino, our office combines cutting-edge technology with a warm, inviting atmosphere to ensure that every patient achieves their best smile.

Dr. Paladino is committed to offering customized orthodontic treatment tailored to each individual’s needs, whether you’re considering traditional braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic treatments. His expertise and commitment to constantly learning has led to their reputation of being considered the best orthodontist office in Merrick.

Star Smiles in Merrick, NY treats patients in the following ZIP codes: 11510 · 11520 · 11566 · 11575 · 11710 · 11793

Services in Merrick

Metal and
Clear Braces

Clear Aligners
(Spark & Invisalign)

Orthognathic
Surgery

TMD/TMJ
Treatment

Dental Insurance

Check our list of covered insurances to see if we accept your plan. If your insurance is not listed here, call our clinic and we will check for you!

Meet the Team!

Dr. Paladino, DDS

Payment & Financing FAQ

How do you know if one needs orthodontic treatment?

Our list of insurance providers above is not comprehensive, so don’t sweat it. If you want to confirm whether your plan is in-network with us, please call our office and we can check for you!

How much will insurance cover?

Depending on your insurance coverage and the treatment plan, the total amount paid out by your insurance provider can vary.

During your initial consultation, our front office staff can check your orthodontics coverage to help you determine what portion of the treatment will be paid for by insurance.

What are the signs or symptoms of orthodontic problems?

The cost of treatment can vary depending on the treatment route. When you come in for an initial consultation, our orthodontists will walk you through their treatment plan and associated costs.

Can you be too old for braces?

We are proud to offer zero-down financing for treatments. Instead of paying an upfront lump sum like many other providers, the cost will be split into monthly payments which are due over the course of your treatment.

Book a free consultation now

Dr. Paladino, DDS

Dr. Chris Paladino is a native of Massapequa, NY where he resides with his wife and two amazing sons, CJ and Bryce.

Dr. Paladino and his wife love to give back to the community on Long Island and are very involved with Team in Training, which raises money for leukemia and lymphoma. Dr. Paladino also walks annually with MADD.

Education

Binghamton University – Bachelor of Science, biology
Stony Brook University – Doctorate of Dental Surgery
Vanderbilt University – Orthodontic certificate

Dr. Dandajena

Born in Zimbabwe, Dr. Dandajena is widely traveled with experiences spanning three continents (Africa, Europe and North America) and five countries (Zimbabwe, Greece, Denmark, USA and South Africa).

He received his dental degree from the University of Aristotle in Thessaloniki, Greece in 1995, Master of Science degree and specialty certificate in Orthodontics in 2001, and PhD in Cell Biology in 2005.

After serving as Professor and Chair of the Department of Orthodontics at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in Johannesburg, South Africa, he relocated to Seattle to work at Angolkar4Smiles. Dr. Dandajena is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. He is a military graduate of the Military School for Officer Corps, Greece (1995) and retired at the rank of Captain from the Zimbabwe National Army. He has previously served as the Chief Dental Officer for the Zimbabwe National Army.