Meet Dr. Lai

Your Avenel Orthodontist

Meet Dr. Connie Lai

Our board-certified orthodontist Dr. Connie Lai loves serving the Avenel community and getting to know her patients and their families. Her goal is always to provide tailored orthodontic solutions that not only enhance your smile but also improve your overall oral health.

Her extensive training and dedication to continuing education ensure that you receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.

Why Orthodontics?

Dr. Lai didn’t always want to be an orthodontist, but a conversation with her mother changed that. During this transformative talk, she realized that she wanted to use her patience, empathy, and compassion to help people feel comfortable and cared for — and that these strengths were perfectly suited for oral healthcare.

She was particularly drawn to orthodontics, viewing it as a complex puzzle that could bring about both physical and emotional transformations in her patients.

Today, Dr. Lai continues to find immense satisfaction in witnessing the life-changing impact of the right orthodontic solutions on her patients. Her approach to care is deeply rooted in her innate qualities, making her not just a skilled orthodontist but also a compassionate caregiver.

Education & Experience

Dr. Lai's educational background is both extensive and prestigious. She earned her undergraduate degree from Case Western Reserve University before obtaining her dental doctorate (DMD) from Rutgers School of Dental Medicine.

She then specialized in orthodontics, completing her Master of Science and Certificate of Orthodontics at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Lai is Board-Certified by the American Board of Orthodontics and is committed to staying current in her field.

Dr. Lai completed an Align Intensive Fellowship, focused on the use of Invisalign® and clear aligner therapy to treat a wide range of malocclusions.

Outside of the Office

When she's not creating beautiful smiles, Dr. Lai cherishes family time with her husband, Dr. Aquino, and their new son, Jackson. She also loves all things Disney and Harry Potter, including going to their respective theme parks.

In addition to riding rollercoasters through the Forbidden Forest, she enjoys hiking, exploring Avenel’s culinary scene, and binge-watching The Office and other favorite TV shows.