Straighten Your Smile with Braces
Pitts 21® PRO Braces at The Smile Portal: Speedy, Sleek & Seriously Smart
At The Smile Portal Orthodontics, we don't just straighten teeth—we elevate your smile experience. That's why we offer Pitts 21® PRO braces: the high-tech, low-fuss, feel-good upgrade to traditional braces. Faster, more comfortable, and beautifully precise, they're the next-gen solution for anyone ready to smile brighter and bolder.
What Makes Pitts 21® PRO Braces So Special?
Say hello to your new favorite orthodontic sidekick. These self-ligating braces are smart little overachievers, working behind the scenes to move your teeth faster and more comfortably than old-school brackets ever could.
- Self-Ligating = Self-Sufficient
- Faster Treatment, Faster Results
- Comfy from Day One
- Total Tooth Control
Why Choose Pitts 21® at The Smile Portal?
We're not just fitting you with hardware—we're crafting your personalized smile masterpiece. Here's why Pitts 21 PRO braces shine especially bright at our place:
- Fewer Adjustments, More You-Time
- Low-Key Looks
- Easier to Keep Clean
Smile Arc Protection: The Secret Sauce to a Youthful Smile
Let's talk Smile Arc Protection (SAP)—a fancy way of saying your braces are placed to follow the natural curve of your lips. This keeps your smile looking full, radiant, and naturally youthful (think: the kind of grin that lights up every room). Bonus: it reduces shadows in the corners of your mouth and gives your smile that camera-ready wow factor.
Why Patients Love Pitts 21® Braces (and We Do Too)
It's not just about straighter teeth—it's about how you feel along the way. Our patients tell us they feel more confident, comfortable, and yes—excited to smile again. That's why we love Pitts 21 PRO braces. They don't just move teeth. They change lives (and selfies).
Your Confident Smile Starts Here
Ready to find out if Pitts 21 PRO braces are your smile soulmate? Book your free consultation today and let's map out your glow-up. We'll talk goals, snap a few digital scans, and get you on the path to a straighter, fresher, fully-you smile.
The Artist
Dr. Starks' Journey
Dr. Sheilla Starks' journey to creating beautiful smiles began with a passion for art, health, and serving others—values instilled in her by her physician father and nurse mother. Even as a young entrepreneur, she owned a small business selling hand-beaded jewelry, artisanal candles, and oil paintings, showcasing her eye for creativity and detail. Dentistry, with its unique blend of science, art, and human connection, became her calling.
A lifelong learner with a thirst for adventure, Dr. Starks earned her first Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the prestigious Universidad Nacional de Colombia, where she placed first in her class, made the Dean’s List every semester, and graduated as valedictorian. With a desire to broaden her horizons, she moved to the United States, mastering English and completing her second Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. Her path then led to Jacksonville University, where she pursued advanced training in Clinical Orthodontics and earned a Master of Science in Dentistry and a Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics.
Today, Dr. Starks is proud to be a board-certified orthodontist—a distinction that reflects her dedication to excellence. This voluntary certification demonstrates her expertise, rigorous training, and ongoing commitment to providing the highest level of orthodontic care. She is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Board of Orthodontics, and an active contributor to her local community through philanthropic efforts with The Glory Group, which supports children and families in need.
Why Patients Love Dr. StarksDr. Starks brings a unique combination of artistry, precision, and heartfelt compassion to her practice. Her strengths include:
- Attention to detail and creative problem-solving
- Honest, empathetic communication
- A gentle, charismatic, and fun-loving approach
She is obsessed with crafting smiles that reflect each patient's individuality and designing treatment plans that fit seamlessly into their lives.
When She's Not Perfecting SmilesOutside the office, you'll find Dr. Starks embracing life's joys—spending time with her family, juicing and discovering healthy hacks, running, practicing yoga, painting, and finding new ways to nurture mind and body.
The Smile Portal Crew
Brianna Collado
Front Desk ReceptionistI am from Winston-Salem, NC, and graduated in May 2025 from UNC Charlotte with a Bachelor of Science in Biology with Honors. Dentistry has been a special interest of mine, and I plan to pursue dental school with the goal of specializing in orthodontics. At the office, I serve on the front desk team, where I enjoy welcoming patients, answering calls, and helping with scheduling to ensure every visit is a comfortable and positive experience. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, working out, and being involved in my faith. A fun fact about me is that I conducted research with yeast and defended my honors thesis during my time at UNC Charlotte.
Kaitlyn Cabrejos
Front Desk ReceptionistI currently work as a front desk receptionist at Smile Portal Orthodontics. I strive to provide the best service to every patient, ensuring they feel welcomed and supported throughout their visit. Outside of work, I am a full time student at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where I am pursuing a major in Biology with a minor in Public Health. I am passionate about combining science and healthcare to make a positive impact in the future. A fun fact about me is that I love to bake in my free time!
Karen Gallegos
Lead Orthodontic AssistantI'm the Lead Orthodontic Assistant at The Smile Portal Orthodontics. Born and raised in Charlotte, I love serving my community. I'm passionate about creating a welcoming environment and helping every patient leave with a brighter smile! :) Fun fact: My favorite color is pink, and in my free time I enjoy beach trips and family vacations.
