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Meet Dr. Diana Velicu Gardner

She’s the Highland Park orthodontist that everyone is smiling about

Crafting confidence with patients of all ages is what Dr. Diana Velicu Gardner does best, engineering smiles with purpose and precision, and reshaping lives at LVL Orthodontics.

“Our greatest strength lies in delivering high-quality, customized care to patients of all ages, from children to adults seeking complex correction or esthetic refinement,” she says.

“We combine advanced digital technology with a warm, personalized approach to create confident, lasting results.”

LVL’s state-of-the-art office offers a contemporary, welcoming environment that makes every visit comfortable and family-friendly.

The practice is built on excellence, integrity, and transformation with the aspiration to be the most trusted destination for care, one beautifully aligned smile at a time.

Unlike high-volume, multi-location practices where patients are rushed through a system, LVL offers boutique-level attention and consistency at every visit.

“We provide orthodontic solutions for the entire family, regardless of age or difficulty,” says Dr. Velicu Gardner. LVL is uniquely equipped to handle the full spectrum of orthodontics under one roof.

LVL also welcomes patients affected by different craniofacial syndromes. “We are capable of being part of a multidisciplinary team,” she says.

The practice recently introduced in-house laser treatment, such as gingivectomies, frenectomies, and soft tissue exposures, so patients don’t have to see another provider.

“With advanced technology like iTero scanning, digital X-rays, and remote monitoring, we make every visit efficient and precise,” says Dr. Velicu Gardner.

“We are in-network with many of the largest insurance providers, making exceptional care more accessible and affordable for Park Cities families.”

Outside of the office, Dr. Velicu Gardner has a unique story of her own.

She grew up as a competitive alpine skier in Romania and represented her country on national and Olympic teams.

The pressure-packed experience instilled discipline and resilience, skills she uses as a successful orthodontist. (She also speaks five languages.)

After retiring from skiing, Dr. Velicu Gardner graduated at the top of her dental school class and was named Romania’s Student of the Year in 2018. “It was a huge moment of pride,” she says.

Dr. Velicu Gardner moved to the U.S. to pursue advanced training at UCLA, where she served as chief resident and led research in collaboration with NASA, doing work that was recognized nationally and internationally.

“I was incredibly humbled to be named to Forbes Romania’s 30 Under 30 list in 2021 and receive the global TOYP (Ten Outstanding Young Persons) award in 2024.”

Beyond clinical care, she is committed to mentoring. “Whether it's sharing my journey, lecturing on orthodontic innovation, or advocating for leadership in healthcare,” she says.

She serves as Director for the Texas Association of Orthodontists and is deeply committed to helping shape the future of our profession.

Her husband, Luke Gardner, is a Highland Park native. Today, the newly married couple resides in the Park Cities.

Dr. Velicu Gardner says LVL Orthodontics’ philosophy elevates the orthodontic experience through personalized care, clinical excellence, and genuine connection.

“We believe that every patient, regardless of age or case complexity, deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported throughout their smile journey.”

The LVL mission is to build trust, confidence, and long-term relationships by combining cutting-edge technology with a warm, community-centered approach in a safe, inspirational environment.

Dr. Velicu Gardner is passionate about connecting with people and growing and creating spaces where everyone feels seen and supported.

“LVL Orthodontics is not just about straightening teeth; it's about building confidence and celebrating progress every step of the way,” she says with a smile.

LVL Orthodontics 

6401 Hillcrest Avenue | Suite 200 | Dallas, TX 75202

469.455.1355 |  info@lvlortho.com

 

“I provide a safe space where patients of all ages feel truly heard, understood, and involved in their care. Every patient deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported throughout their smile journey.”