Dr. Joy Gerasco is a board-certified orthodontist who combines advanced scientific training with a deeply personal approach to patient care. As the founder of Joy of Orthodontics, she is passionate about helping children, teens, and adults grow into the best version of themselves through individualized orthodontic treatment. Patients describe her as approachable, thorough, and exceptionally clear when explaining treatment options, making complex orthodontic decisions easier to understand.
Dr. Joy believes orthodontics should never be one-size-fits-all. Every patient brings a unique combination of facial growth, tooth position, bite relationships, lifestyle considerations, and personal goals. Rather than relying on a standard formula, she develops treatment plans tailored to each individual and family.
Her philosophy centers on three core principles:
Before becoming an orthodontist, Dr. Joy spent years conducting research and earning a PhD. That scientific background continues to shape the way she practices today.
She is passionate about evidence-based orthodontics and helping patients navigate the overwhelming amount of information available online. By translating complex scientific concepts into practical, easy-to-understand guidance, she empowers patients to make confident decisions about their care.
Dr. Joy also embraces modern orthodontic technology, including:
These tools help improve precision, comfort, efficiency, and customization throughout treatment.
Dr. Joy often refers to the Joy of Orthodontics team as her “dream team.” Every team member was selected not only for their skills and experience, but also for the way they care for people. The team believes patients are more than appointments on a schedule. They celebrate milestones, remember personal details, and work together to create an experience that feels supportive from beginning to end.
The entire team rotates between the Clayton and Wake Forest offices, providing consistent care and familiar faces no matter which location patients visit.
★★★★★ [4.9 Average Star Rating] — [800+ Reviews]
Patients consistently recognize Dr. Joy for [verified theme from doctor-specific reviews]. Their experiences reflect the welcoming, attentive approach that helps patients feel comfortable and confident throughout their orthodontic care.
When she isn’t creating smiles, Dr. Joy enjoys exploring new restaurants, traveling, spending time with friends and family, and planning memorable experiences. She is an avid audiobook listener, enjoys hiking and nature, and loves creative hobbies including art, LEGO building, and design projects.
A lifelong learner, Dr. Joy’s curiosity extends far beyond orthodontics. Whether she’s learning something new, planning her next adventure, or solving a challenging orthodontic case, she approaches life with enthusiasm and attention to detail.
She also appreciates being part of communities that feel connected and personal. One of her favorite aspects of practicing in Clayton and Wake Forest is caring for multiple generations of families and building relationships that continue long after treatment ends.
Yes. Dr. Joy welcomes children, teens, and adults seeking orthodontic treatment at both the Clayton and Wake Forest offices. Complimentary consultations are available.
Yes. Dr. Joy provides orthodontic treatment for children, teens, and adults. Her experience ranges from early interceptive treatment for growing children to comprehensive treatment for adults seeking braces, Invisalign, or correction of more complex bite concerns.
Dr. Joy provides comprehensive orthodontic treatment, including braces, Invisalign, early orthodontic treatment, bite correction, and treatment for complex alignment concerns. She also has extensive experience with surgical orthodontic cases and growth-related orthodontic issues.
Dr. Joy sees patients at both the Clayton and Wake Forest offices. She and the entire Joy of Orthodontics team rotate between locations to provide a consistent patient experience and continuity of care regardless of which office you visit.
Dr. Joy combines advanced scientific training, including a PhD, with a highly personalized treatment philosophy. As a board-certified orthodontist and Diamond Invisalign Provider, she focuses on evidence-based care, clear communication, and individualized treatment planning.
Experience Dr. Joy’s evidence-based, patient-centered approach to orthodontic care and take the first step toward a smile that feels like you.
