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Meet Dr. Clayton McEntire

Philosophy of Care

Dr. Clayton McEntire believes that exceptional orthodontic care begins with treating every patient like family. As a husband and father, he approaches every recommendation with a simple question in mind: “Would this be the same treatment I’d want for someone I love?” This philosophy guides every interaction he has with every patient.

For Dr. McEntire, orthodontics is about building trust, educating patients, and creating an experience where every individual feels heard, respected, and confident throughout treatment. He takes the time to explain what is happening, why it’s happening, and what patients can expect at every stage, because he knows that informed patients make confident decisions.

His goal is for every patient to leave with a healthier and more confident smile, as well as a great memory of how they were treated: with kindness, honesty, and genuine care. Whether he’s helping a child through their first braces appointment or working with an adult seeking the smile they deserve, Dr. McEntire strives to deliver the kind of service that’s worth talking about long after treatment is complete.

Academic Excellence and Experience You Can Trust

Dr. Clayton McEntire’s commitment to excellence has been evident throughout his academic and professional career. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Auburn University before earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he graduated first in his class and received the Dean’s Medal. He then completed his orthodontic residency and earned a Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD) at Virginia Commonwealth University, one of the nation’s premier orthodontic programs.

Today, Dr. McEntire is a board-certified orthodontist, a distinction achieved by only a select percentage of orthodontists through the American Board of Orthodontics. Beyond patient care, he has served in leadership roles with organizations including the Hillsborough County Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association, and the Southeastern Prosthodontic Study Club, reflecting his ongoing commitment to advancing the orthodontic profession.

Combined with years of clinical experience serving families throughout the Tampa Bay area, Dr. McEntire’s extensive training and dedication to continuing excellence give patients confidence that they’re receiving care from a trusted, highly qualified orthodontic specialist.

Education

Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry Degree

DMD, University of Alabama at Birmingham

 

Master’s Degree

MDS, Virginia Commonwealth University

 

Undergraduate Degree

BS, Biomedical Sciences, Auburn University

Certifications & Associations

Board Certification

American Board of Orthodontics (ABO)

 

Associations

Hillsborough County Dental Association, President

 

Florida Dental Association, Council Member for New Dentists

 

Southeastern Prosthodontic Study Club, President

Honors & Awards

Honors 

  • University of Alabama at Birmingham: Dean’s Medal
    • Graduated as the first in his dental school class
  • Auburn University: Summa Cum Laude

Awards

Technology and Orthodontics: Advancing Modern Care

Dr. McEntire believes technology should make orthodontic treatment more comfortable, efficient, and convenient for every patient instead of just showcasing innovation. Rather than adopting new technology simply because it’s available or trending, he embraces advancements that genuinely improve the quality of care and the overall patient experience.

At Amley McEntire Orthodontics, digital 3D scanners have replaced traditional impressions, allowing patients to avoid messy molds while providing highly accurate digital models of their teeth. These digital scans work seamlessly with the practice’s in-house 3D printing technology, making it possible to fabricate appliances like retainers more quickly and efficiently. Digital X-rays also provide detailed diagnostic images while exposing patients to significantly less radiation than traditional X-ray systems. Combining these diagnostic and printing tools with Damon self-ligating braces allows Dr. McEntire to shorten overall treatment time and make visits more efficient.

See Why Patients Trust Dr. Clayton McEntire

Patients choose Dr. McEntire because they trust him for the way he cares about everyone in his community. From taking the time to answer questions and explain every step of treatment to creating a welcoming, family-centered experience, Dr. McEntire is committed to making every patient feel informed, comfortable, and confident. See what patients throughout the Tampa Bay area have to say about their experience at Amley McEntire Orthodontics:

Life Beyond Orthodontics: An Outstanding Community Member

When he’s not creating healthy, confident smiles, Dr. Clayton McEntire enjoys spending time with his wife, Abby, and their six children. Much of his free time is devoted to coaching youth sports, supporting his children’s activities, and staying involved in their school and church communities. Whether he’s attending a ballgame, serving as Dad’s Club President at Christ the King School, or simply running into patients and friends around town, he values the relationships that make Tampa Bay feel like home.

Dr. McEntire also enjoys running, spending time on the water, fishing, and playing golf. As an Alabama native who now proudly calls Tampa Bay home, he appreciates the area’s unique blend of close-knit neighborhoods and vibrant city life.

Bringing Top-Tier Orthodontic Care to Tampa & St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg (Main Office)

5753 1st Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710

Phone: (727) 381-1062

South Tampa

110 S MacDill Ave Suite #201, Tampa, FL 33609


Phone: (813) 497-7441

St. Petersburg (Shiny Happy Smiles Office)

11201 Corporate Cir Suite 160A, St. Petersburg, FL 33716

Phone: (727) 577- 4911

Dr. McEntire is happily smiling with smiling tam member holding a laptop
Dental Degree
Complete a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from an accredited dental school.
Orthodontic Residency
Undertake a 2-3 year orthodontic residency program accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA), focusing on advanced orthodontic care.
Board Certification

Obtain certification from the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), demonstrating proficiency and commitment to the field.

State Licensure

Pass state and national exams to become a licensed orthodontist, meeting all regulatory requirements for practice.

Choosing the right orthodontist matters. After all, your choice involves finding someone you can trust with your family’s smiles and health. Dr. Clayton McEntire combines exceptional training, years of clinical experience, and a genuine commitment to treating every patient like family. From your first consultation to the day your new smile is complete, you can expect honest guidance, clear communication, and personalized care every step of the way.

Schedule your complimentary consultation today and discover what compassionate, patient-first orthodontic care can mean for you and your family.

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