The Stark Difference in Orthodontic Care

Crafting Confident Smiles: Where Expertise Meets Compassion

Meet the Stark Duo: Creating a Legacy of Smiles

At Stark Smiles Orthodontics, Drs. Tom and Michael Stark represent a unique father-son partnership that blends decades of experience with cutting-edge innovation. Their shared passion for creating beautiful, healthy smiles is the cornerstone of our practice.

What makes our doctors truly special is their ability to connect with patients of all ages. Dr. Tom and Dr. Michael are committed to making your orthodontic experience comfortable, effective, and enjoyable, regardless of your stage in life:

For children: They create a welcoming environment for those excited about their first orthodontic visit.
For teenagers: They offer discreet treatment options to suit individual preferences.
For adults: They provide tailored solutions to refine and enhance smiles.

Our doctors’ dedication ensures a positive orthodontic journey for every patient, from young children to adults.

Get to know Dr. Tom and Dr. Michael on a more personal level as they share their journeys into orthodontics and what makes their approach to care uniquely “Stark.”

Hello! I’m Dr. Tom Stark.

(BUT PLEASE CALL ME DR. TOM.)

As a Seventh Grader, I wanted to be invisible.

Painfully shy and insecure about my appearance, it wasn’t until after I got braces that I began to come out of my shell. By the time I was 16 years old, I knew I wanted to make orthodontics my life’s work.

For over three decades, my team and I have helped more than 10,000 people love their smile and gain a confidence they never thought possible. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve my patients every single day.

When I’m not at the office, I love spending time with my wife and soulmate, Cindy, and catching up with our four grown children, their spouses, and our three adorable grandsons. I enjoy fly fishing, golf, upland bird hunting, and water sports— but I like to say I’m a “permanent beginner.” (I’m just not particularly good at any of them!)

My Resume: The Less-Exciting Stuff

Education

Bachelor of Science, Iowa State University
Doctorate of Dental Surgery, University of Iowa
Master of Science in Dentistry, Baylor University

Publications, Teaching, and Ongoing Training

Adjunct associate professor at the University of Iowa
Regular participant in local, regional, national and international continuing education opportunities, which allows me to stay in-the-know on the latest innovations in orthodontics
Contributor to Practical Reviews in Orthodontics and the AJODO

Professional Associations

College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics
American Board of Orthodontics
American Association of Orthodontists
Midwestern Society of Orthodontists, past president
Iowa Society of Orthodontists, past president
World Federation of Orthodontists
American Dental Association
Iowa Dental Association
Baylor Orthodontic Alumni Association, past president
Smiles Change Lives

Schedule a Consultation

Hello! I’m Dr. Tom Stark.

(BUT PLEASE CALL ME DR. TOM.)

As a Seventh Grader, I wanted to be invisible.

Painfully shy and insecure about my appearance, it wasn’t until after I got braces that I began to come out of my shell. By the time I was 16 years old, I knew I wanted to make orthodontics my life’s work.

For over three decades, my team and I have helped more than 10,000 people love their smile and gain a confidence they never thought possible. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve my patients every single day.

When I’m not at the office, I love spending time with my wife and soulmate, Cindy, and catching up with our four grown children, their spouses, and our three adorable grandsons. I enjoy fly fishing, golf, upland bird hunting, and water sports— but I like to say I’m a “permanent beginner.” (I’m just not particularly good at any of them!)

My Resume: The Less-Exciting Stuff

Education

Bachelor of Science, Iowa State University
Doctorate of Dental Surgery, University of Iowa
Master of Science in Dentistry, Baylor University

Publications, Teaching, and Ongoing Training

Adjunct associate professor at the University of Iowa
Regular participant in local, regional, national and international continuing education opportunities, which allows me to stay in-the-know on the latest innovations in orthodontics
Contributor to Practical Reviews in Orthodontics and the AJODO

Professional Associations

College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics
American Board of Orthodontics
American Association of Orthodontists
Midwestern Society of Orthodontists, past president
Iowa Society of Orthodontists, past president
World Federation of Orthodontists
American Dental Association
Iowa Dental Association
Baylor Orthodontic Alumni Association, past president
Smiles Change Lives

Schedule a Consultation

Hello! I’m Dr. Michael Stark.

(BUT PLEASE CALL ME DR. MICHAEL.)

I grew up watching dad transform not just smiles but his patient’s lives.

Seeing the impact that my dad, Dr. Tom, made in the community by forging real relationships with his patients and investing in their happiness was – and still is – inspiring.

I look forward to continuing my father’s legacy while bringing fresh ideas and innovations to our beloved community. Together, we aim to create even more beautiful smiles and foster a welcoming environment for all our patients.

When I’m not at the office I can be found golfing, watching sports, enjoying time at our family cabin in twin lakes and traveling with my lovely wife Taylor.