A confident smile changes everything. It changes how students walk into a classroom, how athletes compete on the field, and how young leaders step up to make their community better. At Laredo Orthodontics, we've seen this transformation thousands of times since opening our doors in 1985 as the first orthodontic practice in Laredo—and we believe giving back to the community that shaped us is just as important as the smiles we create.
Board-certified orthodontists Dr. Catalina Zambrano and Dr. Andrea Font Rytzner lead our team in partnerships with local schools, youth programs, and nonprofit organizations throughout Laredo and Zapata County. These connections go far beyond sponsorship logos. They represent our commitment to celebrating achievement, supporting positive role models, and investing in the young people who will shape Laredo's future.
Recognizing Excellence in Laredo's Middle Schools
Every month, one exceptional eighth grader from each of Laredo's 23 middle schools is honored through the KGNS 8th Grader of the Month program. Organized in partnership with the Laredo Police Department and KGNS, this initiative spotlights students who excel academically, demonstrate leadership, and contribute positively to their school communities.
Laredo Orthodontics is proud to serve as an official sponsor of this program. Dr. Zambrano, who graduated at the top of her class from Tecnologico de Monterrey before earning her Master of Science in Orthodontics from UT Health San Antonio, understands firsthand how recognition can fuel ambition. Celebrating students who work hard and give back reinforces the values that build strong communities—and confident smiles.
Honoring Nonprofits and Community Champions
The people and organizations doing quiet, transformative work in Laredo deserve recognition. That's why we also sponsor the KGNS Honors+ program, which shares the stories of individuals and nonprofits making a meaningful difference throughout our community.
From food banks to mentorship programs to volunteer organizations, Honors+ brings visibility to the efforts that often go unnoticed. Supporting this program allows us to amplify the work of Laredo's unsung heroes and inspire others to get involved.
Building Relationships with Local Schools
Strong partnerships with educators help us reach families where they are. Laredo Orthodontics collaborates with schools including Alma Elementary, Triumph High School, and Texas A&M International University to provide oral health education, mouthguard fittings for student-athletes, and complimentary orthodontic consultations.
These school-based visits accomplish more than clinical outreach. When students meet Dr. Font Rytzner—who earned her orthodontic specialty training at Case Western Reserve University after studying in Madrid and Munich—they see a healthcare professional who genuinely cares about their wellbeing. That positive early experience shapes how young people view dental care for years to come.
For student-athletes, custom mouthguard fittings protect both teeth and braces during competition. Whether your child plays football at a Laredo ISD school or competes in basketball, soccer, or other contact sports, a properly fitted mouthguard prevents injuries that could interrupt orthodontic treatment or damage teeth.
Why Community Investment Matters to Oral Health
The connection between community engagement and orthodontic care might not seem obvious at first. But confidence and self-care are deeply intertwined.
When students are recognized for academic achievement, leadership, or community service, their self-esteem grows. Young people who feel valued take better care of themselves—including their oral health. They're more likely to brush consistently, wear their retainers, and attend regular appointments. They see orthodontic care not as something being done to them, but as an investment in their own future.
Our presence at community events also makes orthodontic visits feel less intimidating. Families who meet our team at a health fair or school presentation already have a familiar face to greet them when they walk through our doors. That comfort level matters, especially for children who may feel anxious about dental care.
Supporting Laredo's Traditions and Teams
Community involvement extends to the celebrations and activities that bring Laredo together. Laredo Orthodontics proudly sponsors the George Washington Festival and supports local dance teams, band programs, and athletic organizations throughout the region.
These sponsorships reflect our belief that orthodontic care is about more than straightening teeth. It's about supporting the activities that help young people grow, build friendships, and develop discipline. When we sponsor a dance team or help fund band uniforms, we're investing in the experiences that shape Laredo's next generation.
State-of-the-Art Care Rooted in Laredo
Our commitment to community is matched by our commitment to excellence in orthodontic treatment. Laredo Orthodontics uses advanced technology including intraoral cameras, panoramic X-rays, and 3D imaging to develop precise, personalized treatment plans for every patient.
Dr. Zambrano and Dr. Font Rytzner offer a full range of orthodontic options for children, teens, and adults, including traditional metal and ceramic braces, Invisalign clear aligners, Spark Aligners, and accelerated treatment options. We also understand that cost shouldn't prevent families from pursuing care. Flexible payment plans, in-house financing, a cash discount, and CareCredit partnerships ensure beautiful smiles remain within reach for Laredo families.
How You Can Get Involved
Community partnerships work best when everyone participates. Here's how you can join us in celebrating Laredo's achievements:
- Nominate a Student: Know an eighth grader who excels academically, leads by example, or gives back to their community? Talk to their school counselor about the KGNS 8th Grader of the Month program.
- Invite Us to Your School or Event: Teachers, coaches, and administrators can request educational presentations, mouthguard fittings, or "meet the orthodontist" sessions by contacting our office.
- Share Your Story: If you've completed orthodontic treatment and are now a role model in your school or community, we'd love to feature your journey on our blog or social media.
- Follow Along: Connect with us on social media to see our community spotlight posts and help us celebrate the people making Laredo better.
Schedule Your Consultation at Laredo Orthodontics
For nearly four decades, Laredo Orthodontics has been part of this community—not just located in Laredo, but woven into its schools, events, and families. Dr. Catalina Zambrano, Dr. Andrea Font Rytzner, and our entire team are honored to continue this legacy of care and connection.
Whether you're ready to start your orthodontic journey or interested in partnering with us on a community initiative, we'd love to hear from you. Contact Laredo Orthodontics at (956) 628-7372 or email info@laredoorthodontics.com to schedule a consultation or discuss collaboration opportunities. Visit us at 802 E Calton Rd. in Laredo, serving families throughout Central Laredo, La Presa, Los Arcos, and Zapata County.
