Education & Training

Dr. Maria Jividen is a board-certified orthodontist who is passionate about helping patients achieve confident, healthy smiles. With a background that blends engineering, science, and patient-centered care, she brings both precision and warmth to every orthodontic treatment.

Born on Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland, Dr. Jividen grew up in an Air Force family and had the opportunity to live in many places, including six formative years in Europe. After spending most of her education and professional career in Virginia and Washington, D.C., she proudly considers the D.C. area home and values the vibrant, diverse community that defines the region.

Dr. Jividen earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia, where she studied Systems and Information Engineering and minored in German language and literature. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and went on to complete her orthodontic specialty training at Tufts University.

Professional Expertise

Dr. Jividen is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a distinction that reflects advanced expertise and a commitment to excellence in orthodontic care. She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists, the District of Columbia Dental Society, the Northern Virginia Dental Society, the Middle Atlantic Society of Orthodontists, and the Southern Society of Orthodontists.

Before pursuing dentistry, Dr. Jividen worked as a consultant at Deloitte LLP in Washington, D.C., where she applied her engineering background to serve federal, commercial, and nonprofit clients. This experience sharpened her analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, which she now applies to creating thoughtful, personalized orthodontic treatment plans.

Philosophy of Care

Dr. Jividen believes that trust is the foundation of every successful doctor–patient relationship. Because orthodontic treatment often spans several important years in a patient’s life, she places a strong emphasis on clear communication and collaboration with both patients and their families.

Her goal is to create an environment where patients feel comfortable, informed, and confident throughout their orthodontic journey. By listening carefully to each patient’s goals and concerns, she works to ensure that treatment is both effective and a positive experience.

One of the most rewarding parts of orthodontics for Dr. Jividen is the opportunity to build long-term relationships with her patients and watch their confidence grow as their smiles transform.

Beyond the Practice

Dr. Jividen enjoys giving back to the community and has participated in local and international service trips providing dental care to underserved populations. She also works with children with special needs to help make dental visits more comfortable and positive experiences.

Outside the office, she enjoys reading, exercising, cooking, and spending time outdoors. She is close with her two sisters, who both live in Northern Virginia with their families, and recently became an aunt for the first time. At home, she is kept entertained by her clever and very hungry cat, Mr. Whiskers.

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