Meet Our Team
Michele Shems, DMD, ABO Board Certified
President of Maine Association of Orthodontists (2018–2024)
Dr. Michele Shems is a board certified orthodontist dedicated to delivering personalized and precise care. Her approach balances advanced clinical expertise with genuine connection and kindness. Dr. Shems has been a top rated orthodontist in the Portland area for over 25 years and has crafted thousands of beautiful and confident smiles.
Board certification is a testament to Dr. Shems’s commitment to the highest standards of clinical excellence and patient care. This distinction is one of the few lifetime certifications. Read More to learn how Dr. Shems attained her lifetime Board Certifications.
Being in orthodontics is a rewarding journey. It’s not only about crafting beautiful smiles but also about forming incredibly special and meaningful connections with our patients and communities for over 25 years. It is a privilege to be part of the journey of our young patients’ steps towards adulthood. It’s a unique and heartwarming experience. Dr Michele Shems is a board certified orthodontist with a passion for serving her community through thoughtful personalized care. She provides comprehensive orthodontic treatment for patients of all ages from kids to adults and seniors- using clear aligners, 3D printed Lightforce and traditional braces.
Experience & Education
- Intensive Aligner Fellowship 2018-present
- University of Vermont BA in History
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine DMD
- Tufts University School of Dental Medicine Residency and Certificate in Orthodontics
- Lifetime Board Certified, American Board of Orthodontics
- Masters Certification in Invisalign
- Guest speaker for Invisalign-Europe and US
Professional Memberships
- College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics
- American Association of Orthodontists
- President of Maine Association of Orthodontists (2018 - 2024)
- American Dental Association
- American Board of Orthodontics
- Masters CertificatTufts Association of Orthodontistson in Invisalign
- New England Society of Orthodontists
- Casco Bay Study Club – Orthodontic Advisor
- New England Orthodontic Study Club
Beyond the Practice
- Loves all kinds of activities: hiking, biking, skiing, uphill skiing, fitness classes, any sort of movement especially with friends
- Born and raised in Maine and returned to raise a family after living in Palm Beach County, FL
- Dual citizenship with France – love all things French
- Love to travel and adventure in the outdoors
- Enjoying having fun with her three children and two dogs
- Survivor
My Work Tribe with heart
There is not a day that I do not receive compliments about how outstanding my team is! Every woman in this office is my dear friend, teacher and trusted right hand. Together these amazing women are truly one of the secrets to the success of the practice.
Michele Shems, DMD, PA
There is not a day that I do not receive compliments about how outstanding my team is! Every woman in this office is my dear friend, teacher and trusted right hand. Together these amazing women are truly one of the secrets to the success of the practice.
Janet, Practice Manager
I have proudly worked alongside Dr. Shems since 2008. I
appreciate her conservative and personal approach to
orthodontics, and I know patients do as well! As Practice
Manager, I am here to make sure your experience with us is top
notch. Having worked as an orthodontic assistant for 12 years,
I’m always available to answer questions related to your
orthodontic treatment or your account. Our goal is for every
patient to receive quality care based on their individual needs.
I have two grown children and blessed to live near both of
them. I am honored to carry on our Italian families’ tradition of
being called “Nunnie” and so fortunate to love on my three
beautiful grandchildren.
Penny, Clinical Assistant & Lab Technician
I became a huge fan of orthodontics when I found myself as an orthodontic patient! I realized the positive impact that having a great smile had on my self-esteem. I wanted to be part of making others just as happy! I’ve been in the orthodontic field for over 27 years, and with Dr. Shems for 21. I’m a clinical assistant and a lab technician. I make all of our patients’ retainers and other appliances in our in-house lab and am also a trained orthodontic assistant. I love seeing the smile on a patient’s face when their braces come off! I’m a bit quiet, but I get the job done.
I love my job, and when I’m not working, you may find me out kayaking, walking/hiking, riding my mountain or spin bike and hanging out with my kitty Milo
Shannon, Treatment Coordinator & Senior Orthodontic Assistant
I learned my skill while serving in the USAF and have been in the dental field for over 30 years. I have worked alongside Dr. Shems for 20 years and I love it!! What I enjoy most is helping to bring knowledge and build confidence within our patients and being a part of creating their beautiful smile.
When I’m not in the office I enjoy spending time with my family especially my grandson, friends, playing board games, being outside for hikes or beach days, my absolute favorite!
Recently, started volunteering with Hospice-something very special to my heart.
I love playing with my dogs Buddy and Jovie as well!
Carolyn, Clinical Supervisor
After growing up in Massachusetts, I began my career in orthodontics fifteen years ago while living in Florida. Since making my way back to New England in 2012, I am so fortunate to have continued my journey with Dr. Shems in an office which provides top-notch care to every patient. My goal is to use my knowledge and skills to provide exceptional orthodontic care in a comfortable, professional environment. I feel blessed to be a part of each patient’s journey in achieving a healthy, beautiful smile they can be proud of.
When I am not in the office, I enjoy spending time with my family and fur babies. I also love to be outdoors, especially in the garden. On rainy days, I test my skills in the kitchen cooking favorite dishes and trying new recipes.
Marie, Orthodontic Assistant
I have over 37 years of experience in the dental field. I find it rewarding working with patients of all ages to give them a beautiful smile. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, baking, knitting and outdoor activities.
Danielle, Financial Coordinator
I am so grateful to work alongside Dr. Shems and her amazing team. I have several years experience in the orthodontic field. I am here to help patients with the financial process. I desire to make it as easy and seamless as possible. One of the most rewarding parts of working in the orthodontic field is helping patients achieve the beautiful smile they have dreamed of.
When I am not at work, I enjoy spending my time with my family. My husband and I have two boys Noah and Jamison. Also I love spending time with all our fur babies! We enjoy hiking, camping, fishing and four wheeling.
Lisa, Orthodontic Assistant
After many years in the dental field, I have developed a deep appreciation for providing compassionate, high-quality patient care. With over 32 years of experience as an orthodontic assistant and 7 years as a dental assistant, I bring a comprehensive background and a strong commitment to excellence in every aspect of my work.
Throughout my career, I have developed strong clinical skills and a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach that helps ensure each patient feels comfortable, informed, and confident during their visit I take great pride in supporting both my team and our patients by creating a welcoming, professional environment and delivering a consistently high standard of care. Being part of each patient’s journey toward a healthy, beautiful smile is truly rewarding.
Outside of the office, my husband and I enjoy taking motorcycle trips during the summer and spending time at the beach. We have two adult children and two cats we adopted from a local shelter.
Lola, Our Resident Smile Maker
Lola is our adorable Pomsky and the most popular member of our team. She loves greeting our patients with a wagging tail, soaking up all the love, and collecting tummy rubs from happy smiles everywhere she goes. Whether you are here for braces, Invisalign, or just to say hi — Lola will make sure your visit is the best part of your day!