Meet Dr. Thomas Crary

Achieving Beautiful Smiles, One Person at a Time

For Dr. Thomas Crary, a career in orthodontics is a dream come true. He loves helping patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles while getting to know each person throughout their treatment journey.

From the first visit, Dr. Crary focuses on establishing open, clear communication with both his patients and their families. After reviewing each patient’s unique situation and discussing their concerns and goals, he works with them to develop a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Crary takes the time to explain every detail, including available options, so each patient fully understands what to expect and what is needed to achieve the best possible outcome. Throughout the course of treatment, he provides regular updates, encouragement, and support, ensuring each patient develops the confident smile they deserve.

Dr. Crary was drawn to orthodontics as a way to connect with people and help them achieve a healthier, happier life. As someone who enjoys solving problems and has a keen eye for design, he found that orthodontics offered the perfect application of these skills. An engineer by training, Dr. Crary is known for his innovative thinking, high standards, and the genuine compassion he shows to every patient.

Education and Professional Development

Dr. Crary’s educational journey began with an undergraduate degree in Engineering from Iowa State University. His engineering background has proven invaluable in his orthodontic practice, enabling him to approach complex cases with creative problem-solving and innovative thinking—skills that serve his patients well.

He continued his education at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, where he earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) and graduated in the top of his class. Dr. Crary's exceptional academic performance was recognized with numerous awards, including:

Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Society (Spring 2016) – Selection by faculty committee based on character and overall performance in dental school.
Mary Ann Vercande Scholarship (Spring 2016) – Awarded for demonstrating care and compassion for patients, presented by the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Brian D. Stone Memorial Award (Spring 2016) – Recognizing excellence in the geriatrics and special needs clinic.
Joel Huth and June Huth Mello Scholarship (Spring 2016) – Awarded for aptitude for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment.
Pre-doctoral Teaching Award in Orthodontics (Spring 2016) – Recognizing contributions to the pre-doctoral orthodontic curriculum.
Iowa Dental Foundation Scholarship (Spring 2015) – Awarded to students pursuing higher education in dentistry, based on academic excellence, leadership, research experience, philanthropy, and financial need.
The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics Fenton Memorial Award (Spring 2015) – Recognizing an outstanding junior student in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for excellence in basic science subjects.
The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics Dental Class of 1923 Award (Spring 2015) – Presented to a junior dental student based on academic excellence.
American Dental Association Foundation Pre-doctoral Dental Student Scholarship (Spring 2014) – Granted to facilitate the education of academically gifted dental students.
The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics Dental Class of 1929 Award (Spring 2013) – Awarded to the student with the highest academic standing at the completion of the first year.
The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics Dean’s Academic Recognition Award (2012-2013, 2013-2014) – Recognized for academic excellence in both the dental and basic science curricula.
The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics Dean’s Student Leadership Award (2013, 2014, 2015) – Awarded for outstanding leadership contributions throughout Dr. Crary’s time in dental school.
Carl Svare Pre-Doctoral Research Award (Spring 2016) – Awarded for exceptional research in the field of dental materials, particularly biomaterials.

Dr. Crary’s commitment to excellence continued as he pursued his Master of Science and Certificate in Orthodontics from the University of Iowa, where his advanced training included a rigorous academic program and clinical residency. His work in orthodontics and biomaterials earned him additional accolades in research and academic performance.

After completing his orthodontic training, Dr. Crary immediately sought Board Certification by the American Board of Orthodontics. This voluntary credential is a mark of distinction that sets him apart as an expert in his field, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of orthodontic care.

Professional Experience & Research Contributions

Dr. Crary’s dedication to staying at the cutting edge of orthodontic care is evident in his involvement with 3M’s Oral Care Division (now Solventum) as a consultant. In this role, he collaborates with engineers to develop new orthodontic products, ensuring that patients benefit from the latest advancements in the field. Additionally, Dr. Crary speaks at national conferences, sharing his expertise in innovative orthodontic techniques and presenting complex case studies to colleagues in the profession.

Professional Memberships

Board Certified by The American Board of Orthodontics
American Association of Orthodontists
Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society
Key Opinion Leader and Consultant at Solventum

Dr. Crary remains committed to ongoing education and professional development, ensuring his patients always receive the best care and the most advanced treatments available.

Beyond the Practice

When he’s not busy perfecting smiles, Dr. Crary dives headfirst into adventure! A passionate scuba diver, he loves exploring new destinations and the wonders they hold beneath the waves. Whether he’s navigating the open waters in a kayak or enjoying a leisurely boat ride, staying active in the great outdoors is his kind of fun.

At home, the spirit of adventure continues with his wife, Katie, a talented physical therapist. Together, they are excitedly preparing for their newest adventure: welcoming a baby girl in May 2025! Their home is a hub of warmth and joy, where they enjoy cooking up delicious meals, hosting family and friends, and making memories that last a lifetime.

When he’s not out exploring, you might find Dr. Crary in DIY mode, channeling his creativity into home improvement projects. From building bookshelves to transforming spaces, he finds satisfaction in every completed task.

Join Dr. Crary on this journey filled with smiles, adventure, and the joy of family!