ORTHODONTIST & DENTOFACIAL ORTHOPEDIST
Dr. John Freda is a board-certified orthodontist and dentofacial orthopedist at Elite Orthodontics Group in San Diego, recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics. He treats children and adults with personalized, compassionate, leading-edge care, with training that spans clear aligners, early treatment, craniofacial and surgical orthodontics, and digital workflows.
Dr. Freda’s path to orthodontics started early and personally, and it still shapes how he cares for patients today: with empathy, attention, and a real appreciation for what a confident smile can do.
How a Childhood Accident Led to a Career
Dr. Freda’s journey in orthodontics began in the third grade, when he fractured his front teeth during a school game. That accident led to early braces, which protected his smile and helped correct a childhood lisp.
Being the first kid in his class with braces shaped how he understood confidence, speech, and the lasting impact a smile can have on a child’s life.
He chose orthodontics because he loves working with people, building relationships, and creating confident, healthy smiles that can truly change lives, and he considers the trust patients place in him a genuine honor.
Background and Education
Dr. Freda grew up in Buffalo, New York, in a close, supportive family that encouraged curiosity, discipline, and compassion. He attended Syracuse University on a full academic scholarship before returning home for dental school at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, where he graduated second in his class and was inducted into the predominant dental honor society, Omicron Kappa Upsilon.
It was there that he fell in love with orthodontics and its blend of biomechanics, artistry, and meaningful patient relationships.
That passion brought him to New York City for orthodontic residency at Montefiore Medical Center. His training included craniofacial and surgical orthodontics, clear aligners, digital workflows, and interdisciplinary care.
He received the Leo M. Davidoff Award for Excellence in Teaching and represented his program at the American Association of Orthodontists Political Action Committee Annual Session in Washington, D.C. After residency, he moved to San Diego to match his love of the outdoors and an active lifestyle, and he now treats children and adults across the full range of orthodontic care.
Board-Certified Orthodontist
Dr. John Freda is a board-certified orthodontist recognized by the American Board of Orthodontics, providing care for both children and adults. The American Board of Orthodontics is the oldest and one of the most respected specialty boards in dentistry.
Earning board certification means an orthodontist voluntarily completes a rigorous evaluation by peers, demonstrating advanced knowledge, clinical skill, and a commitment to ongoing excellence. His training in clear aligners and braces, early treatment, and interdisciplinary care lets him tailor a thoughtful plan to each patient.
Community Engagement
Giving back has been part of Dr. Freda’s training from the start. One of his favorite dental school experiences was a mission trip to La Romana in the Dominican Republic through Remote Area Medical (RAM), providing care to people with little access to it. That spirit of service continues to shape how he approaches his work. Se habla español.
Professional Affiliations
Dr. Freda’s memberships reflect a strong commitment to ongoing education, ethical practice, and staying current with the latest advancements in orthodontics. They include:
- American Dental Association
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists
- California Association of Orthodontists
- California Dental Association
- Diplomate, American Board of Orthodontics
- San Diego County Dental Health Foundation
- American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine
His membership in the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine reflects an interest in how orthodontics and breathing connect, which complements the practice’s airway-focused orthodontics and care for snoring and sleep concerns.
Personal Interests
When he is not in the office, Dr. Freda is usually rock climbing, his biggest hobby, or out hiking, skiing, exploring new places, or spending time with family and friends. And even under the San Diego sun, he remains a proud Buffalo Bills fan.
