Our Offices
Providing orthodontics in Gig Harbor and Tacoma.
Let Us Introduce Our Team
Dr. Patra Alatsis would like to personally welcome you to her orthodontic offices in Tacoma and Gig Harbor.
‘‘I love to see my patients smile! That first look, after the braces come off- that smile says it all!”
Why did you choose orthodontics?
“Orthodontics is the perfect blend of art and science. It provides me with the opportunity to interact closely with my patients and their families, and grow their self-confidence by creating beautiful, healthy, and meaningful smiles! I couldn’t have asked for a more refreshing or more rewarding profession. I genuinely love what I do!
I’m excited to welcome you and your family to one of our offices in Tacoma or Gig Harbor. Our incredible team will work hard to help you love your smile.”
Dr. Patra’s Journey to Gig Harbor - Tacoma Orthodontics
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Born and raised in Tacoma, WA
“I was born and raised here in Tacoma. I attended Stadium High School (Go Tigers!) and was avidly involved in the performing arts as a dancer, singer, and pianist. I danced for Tacoma City Ballet until I graduated from high school, and recently joined the Tacoma City Ballet’s Board of Directors. I also swam for the Stadium girl’s swim team.”
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Fun fact: I used to be a substitute teacher
“I went to the University of Washington for my undergraduate degree (Go Dawgs!) and I still proudly bleed purple and gold! I was a student in the UW Honors program, excelled at math and science, and received my BS in Biology. During this time, I was also active in my sorority and served as president of the Mu chapter of Sigma Kappa Sorority at UW.
After undergrad, I spent two years teaching math and science as a substitute teacher for Tacoma Public Schools and traveling. Coolest place I visited? Singapore!”
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Pursuing my true passion: orthodontics!
“I earned my dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. After Tufts, I completed my orthodontic residency program at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) earning my Master of Science degree in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics as well as my Orthodontic Specialty Certificate.
During residency, I guest lectured for the OHSU predoctoral orthodontics course, taught for the predoc orthodontic clinic, and organized prospective resident interviews. I also studied orthodontic white spot lesions for my Master’s thesis.
Best day EVER? The day I matched with OHSU for my orthodontic residency! Learning that I got to return home to the Pacific Northwest for my orthodontic training, I was ecstatic. It was the first moment all my hopes of becoming an orthodontist weren’t just hopes anymore… they were becoming a reality!”
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Passing off the baton with Gig Harbor-Tacoma Orthodontics
“Upon graduation, I worked part-time in Oregon, eastern Washington, and northern Idaho, before moving back to my hometown to work with Dr. Scott Drake and transition his practices in Gig Harbor and Tacoma. I’m honored to continue to provide exceptional orthodontics to patients throughout our community.”
I just got my braces off this month and am so pleased with the results! Dr. Patra Alatsis and her team always went above and beyond, and the office was always a pleasure to come to. Since I had put off getting braces for years, I am glad that I experienced a smooth process with Dr. Patra and her team.
Belinda, Actual Patient at Gig Harbor Orthodontics
Your Smile Team is Ready to Help
Meet your teams in our Gig Harbor and Tacoma offices.
Learn Dr. Patra's credentials
Dr. Patra Alatsis
Dr. Patra works hard to ensure your smile and bite are harmonious. When your teeth are straight and your bite is functional, it not only provides you a beautiful smile but it allows you to eat, speak, and laugh without being in pain.
Becoming an orthodontist requires extensive training beyond dental school. Dr. Patra is an orthodontist for the Gig Harbor and Tacoma areas and is a member of many orthodontic organizations. Her memberships include:
YOUR ORTHODONTIST IN GIG HARBOR AND TACOMA
Read Alissa full bio!
Alissa
I grew up in Olalla but have lived in Gig Harbor for the last few years and love it. I enjoy traveling and exploring new places with my husband. The PNW is still one of the most beautiful places I’ve explored so far. Some of my favorite things to do are reading and cooking. I have two adorable cats named Ivy & Meka and a crazy Great Dane named Rosa.
I’m obsessed with cats and all things cats!! Hahaha. Cat things everywhere!! They are so cute!
One item on my bucket list is to scuba dive in the French Polynesian islands.
OFFICE MANAGER/PATIENT CARE COORDINATOR
Read Kimberly's full bio!
Kimberly
“I am from Tacoma, WA, and have lived here all my life. I’ve been a volunteer Baby Rocker in the NICU at Tacoma General Hospital since 2001. When I’m not in the office, I love skiing, golfing, yoga, swimming, running, hiking, gardening, cooking, and attending my grand nieces’ sporting events.”
Why did you choose orthodontics?
“I became interested in dentistry when I had braces at age 12. I loved that they gave me a beautiful smile. I wanted to do the same for other people, so I became a dental assistant. I love helping make beautiful smiles and watching our patients change and grow.”
Who is your hero?
“My dad. He was a very kind, smart man. He prepared me for life, my whole life by always planting seeds and preparing me for the challenges life brings. I am so grateful I listened to him and blessed to be his daughter.”
What’s one item on your bucket list?
“Make a hole in one!”
ORTHODONTIC ASSISTANT
Read Sophie's full bio!
Sophie
I am from Tri-Cities, Eastern Washington and moved to Gig Harbor when I was fourteen. I love all forms of art and have tried a vast variety of mediums, my absolute favorite being photography – I enjoy capturing nature, particularly oceanscapes, which is why I love living in Gig Harbor!
My spirit animal is a harbor seal. They are curious, friendly, and happy sea creatures. I like to think I mimic their characteristics, especially their curiosity since I love learning and picking up a new hobby.
I was drawn to orthodontics when I was having my own treatment here- the environment is so welcoming, and the practice is really interesting. I’ve learned so much just from working here.
I am from Tri-Cities, Eastern Washington and moved to Gig Harbor when I was fourteen. I love all forms of art and have tried a vast variety of mediums, my absolute favorite being photography – I enjoy capturing nature, particularly oceanscapes, which is why I love living in Gig Harbor!
My spirit animal is a harbor seal. They are curious, friendly, and happy sea creatures. I like to think I mimic their characteristics, especially their curiosity since I love learning and picking up a new hobby.
I was drawn to orthodontics when I was having my own treatment here- the environment is so welcoming, and the practice is really interesting. I’ve learned so much just from working here.
ORTHODONTIC ASSISTANT
Read Aleisha's full bio!
Aleisha
“I grew up in the Gig Harbor area with my two older brothers. Outside of the office, I enjoy music, kayaking, spending time near the water, and hanging out with friends and family over a cup of tea.”
Why did you choose orthodontics?
“My passion in orthodontics sparked when I had braces. I was very interested in what was going on with my teeth. I love seeing the transformation and improvement of the patient’s teeth throughout treatment.”
Who is your hero?
“My hero is my mom. She is strong, determined, and never ceases to persevere.”
What’s one item on your bucket list?
“One item on my bucket list is to travel Europe.”
What’s your spirit animal?
“I would be a dolphin because of its energy, personality, and spunk.”
ORTHODONTIC ASSISTANT