Why orthodontics
I believe true success comes from doing something you’re passionate about every day. Orthodontics unexpectedly brought together so many things I care about — science, problem-solving, creativity, teaching, relationships, and the chance to make a real difference in someone’s life. I still come to work excited, and I don’t think about retiring.
Why San Francisco
One of the greatest joys of practicing in the city I grew up in is caring for families over many years. I might first meet a child when they’re seven or eight, watch them grow through middle school and high school, and later see them return as young adults — or bring in children of their own. Those relationships are why I’m here.
Why independent
Owning an independent practice lets me practice orthodontics the way I believe it should ideally be practiced. I can take the time to understand each patient, walk through the different options, and design treatment around their individual needs rather than a standardized plan. I can invest in new technology when it truly improves care, spend extra time on a difficult case, and stay personally involved from the first consultation through the final result and retention. It also gives me the freedom to keep learning, researching, teaching, and questioning how we can do things better — orthodontics keeps evolving, and I find it as intellectually exciting today as when I started.
Most of all, I feel fortunate to do this work in the city where I grew up, alongside people I respect, caring for families who often become part of our Bella Smile community for years.
Family
Outside the practice, Dr. Shen Garnett lives with her husband, Eben, and daughters Maisy and Lucy. Maisy attends Stanford, and Lucy is a competitive dancer — making her a proud Stanford mom and dance mom who loves cheering her girls on.
Community
Giving back has shaped Dr. Shen Garnett’s career since Harvard, where she founded Project Bridge, a dental clinic for homeless teens, earning the 2001 Harvard Community Service Award. Today she volunteers with National Charity League alongside Lucy and supports Maisy’s charitable projects.
San Francisco
San Francisco has always been home. Dr. Shen Garnett grew up here, attended Burke’s and San Francisco University High School, then Stanford — and with family still in the Bay Area, she loves caring for patients in the city that raised her.
Outside the chair
When she’s not in the office, Dr. Shen Garnett plays golf and tennis, explores healthier eating, and spends time with family and friends. She’s also a devoted fan of K-dramas, K-beauty, and fashion — favorite topics with her patients.
Stanford mom. Dance mom. Founder of Project Bridge. Orthodontist for 20 years and counting.
