Board Profile: Dr. Daniel J. Grob by Kyle Patton


by Kyle Patton


Dr. Daniel J. Grob Dr. Daniel J. Grob is no stranger to Orthotown. A former editorial director and long-time contributor, Grob stepped away from his role years ago to pursue a focused mission: developing systems, research and documentation centered on early orthodontic care. That mission has become the foundation of previous CE courses we’ve featured.

In this issue, Grob explores the evolution of orthodontic treatment approaches over the past 40 years. “This topic is misunderstood by clinicians, parents, and patients, as well as the medical community,” Grob says. Based in the Phoenix metro area, where he co-runs an orthodontic/pediatric dentistry practice, Grob has devoted himself to uncovering and addressing concerns surrounding early treatment—especially those tied to sleep, airway health and soft-tissue ties. “I’m working to develop research that helps clarify the benefits of early orthodontic care and answer some of the doubts that still exist in the field.”

At the heart of Grob’s approach is his “Treatment by Twelves” philosophy, a system he’s detailed in both Orthotown and Dentaltown magazines. The method simplifies treatment planning by dividing patients into three stages based on tooth eruption patterns. “Our decision making starts with the eruption of teeth, the jaw relationship, TMJ function, and the role of facial muscles and airway,” Grob explains.

Children ages 6–9 are typically developing their first 12 permanent teeth. Between ages 10–14, they’re getting the next 12. By age 15, most permanent teeth are in, marking the final opportunity to complete care in a single phase—or initiate the last step of a phased approach.

While Grob didn’t originally favor Phase I treatment, the influence of leading researchers such as Drs. James McNamara and Sean Carlson shifted his perspective. “Understanding transverse dimension has changed how I plan care,” he says. “CBCT imaging lets us predictably expand the arch to create space for all teeth. And when you recognize the impact of proper breathing and facial muscle function on the bite, it becomes clear how transformative early treatment can be.”

For Grob, nothing compares to the satisfaction of seeing those transformations firsthand. “Getting it done—that’s what keeps me going,” he says. “I love the results, the relationships with patients and families, and refining my techniques. Honestly, I’m practicing 180 degrees differently than I was taught, and I love it.” His passion for continuing education has earned him a fitting nickname from his business partner: the CE junkie.

A graduate of the Marquette University School of Dentistry, Grob completed training in dental, orthodontic, and prosthodontic specialties. He has served the communities of Tucson and Phoenix, Arizona, for more than 40 years. A diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, he is also a member of the American Association of Orthodontics and the American Dental Association.

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