Dr. Scott Morita and the Spirit of Aloha

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Dr. Scott Morita and the Spirit of Aloha   

A lifelong commitment to care, connection, and giving back to his community

Practicing orthodontics in Hawai`i is unlike anywhere else, says Dr. Scott Morita, whose Oahu-based practice is as community-minded as it is clinical. “The spirit of aloha extends beyond daily life into the professional community,” he explains. “Our dental and orthodontic societies share a deep sense of camaraderie—in fact, we’re proud to have 100% AAO membership among orthodontists in the state.”

But paradise has its practical challenges. Hawai`i’s geography and family-focused culture shape how orthodontists deliver care. “While our islands are small, patients are often reluctant to travel far, so most orthodontists maintain two office locations to serve their communities,” Morita says. “Unlike many mainland colleagues who take Fridays and Saturdays off, most Hawai`i orthodontists work both days to accommodate family schedules and community needs.” He laughs at the cliché that practicing here means “working in paradise.” “It is a beautiful place to live,” he adds, “but we face logistical and financial hurdles from shipping costs, travel, and staffing, yet the sense of community more than makes up for it.”

Morita’s commitment to that community runs deep. His involvement in organized dentistry began as a student at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry, where he served as class president and joined outreach programs both locally and abroad. His exposure to care delivery in underserved areas shaped how he approaches community dentistry today, emphasizing access, prevention, and partnership over volume. “Those experiences instilled in me a strong belief in organized dentistry as a platform for collaboration and service,” he says. After returning home, he chaired the Hawaii Dental Association’s Young Dentist Program and founded the state’s first Give Kids a Smile Hawaii event to serve children in need and unite the dental community through outreach.

That early initiative grew into something far larger. “For over a decade, I led the Young Dentist Group, focusing on creating CE and networking opportunities tailored to early-career professionals,” Morita says. “As I transitioned into mid-career, I recognized the importance of continuing mentorship and leadership development for the next generation.” Through Give Kids a Smile Hawaii, he helped establish the Hawaii Dental Association Foundation (HDAF) and served as its first secretary. “Today, as president of HDAF, my goal is to strengthen its impact as the philanthropic arm of our profession—ensuring we continue to serve Hawai`i’s keiki [children] and communities in need for generations to come.”

Morita’s passion for outreach predates dental school. “My passion for outreach began before dental school while volunteering at USC’s community dental clinics,” he recalls. “That experience inspired me to pursue dentistry as a way to directly improve people’s lives.” Hawai`i’s high rate of childhood caries, driven partly by the lack of fluoride in local water supplies and limited oral health education, keeps that mission close to his heart. “I attended the ADA’s Give Kids a Smile Ambassador program to bring the initiative to our state,” he says, “helping to connect volunteers, sponsors, and community partners to care for thousands of local children each year.”

Asked what guidance he offers to younger orthodontists, Morita doesn’t hesitate. “Start by connecting with your local county component or state dental association,” he advises. “These organizations provide the mentorship, resources, and relationships that open doors to leadership, continuing education, and community outreach. Even small contributions can lead to meaningful impact and lifelong professional connections,” he continues.

Orthodontics is also a family legacy for him. His late father was a respected figure in the Hawai`i orthodontic community. “My father loved the collaborative side of orthodontics,” Morita says. “He and his peers formed a local study club, believing that by sharing knowledge and experiences, they could collectively elevate care for our community.” To honor that tradition, Morita helped establish a new study club with his peers. “I think he would be most proud to see that spirit of teamwork with fellow orthodontists and service living on.”

Looking ahead, Morita sees digital technology as both an opportunity and an obstacle. “Orthodontics is becoming increasingly digital, from scanning to remote appliance fabrication,” he explains. “While this improves efficiency and precision, outsourcing more work inevitably raises overhead costs. To remain sustainable, practices must plan strategically, investing in technology while maintaining flexibility in operations and budgeting for higher lab expenses. Long-term success will rely on adaptability of the ever-changing orthodontic profession.” Like many practitioners, Morita balances technological innovation with the realities of small-island logistics. New 3D printing and remote monitoring tools have brought precision and convenience, but also require strategic investment and staff training to stay efficient and financially viable.

Outside the office, Morita finds joy in simple island traditions. “We feel so fortunate that our profession allows us time to enjoy Hawai`i’s beauty and community,” Morita says. “Potlucks are a local favorite; they bring friends and family together to share food, laughter, and stories.” He also treasures ocean time. “I love longboarding at Ala Moana Beach Park,” he adds. “My 3-year-old daughter is currently in swim lessons, and I’m excited for the day we can surf together. Those moments remind me why balance, family, and gratitude are at the heart of everything we do here in Hawai`i.” For Morita, life in Hawai`i offers a daily reminder that professional success means little without community connection and gratitude. 

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