October is a significant month for Dr. Alyssa Ricci, a dedicated orthodontist in Doral, Florida. Not only does it mark National Bullying Prevention Month, but it also kicks off her annual free smile giveaway—a life-changing initiative for someone who cannot afford orthodontic care. For Dr. Ricci, the connection between bullying and self-confidence is personal, and she’s committed to using her expertise to make a lasting impact on her patients and the community.
Dr. Ricci’s passion for fighting bullying stems from her childhood experiences and her Cuban heritage. Growing up, her father was bullied at school when he immigrated to the United States because he hadn’t yet learned to speak English. Moreover, she still remembers the rampant bullying that occurred daily at her own school– the name calling, the hurtful comments, and the insensitive behavior. These experiences taught her the importance of standing up for others and embracing one’s identity. It was her own orthodontic journey that transformed her confidence, which was the primary reason she chose orthodontics as a profession: she wanted to help others experience that same life-changing transformation.
Her mission goes beyond straightening teeth; it’s about creating a safe, approachable environment for all patients– regardless of age, ethnicity, personality, or physical appearance. Dr. Ricci knows firsthand how bullying can damage self-esteem, and she aims to empower her patients, making them feel confident in who they are.
In October, Dr. Alyssa Ricci passionately supported the "Bullying Bites" campaign, a national anti-bullying initiative created by the American Association of Orthodontists. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the damaging effects of bullying and to encourage others to stand together to take the ‘bite’ out of bullying. Dr. Ricci has partnered with the nonprofit organization “Stand for the Silent,” founded by the parents of a boy who tragically took his life due to bullying. Through this partnership, she spreads the message that no one should suffer in silence and that kindness can change lives.
In addition to her involvement with ‘Bullying Bites’, Dr. Ricci’s practice donates $100 per new patient to Stand for the Silent throughout the month of October. This generous contribution underscores her commitment to raising awareness and fostering empathy within the community.
While the fight against bullying is at the core of Dr. Ricci’s October initiatives, she also gives back in another profound way—by giving away a free smile. Each year, her practice selects one patient who cannot afford orthodontic care but desperately needs it. The selection is based on financial need, the severity of the case, and the patient’s story, ensuring that the recipient truly benefits from this transformative treatment.
Patients can nominate themselves or others, and Dr. Ricci personally reviews each application. The stories are often heartbreaking, filled with emotional details about the struggles individuals face. Choosing just one person is never easy, but Dr. Ricci approaches the process with empathy, knowing that this gift will dramatically change a person’s life. “Orthodontic treatment isn’t just cosmetic,” Dr. Alyssa Ricci explains. “It can change how someone feels about themselves and, in turn, how others perceive them. Giving someone the confidence to smile without fear of judgment is incredibly powerful.”
The free case giveaway is not without its challenges. Dr. Ricci recalls a patient whose smile transformation was delayed due to periodontal disease that needed treatment first. However, this experience highlighted the importance of comprehensive care and the partnerships she has developed with local dentists and periodontists to ensure that all patients receive the best possible outcome.
For Dr. Ricci, these challenges only strengthen her resolve to continue giving back. Her efforts inspire others in the community to get involved, whether through financial donations, partnerships, or simply spreading awareness about bullying.
Dr. Ricci’s anti-bullying campaign and annual smile giveaway are not just professional endeavors—they’re a reflection of her personal values. As a mother, she instills in her children the importance of confidence and kindness, teaching them to stand up for themselves and for others. She recognizes that, even at a young age, children start comparing themselves to their peers, which can lead to insecurities.“Comparison is the thief of joy,” she says, quoting Theodore Roosevelt. It’s a belief that guides her approach to both parenting and orthodontics. By encouraging her patients to embrace their individuality, she hopes to empower them to be the best versions of themselves—confident, kind, and free from the pressures of societal expectations.
As Dr. Ricci continues her anti-bullying efforts, her dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of her patients remains unwavering. Through empathy, generosity, and a commitment to self-acceptance, she’s creating a ripple effect of kindness that extends far beyond her orthodontic practice. In Doral, Florida, Dr. Alyssa Ricci isn’t just straightening teeth; she’s changing lives, one smile at a time. To follow her journey check out her Instagram and Website.