At Essex County Moms, we love connecting with local moms who are balancing family, career, and community and today’s featured mom is doing all three with a smile. Meet Dr. Lizz (Elizabeth Clanaman), founder of Essex Orthodontics, mom to an energetic toddler, and a passionate business owner dedicated to helping families feel confident in their smiles.
We recently sat down with Dr. Lizz to chat about motherhood, building a business, and her favorite spots around Essex County.
Tell us a little about yourself!
My name is Elizabeth Clanaman, though most of my patients know me as Dr. Lizz!
How many kids do you have?
I have one daughter, Siena, who is almost 21 months old.
What are some of your favorite family activities in Essex County?
We love getting outside and exploring local parks and playgrounds. Some of our favorites are Verona Park, Turtle Back Zoo, Regatta Playground, and Taylor Park. There are so many wonderful family-friendly places throughout Essex County, and we’re always finding new ones to enjoy.
What do you love most about living and working in Essex County?
I love how supportive, friendly, and close-knit the community is. There’s such a great mix of families, small businesses, excellent schools, and vibrant neighborhoods. As both a mom and a business owner, it’s incredibly rewarding to build relationships with local families and be part of a community that truly values connection, kindness, and supporting one another.
Tell us about Essex Orthodontics and how you got started.
I started Essex Orthodontics with a simple vision: to create a modern, family-oriented orthodontic practice that delivers exceptional care in a highly personalized setting.
After years of working in other offices, I wanted to build a boutique practice where relationships come first and every treatment plan is thoughtfully tailored to the individual. I wanted patients to feel known, heard, and cared for every step of the way.
What can families expect as patients at Essex Orthodontics?
Patients can expect one-on-one care, clear communication, and a treatment experience centered around their unique needs and goals. You’ll always see me at your appointments, never feel rushed, and receive recommendations designed specifically for your smile and lifestyle.
What do you love most about your job?
Without question, it’s the relationships I build with patients and their families.
Orthodontic treatment often lasts months or even years, which means I get to celebrate so many milestones alongside my patients, from school achievements and sports seasons to engagements, weddings, and growing families.
And of course, there’s nothing quite like the moment a patient sees their new smile for the first time. Watching someone light up with confidence and pride in their results is incredibly rewarding and reminds me why I love what I do.
As moms, we’re always curious, what does life look like balancing motherhood and business ownership?
I love including my daughter in this journey whenever I can, whether she’s my little helper at the office or joining me at community events.
I’ve learned to be fully present wherever I am, focused on my patients when I’m at work and focused on my family when I’m at home. Becoming a mother has also given me a deeper appreciation for the trust families place in me.
I also hope I’m showing my daughter that women can pursue their passions, build meaningful careers, and still prioritize the people they love most.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received from another mom?
My mom has always told me that while every stage comes with its challenges, it’s worth appreciating the season you’re in instead of always looking ahead to the next one.
That perspective has stayed with me and reminds me to slow down, enjoy the everyday moments, and try my best not to take this time for granted.
One Last Thing…
We love meeting local moms who are making an impact in our community, and Dr. Lizz is doing just that. Through Essex Orthodontics, she’s creating a welcoming experience for families while helping patients build confidence through healthy, beautiful smiles.
Whether she’s cheering on her daughter at the playground, connecting with local families, or transforming smiles in her practice, Dr. Lizz is a wonderful example of a mom following her passion while staying rooted in what matters most.