Meet Dr. Wagner
Changing Smiles and Improving Lives, One Person at a Time
I love being an orthodontist!
My greatest passion is being able to help people. I attended a Jesuit middle and high school, where our motto was, “Of Service to Others.” This really hit home with me and has guided my life, leading me to the health field.
It was not until the summer after high school graduation that I realized I would become an orthodontist. That summer I went to visit my uncle, who is an orthodontist, and shadowed him in his practice. I loved seeing the relationships he created, and the experience and care he gave to each of his patients. That experience awoke the spark to follow in his footsteps, to provide the best experience and quality care possible, while forging real and lasting connections with patients and their families.
Education
I grew up in Guaynabo, Metropolitan San Juan-area in Puerto Rico, and attended the University of Puerto Rico where I received my Bachelor of Science in Biology. Remaining at the University, in the School of Dental Medicine, I then obtained my Doctorate of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) in 2008.
After dental school, I completed a one-year General Practice Residency at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Following my residency, I returned to the University of Puerto Rico School of Dentistry in 2010, completing my orthodontic residency and receiving my Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD) in 2013.
Constant Learning and Professional Affiliations
The orthodontic specialty is always advancing, with research leading to new knowledge, techniques, and technologies. I regularly participate in continuing education to stay up-to-date on the latest breakthroughs and most effective innovations. This allows me to bring the most advanced diagnosis, treatment, and technology to my patients.
I am an active member of the:
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Florida Association of Orthodontists
- Southern Society of Orthodontists
- American Dental Association
These professional organizations offer numerous opportunities for me to learn from leading practitioners and apply that knowledge to the patient experience.
Awards & Recognitions
Incisal Edge dental magazine recognized Dr. Rudy M. Wagner among the 2022 “40 Under 40” top young dentists in the U.S. For a 12th consecutive year, the nation’s premier dental publication celebrates brilliant young achievers in dentistry, ages 40 and under, with its signature award 40 under 40.
Among the 2022 Incisal Edge “40 Under 40” recipients, are 40 women and 40 men from 24 states, including Dr. Rudy M. Wagner. Fewer than 700 of America’s best young dentists have earned this prestigious designation, including the 2022 inductees. View the complete list at: IncisalEdgeMagazine.com.
Dr. Wagner has also been VOTED as one of 2022 Tampa's Dentists of the Year! This special honor and recognition is given to successful dentists and their teams by Tampa Style Magazine based on fellow peers, reviews, and the community.
Beyond Orthodontics
Time with family, at our home in Wesley Chapel, is my priority when I’m not in the office.
I met my wife, Dr. Luz Desiree Visbal, in dental school. We have been together for 16 years and married for 13. She is an Endodontist and works in Citrus Park Endodontics in South Tampa and the Carrollwood area.
We have two adorable kids. Rudy Matthew is 8, very caring and loves animals, basketball, swimming, and video games. And sweet Marina, who is 6 and enjoys reading, gymnastics, cheer, arts and crafts, and hugging mom and dad as much as possible!
Our family enjoys our time together: traveling, going to the beach, boating, fishing, and supporting one another. The kids have many extracurricular interests, including basketball, soccer, and gymnastics, which keep us busy.
Having grown up on an island, most anything beach- or water-related is important to me. When I am out on the water I am at my most calm and relaxed.
