Photos by Peregrine One LLC and Robert Jones
When Dr. Chuck Sadler opened his orthodontic practice in Fishers in September 1994, he was the town’s first orthodontist.
“There were only three dentists in Fishers at that time, and no orthodontists,” he recalls. “We just kind of ended up here by accident. Since my wife worked at Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie while I attended dental school in downtown Indy, we moved into Sunblest apartments in Fishers in 1988.”
Three decades later, Sadler & Ryan Orthodontics has grown into a cornerstone of the community — a name synonymous with quality orthodontic care, community involvement and personalized service. Now co-owned by Fishers native Dr. Stu Ryan, the practice blends local roots with modern innovation, making it the longest-standing orthodontic office in Fishers.
A Legacy of Growth and Care
As Fishers has transformed from a small town into a thriving city, Sadler & Ryan Orthodontics has grown with it, helping to shape thousands of smiles along the way. Yet despite its growth, the practice has never lost its personal touch.
“It’s been such a blessing to raise my family here,” says Dr. Sadler. “And now, we’re treating the children of my original patients from the ’90s.”
For Dr. Ryan, joining the practice in 2018 and becoming a partner in 2021 was a homecoming.
“It was a dream to return to the town where I grew up and serve the community I’ve always loved,” he says. “Now, my own kids go to the same schools I did. It feels full circle.”
Community First
Deeply embedded in the community, Sadler & Ryan Orthodontics is known for more than just excellent orthodontic (Braces and Invisalign) care. The practice actively supports youth sports through Mudsock Youth Athletics, organizes annual cookie and candy buybacks benefiting the Ronald McDonald House and local food pantries, and creates scholarships for graduating high school seniors pursuing careers in dentistry.
They’re also a beloved fixture at local events like the Boo Bash, where the team shows up in costume to the delight of kids and families alike.
“Giving back is just part of who we are,” says Dr. Ryan.
People Over Process
What truly sets the practice apart is its people-first philosophy.
“We’re not just straightening teeth — we’re building relationships,” says Dr. Ryan.
That means customized treatment plans, open communication and a clinic culture that feels like home.
“By providing multiple Braces and Invisalign options and actively communicating with your general dentist, we have become a leader in adult treatment,” says Dr. Sadler.
Parents of adolescent patients are invited to be part of the process every step of the way, with chairs specifically for parents in the treatment area.
“Our communication and transparency help to serve our patients at a very high level,” Dr. Sadler adds. “I’ve always believed in taking the time to create lasting relationships with both patients and parents. That hasn’t changed — even as our technology has.”
Where High-Tech Meets High-Touch
While the practice remains rooted in traditional values, its technology is thoroughly modern.
“We’re a fully digital office now,” says Dr. Ryan. “No more goopy impressions or paper charts. We use digital scanners and 3D printers, which make everything more comfortable and precise.”
Despite the high-tech tools, the office remains warm and welcoming.
“We’re high-tech and high-touch,” says Dr. Sadler. “This place has a feel-good atmosphere.”
A Team That Feels Like Family
Both doctors are board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics — a distinction not held by every practicing orthodontist. But they’re quick to credit their tight-knit team for the practice’s success.
“We go out of our way to show appreciation for our team,” says Dr. Ryan. “They’re the backbone of everything we do.”
From outings on the Nickel Plate Express to candle-making events and team-building exercises, staff morale is a top priority.
“If you’ve got a happy team, you’ve got happy patients.”
Looking Ahead
As Sadler & Ryan Orthodontics celebrates its 30th anniversary, the mission remains unchanged: to serve our community by creating lasting relationships while providing excellent orthodontic care.
“The core values are the same,” says Dr. Sadler. “It’s still about treating people right, doing great work and making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Simply put — we change lives one smile at a time.”
For Dr. Ryan, continuing that legacy is a personal commitment.
“Fishers is home,” he says. “And it’s an honor to help shape the smiles and confidence of the next generation right here.”
From its humble beginnings as one man’s dream to its status as a technology-forward, community-centered practice, Sadler & Ryan Orthodontics has left an indelible mark on Fishers. And as they look to the future, one thing is certain: the best smiles are yet to come.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, visit sadlerorthodontics.com.
