Your Raleigh Orthodontist
Meet Dr. Phillip Hamilton
Dr. Hamilton is a North Carolina native and a third-generation orthodontist, so you could say orthodontics is in his DNA!
Growing up in Denver, NC, with an orthodontist father and a dental hygienist mother, the path to a career in dentistry seemed destined. From an early age, he was helping out at his dad’s office, trimming models and learning the art of creating beautiful smiles.
His favorite part of orthodontics?
“Every smile tells a story, and I love being a part of that journey. I get to know each patient personally, and together, we craft a treatment that fits their lifestyle. Watching their confidence grow with a new smile is the best reward!” - Dr. Hamilton
Education & Experience
Despite his family ties to the profession, Dr. Hamilton’s curiosity led him to Chapel Hill, eager to explore new opportunities in college. After dabbling in different majors and taking a year off to find his passion, he embarked on a life-changing journey: hiking over 2,000 miles of the Appalachian Trail!
It was on this adventure, surrounded by nature, that he realized orthodontics truly was his calling.
Dr. Hamilton earned his bachelor’s degree in biology and religious studies at UNC Chapel Hill. Before heading to dental school, he worked as an orthodontic assistant, learning the ropes of patient care and orthodontic treatments firsthand.
He then completed his dental degree at UNC and stayed on to specialize in orthodontics, where he trained with some of the best, including the legendary Dr. Bill Proffit.
During his residency, Dr. Hamilton conducted research on clear aligners and Invisalign, honing his expertise in cutting-edge orthodontic treatments.
Memberships & Affiliations
Dr. Hamilton couldn’t be more thrilled to practice in the Triangle, where the dental community is as vibrant as the area itself.
He’s involved in several study clubs and alumni groups, including:
- American Association of Orthodontists
- American Dental Association
- North Carolina Association of Orthodontists
- Raleigh-Wake County Dental Association
- Southern Association of Orthodontists
- University of North Carolina Orthodontic Alumni Association
Through his engagement with the larger orthodontic community, Dr. Hamilton strives to stay up-to-date on the latest orthodontic technologies to continue improving the premium care we strive for at Hamilton Orthodontics.
Outside of the Office
While at UNC, Dr. Hamilton met his wife, CJ, who could always spot him on campus thanks to his lime-green bike seat! Their relationship took a fun twist when CJ fully supported his six-month Appalachian Trail hike, even joining him on parts of the trek.
They were married in Chapel Hill and moved back to Raleigh to be closer to CJ’s family. CJ is a Raleigh native and a practicing physical therapist working with UNC Hospitals specializing in neurological rehab.
They have three energetic daughters: Tatem, Paige, and Erin. The family—along with their lovable (and sometimes forgotten!) brown dog, Scout—enjoys life in the Triangle area, where they’re always outdoors: hiking, biking, and exploring parks.
When he’s not transforming smiles, Dr. Hamilton enjoys working on home improvement projects, building Legos with his daughters, and embracing the simple joys of family life.
A lifelong cycling enthusiast, he finds joy in both riding and repairing bikes, appreciating the fascinating overlap between the technicalities of bike mechanics and orthodontics. Whether he’s biking, running, or tending to yard work, Dr. Hamilton loves staying active and spending time outdoors.