For Dr. Mark Eckler, orthodontics has always been more than a career—it’s a legacy, one that began in childhood as he learned about the profession from his father. Born into a family deeply embedded in healthcare, the course of Dr. Eckler’s life was, in some ways, preordained. His father was a certified orthodontist, and the family’s dinner table discussions often revolved around the nuances of patient care and clinical excellence. “I was exposed to orthodontics from a very young age,” Eckler recalls. “When I was 10 years old, my dad taught me how to analyze cephalogram x-rays and perform basic measurements. He even paid me 50 cents per image.” It wasn’t just a learning experience—it was the foundation for a lifelong passion.
Yet, despite this early exposure, it was the autonomy of dentistry that ultimately attracted Eckler. “Dentistry offered me the opportunity to help people while maintaining a level of independence that other areas of healthcare don’t always provide,” he explains. After completing his dentistry degree at the University of Western Ontario in 1993, Eckler pursued a residency at McGill University, followed by specialized training at St. Louis University’s Orthodontic Program, where he earned a Master’s in Dentistry. By 1997, he was ready to embark on what would become a successful and multifaceted career.
A practicing orthodontist for over two decades, Dr. Eckler has built a reputation not just for his technical expertise but also for his approach to patient care, customer service, and his passion for staying on the cutting edge of innovation.
Orthodontics: A Long Game with a Big Impact
Dr. Eckler’s professional approach is marked by a focus on the long-term benefits of orthodontics—both functionally and aesthetically. “Orthodontics is like a chess game,” he says. “It’s about planning, precision, and playing the long game. The work we do isn’t just about straightening teeth; it’s about how the entire mouth functions as a whole.”
Eckler’s patient base, initially composed mostly of children and adolescents, has shifted over the years to include a growing number of adults, many of whom are attracted to the newer, more discreet treatments now available. “Aligners have transformed the orthodontic landscape,” he explains. “They offer a nearly invisible and highly effective option for patients who want to improve their smiles but don’t want the traditional metal braces.” This has made orthodontics more accessible to a broader audience, especially adults who are more conscious of dental aesthetics.
Eckler’s commitment to his patients extends beyond the clinical. For years, his practice, with offices in Mississauga and Brampton, thrived not just on the quality of care he provided but on the reputation he built. “Education, experience, integrity, and good customer service are what set a practice apart,” he explains. He’s a firm believer in the power of word-of-mouth referrals, which have historically accounted for much of his patient base. “In a competitive market, trust is everything,” Eckler says.
In 2018, Eckler sold his practice, a move that allowed him to focus on other pursuits while still maintaining an active role in the clinic. “Selling the practice gave me the freedom to explore new areas while continuing to work as an orthodontist part-time,” he says. Today, he still treats patients in the same offices, balancing his clinical responsibilities with a growing interest in innovation and teaching.
Blending Dentistry and Entrepreneurship
In addition to his work in orthodontics, Eckler is also an entrepreneur. He co-founded InsideDesk, a software startup that helps dental practices in the United States streamline their administrative tasks. Specifically, the platform uses robotic automation to handle the often-cumbersome task of collecting account receivables from insurance companies—a process that can be time-consuming for dental practices and dental service organizations (DSOs).
His venture into the tech world is a natural extension of his desire to improve the efficiency of dental practices. “I’ve always been interested in finding ways to optimize operations,” he explains. “In dentistry, the clinical side is only part of the picture. You can make the business side more efficient and still provide excellent care for your patients.”
The Teacher and Mentor
Eckler’s commitment to the dental community doesn’t stop at technology. Dr. Eckler has always maintained an active role in the dental community. He’s served as the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) representative for the Halton Peel Dental Association and held positions on several committees at the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO), including as Chair of the Finance, Risk, and Audit Committee while serving as a council member. He also serves on the CDSPI Advisory Panel, contributing his expertise to ensure that dental professionals are well-supported in areas like financial planning and insurance.
He’s a passionate educator who regularly speaks at conferences and lectures on customer service for the ODA and the Halton Peel Dental Association. “Sharing my knowledge with the dental community is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career,” he says. “It’s exciting to see new professionals coming into the field with fresh ideas and a drive to learn.”
Next year, Dr. Eckler will again be presenting at the ODA’s annual spring meeting, continuing his mission to ensure that the quality of patient care remains at the forefront of the profession. “In an industry that’s constantly evolving, it’s crucial to keep learning,” he adds. “The more we can share and collaborate, the better the outcomes will be for patients.”
Family and Life Beyond the Office
While his professional achievements are numerous, Dr. Eckler’s personal life is equally rich. He and his wife, Sharon who works in the not-for-profit sector, are parents to two daughters, Jaime and Alexandra, both of whom are currently studying at Western University.
Then there’s Izzy, the family’s 11-year-old rescue dog, with Labrador enthusiasm and Wolfhound wisdom. “We’ve always had rescue dogs,” Eckler shares. “They bring so much joy into our lives.” In his spare time, Eckler has embraced hobbies, including pickleball, a sport he picked up recently, and distance running—he’s currently training for another Toronto Half Marathon.
From left to right: Sharon, Alexandra, Mark and Jaime.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Learning and Growth
For Eckler, the future holds a balance of continued professional involvement and personal growth. While his days of working 70 hours a week are behind him, his passion for orthodontics remains as strong as ever. “I don’t see myself fully retiring anytime soon,” he says. “There’s so much to learn, both within dentistry and in other fields. I’m on a cybersecurity advisory board now, and it’s fascinating to explore areas outside of my comfort zone.”
As he steps into the next chapter of his life, Dr. Eckler remains committed to improving both patient outcomes and the broader dental profession. Whether he’s teaching, innovating, or treating patients, one thing is clear: Mark Eckler is far from finished.