Dr. Peden was born and raised in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan. He received his dental degree from the University of Michigan, and he served as a dental officer in the United States Navy from 1968 to 1970. He returned to the University of Illinois where he received his orthodontic training. He started his orthodontic practice in Orange Park, Florida, in 1972.

Dr. Peden is a member of the American Dental Association, American Association of Orthodontics, Southern Society of Orthodontics, Florida Orthodontic Society, Florida Dental Association, Northeast Florida Dental Association and the Clay County Dental Association.

Dr. Peden has over 35 years experience treating a wide range of difficult and complex orthodontic challenges. He has treated numerous orthognathic (jaw surgery) cases and provides non-surgical treatment for those suffering from temporomandibular dysfunction (TMJ).

Dr.Peden and his wife Sharron have been married for over 41 years and have four children and four grandchildren.

Susan Palazzolo - Business Manager                       
Susan has been with Dr. Peden since August 1994. She is a certified orthodontic assistant and was originally hired in the clinical department. Susan worked as an orthodontic assistant until September 2006, at which time she moved to the front office. Susan is now our treatment as well as scheduling coordinator. She enjoys interacting with patients and their parents. Susan has made many long-lasting friendships through our office over the years.

Susan is married and has two sons, Blain and Braden. She enjoys shopping, water sports and spending time with her favorite dog, Chester.

Gretchen Miller - Assistant                                        
Gretchen is a certified orthodontic assistant and has been with Dr. Peden since 1995. She takes pleasure in working with patients, making each one feel special. Gretchen also is responsible for training new employees.

Gretchen is married with two beautiful girls, Shanley and Makenna. She enjoys outside activities and shopping.


Rowyna Ortiz - Assistant                                             
Rowyna joined our team in February 2006. Prior to joining our team, she had worked at the US Naval Hospital Dental Clinic in Italy as a civilian employee for two years. She takes pride in being a part of a team whose main goal is to give patients a beautiful smile.

She is  the  mother of two adorable girls, Trisha and Taja. She loves to travel and going on trips with her family.

Kay Walden - Secretary/ Public Relations               
Kay started working for Dr. Peden in 1989 at the front desk as scheduling coordinator. She retired in 2004, but soon returned as our part-time secretary/public relations representative. She loves being a part of Dr. Peden's team and treating all our patients with respect, love, integrity and creating beautiful smiles for children and adults. She is a "people person" and has made many wonderful friends during the 16 years with Dr. Peden.

Kay is married to Roger, and they have two grown daughters and five very active grandchildren which keep her busy. Her hobbies are gardening, shopping and volunteer work.

Darlene Milford - Financial/ Insurance Coordinator
Darlene is our veteran employee having worked for the past 23 years filing insurance claims and handling accounts receivable and payable.

Darlene spends her leisure time with her four beautiful little granddaughters and following all of their activities. She also enjoys going to FSU Seminoles games with her family.