Meet Your Providers
We welcome you to the greater Tampa, Brandon, and Plant City Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry practice of Dr. Derek Busciglio.
Your Smile Experts

I began learning the field from my father, Dr. John Busciglio, who was also a board-certified orthodontist and started the practice in 1972. Our training (both at Tufts University in Boston) and our time practicing together have made a huge difference in the quality and level of care Busciglio Smiles provides. Our orthodontic and pediatric care is second to none!
Our practice has been beautifying smiles in the local community for nearly 50 years, and we continue to grow and deliver orthodontic and pediatric dentistry care to the patients of Hillsborough County and beyond.
As an orthodontist dedicated to my craft, I am constantly striving to stay abreast of the latest technology through continuing education. Not only am I a Diamond+ Invisalign® provider, I give lectures throughout the country teaching other orthodontists to provide above-and-beyond Invisalign® treatment. Teaching others while simultaneously learning from their experiences has been an invaluable experience, which has allowed me to provide the best care possible to each and every patient that walks through my doors.
Continuous learning is critical in the ever evolving-field of dentistry, and Orthodontics in particular. Being a Diamond+ Invisalign® provider means that we are in the top 1% of providers. This assures patients that we are among the most experienced in the world at utilizing these technological advancements in our patients’ treatments. Additionally, I am a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the West Coast Dental Association, and the Southern Association of Orthodontists.
From the children to the adults, my patients are often very busy. I enjoy using our state-of-the-art technology in order to treat patients within their time constraints. A perfect example is incorporating orthodontic acceleration as an optional treatment modality. Full treatment on some patients can be as fast as 8-12 weeks. Exciting stuff!
My wife, Katie, and I have one beautiful son named Rocco, and we adopt lots of pets! Currently, we have two dogs—Gordan (the grump) and Blondie—and three cats—Peanut, Lola, and Tella. When I’m not at work, you can find me at dinner with my wife, on the tennis court, or playing with Rocco. I also enjoy supporting USF Bulls football. I played for the inaugural team back in 1997 and have very much enjoyed remaining involved with the evolution and growth of the program.
I’m also very involved in the local community. As a board member of the Bay Area Advisors, I help to obtain donations for the Moffitt Cancer Center. To day, we have donated over 1.8 million dollars!
Personal Statement
People ask me what else I would do if I couldn’t do orthodontics any longer; the real answer is I haven’t a clue. I grew up idolizing my father and playing in his orthodontic office as a very young child. I began saying I wanted to be an orthodontist for as long as I can remember. This profession was destiny for me. I’m so happy I was fortunate enough to make it my reality.
I learn something new, funny, or different every day. I am fortunate enough to cross paths in my practice with people from all over the world, and they have great stories to tell if you take the time to listen.
When we finish treatment, I always love to see the difference in the photos from start to finish. The final set of pictures always seems to have a smile a bit bigger and brighter than the initial set. That makes me smile, too.
Fun Facts!
Who is your favorite superhero?
Batman
What is your favorite band?
Coldplay
What's an interesting fact about you that few people know?
I'm a sommelier.

I received my education from the University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, as well as the Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center. I'm passionate about educating parents and their families on how to obtain optimal oral health--seeing children smile truly brightens my day.
I am always striving to continue my education in the field, which is why I am a member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Florida Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry. These memberships allow me to stay up to date with the latest developments in my field in order to provide the best possible treatment for my patients.
I have a small family of three, as well as an adorable silky terrier. When I'm not at work, you can find me going out to dinner and spending time with my family. I also love to travel and learn about different cultures and cuisines.
Personal Statement
I absolutely love working with kids. It’s a fast-paced and high-energy atmosphere, and it never gets dull. Children also have a wide imagination, which allows us to open our mind to new ideas and get a different outlook on life. I would say that not only do we make an impact on their lives, but they make an impact on ours, too.
Fun Facts!
Who is your favorite singer/band?
Jennifer Lopez
What is your favorite sports team?
The Tampa Bay Lightning
What is your favorite food?
Mediterranean

I graduated from Dental School at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Colombia, South America in 1989. After marrying my husband, I moved to the United States and obtained my DDS from Case Western University School of Dentistry, Cleveland, Ohio in 1994. Next, I pursued my specialty in Pediatric Dentistry at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital and the Pediatric Dentistry Department at Case Western Reserve University.
As a dedicated provider, I am constantly pursuing continuing education by attending annual meetings through the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Florida Dental Association, the Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry, and the West Coast District Dental Association. This allows me to provide top-quality care by staying current on the latest and greatest in dental technology and care.
I am passionate about learning new and innovative technologies to help children have a fun, positive dental visit in a gentle and caring environment. I believe the patient’s experience during dental treatment is as important as the treatment itself. This is why I ensure that relationships with my patients are based on trust, kindness, and compassion.
I take extra steps to make my patients’ visit a great one. Children are very perceptive, and I gain their trust by being sincere and using body language and words they can understand.
I have been married for 30 years and my husband is a Physician Anesthesiologist who works in Pain Management in Plant City. We have two children--a 23-year-old and a 14-year-old--and a loving white cat named Coco. When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, as I'm involved in my children's activities. My youngest son plays competitive tennis and I am often traveling for tournaments.
My family is very music-oriented. We love to sing and play the piano at home. I also enjoy traveling with my family, as that has allowed me to value the customs and traditions of different cultures.
Personal Statement
With a maternal approach, I have empathy for the feelings parents have when they entrust their children to me for treatment. I listen to their expectations and work together with them as a team to achieve the best dental experience for their child. I guide and involve parents in every step of the treatment.
With over 20 years of experience, I have treated countless children of all ages and personalities, including special needs patients. This experience gives me confidence that I can treat children in a professional and safe manner. Safety is my first priority.
My goal is to provide personalized, quality care to my patients and to make their experience as enjoyable and positive as possible.
Fun Facts!
What is your favorite food?
Italian
What is your favorite band?
Queen
What is a fact few people know about you?
I'm a great salsa dancer!

When she is not at the office, Dr. Elyssa loves traveling and trying new restaurants, boating, scuba diving, and spending time with her family and friends.
Education
Nova Southeastern University – Certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics & Master of Science in Dentistry
Kings County Hospital – General Practice Residency
University of Pittsburgh – Doctor of Dental Medicine
University of Florida – BS in Nutrition
Professional Associations
American Association of Orthodontists
Florida Association of Orthodontists
American Dental Association
Florida Dental Association