It is my pleasure and privilege to lend a helping hand to our wonderful patients and staff as we work together to achieve amazing results every day. Orthodontics is such a special occupation — one that can make a difference in so many lives. Watching a patient’s self-confidence increase throughout treatment as their smile becomes perfect is amazing. Their new smiles light up the room!
Orthodontics provides a great opportunity to get to know each and every patient and family. I feel like we are all going through the process together, almost like a team sport, with the championship being a beautiful smile. It is a great bonding experience.
Education and Continuing Education
I began my education after high school at the University of Washington, and obtained a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering and in pulp and paper science. I went on to Auburn University at Montgomery to obtain my master’s in business administration.
Following that, I attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham for my Doctorate of Dental Medicine and the Medical College of Georgia for advanced education in general dentistry. Finally, I received my Master of Science in orthodontics from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. This means that after dental school, I attended a three-year orthodontic residency program to become an orthodontic specialist.
While earning my degrees in dentistry and orthodontics, I was the recipient of several awards that recognized my commitment to excellence in the field in both academics and research.
Though 20 hours of continuing education credits are required every year for our license, I take many more than that in order to stay current with the scientific and technological changes in dentistry and orthodontics. This creates a mutual benefit between our patients and staff by allowing us to utilize the latest technology for the most efficient treatment and optimal smile results.
Professional Affiliations
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Southern Association of Orthodontists
- Alabama Association of Orthodontic Specialists
- American Dental Association
- Alabama Dental Association
Something Personal
I am a native of Richland, Washington in the Pacific Northwest, and have lived in Guntersville for a number of years now. I am married and have three small children.
When I’m not working, I enjoy all sporting activities, including golf, running, cycling, and hiking. I also like landscaping and gardening.
I love spending time with my family, just walking around the block, going to the park, or playing on the swing set in the backyard. I also love to travel and visit friends and family.
Finding Solutions
One of my passions is to help other people do well and to resolve issues. From my time working as a manager and chemical engineer for 12 years in a local paper mill to class president in dental school, to chief resident in my orthodontic residency to the present in orthodontic private practice, my skill set has evolved into being able to gather information, identify issues, and come up with a solution that is beneficial to all. As an elder in our local church, I’ve learned to be compassionate and helpful wherever I can.
I have also been on the landscaping and maintenance boards and crew at our local church. It is fun to work on projects and watch our goals become realities. We sponsor many local groups and charities to enable them to help others as well. Being active in the community is a great opportunity to work together as a team to achieve excellent results.
