Backus Smiles Named Homewood's Best Orthodontist and Orthodontic Practice for 2026

Backus Smiles and Dr. Dominique Backus have been named Homewood's Best Orthodontist 2026 and Homewood's Best Orthodontic Practice 2026, an annual recognition compiled by Homewood Life that celebrates the top local businesses and professionals chosen by residents. The dual honor underscores the practice's deep roots in the community and its commitment to personalized orthodontic care.

The recognition is decided entirely by community voting, making it a direct reflection of the trust patients and families have placed in the local orthodontic practice. For Dr. Backus, the owner and founder, the award carries special meaning. "Being named one of Homewood's Best means so much to us because it comes directly from the people we get to serve every day," said Dr. Dominique Backus. "Our whole team works hard to make every visit comfortable and every smile something to be proud of, and this recognition lets us know that effort is being felt by our patients and their families. As a small business owner in a private (non-corporate) practice, this award is truly one of the greatest compliments we can receive!"

The honor highlights the value of independent, doctor-owned practices in an era when corporate chains increasingly dominate healthcare. Dr. Backus's extensive credentials further reinforce the practice's reputation for excellence. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1997 and completed her Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics in 2000, building on undergraduate studies in microbiology completed with summa cum laude honors. She is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the Alabama Association of Orthodontists, and the Birmingham District Dental Society, and maintains alumni ties to both LSU School of Dentistry and UAB.

Backus Smiles offers comprehensive care for children, teens, and adults, including traditional and clear braces, Invisalign clear aligners, and custom retainers to help patients maintain their results long after treatment ends. The practice has focused on creating an office culture where patients feel like family from the moment they walk through the door. This patient-first approach, combined with advanced technology and personalized treatment plans, has clearly resonated with the Homewood community.

The implications of this award extend beyond a single practice. It signals that local residents value a personalized, relationship-driven approach to orthodontic care over impersonal, large-scale operations. In a healthcare landscape where private practices often face pressure to consolidate, Backus Smiles's success demonstrates that community trust and quality care can still thrive. For families in Homewood and Birmingham, the recognition serves as a trusted endorsement when choosing an orthodontist. It also reinforces the importance of supporting local businesses that invest in their communities and build lasting relationships with patients.

As Backus Smiles celebrates this achievement, the practice continues to welcome new patients and offers complimentary consultations for anyone considering braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic treatment. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit backusbraces.com.