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 of the community. The awards, decided by community voting, underscore the practice's strong reputation and the trust that patients and families have placed in its care.
Dr. Dominique Backus, owner and founder of Backus Smiles, expressed gratitude for the recognition: "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. 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 recognition carries significant weight because it is determined by community votes, reflecting the practice's deep roots in Homewood and its commitment to personalized care. In an era where corporate chains increasingly dominate healthcare, Backus Smiles' status as a private, non-corporate practice makes this honor particularly meaningful. It signals that local residents value the continuity, individualized attention, and community-focused approach that independent practices often provide.
Dr. Backus 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. Her extensive credentials and professional affiliations further reinforce the practice's credibility and dedication to staying at the forefront of orthodontic care.
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. Beyond individual treatment, the practice has focused on creating an office culture where patients feel like family from the moment they walk through the door. This emphasis on comfort and personalized treatment plans, combined with advanced technology, has likely contributed to the community's strong support.
The implications of this award extend beyond mere accolades. For prospective patients, it serves as a trusted recommendation from neighbors and peers, simplifying the decision-making process for orthodontic care. For the practice, it reinforces its standing as a leading provider in Homewood and Birmingham, potentially attracting new patients and strengthening its ties to the community. Moreover, it highlights the importance of patient satisfaction and community engagement in building a successful healthcare practice.
For those considering orthodontic treatment, Backus Smiles welcomes new patients and offers complimentary consultations. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit backusbraces.com. The practice's commitment to excellence and its recent recognition as Homewood's Best Orthodontist and Orthodontic Practice for 2026 demonstrate why it remains a top choice for families in the area.
