Backus Smiles and Dr. Dominique Backus have been named Homewood's Best Orthodontist 2026 and Homewood's Best Orthodontic Practice 2026 by Homewood Life, an annual recognition determined by community voting. The awards underscore the practice's strong reputation among residents and highlight the growing preference for personalized, non-corporate orthodontic care in the Homewood and Birmingham areas.
The recognition is particularly meaningful because it is decided by the people who live and work in the community. Unlike industry awards judged by peers or committees, Homewood's Best reflects the direct experiences of patients and families. For Backus Smiles, this validates years of effort to create a welcoming environment and deliver high-quality treatment. "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, owner and founder of Backus Smiles. "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 significance of this award extends beyond local pride. In an era where corporate chains increasingly dominate healthcare, Backus Smiles represents a model of independent, doctor-owned practice that prioritizes long-term patient relationships over volume-driven metrics. 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.
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. For those considering orthodontic treatment, the practice welcomes new patients and offers complimentary consultations. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit backusbraces.com.
This award also signals to the broader community that local businesses can thrive by staying true to their values. As Homewood residents continue to support independent practices, the recognition of Backus Smiles serves as a reminder of the impact that dedicated, community-focused care can have on individual lives and the local economy. The practice's success demonstrates that patient trust, built over years of consistent service, remains a powerful force in healthcare.
