With more than 16 years of experience giving patients beautiful smiles, Dr. John P. Howell is committed to providing all of our guests with a welcoming office environment, offering state-of-the-art technology and treatment plans to all of those in need! From clear ceramic braces to Invisalign aligners, Dr. Howell provides comprehensive orthodontic treatment to people of all ages.

Dr. John P. Howell has been providing outstanding orthodontic care to residents of Alabama since 2002. He earned his Bachelors Degree in Chemical Engineering from Auburn University and went on to receive his Doctor of Dental Medicine Degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Afterward, Dr. Howell completed his residency at the University of Pennsylvania, earning his specialty certificate in orthodontics.

In order to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in the field of orthodontics, Dr. Howell maintains active membership in prestigious professional organizations such as the American Dental Association, the Alabama Dental Association, the 3rd District Dental Society, the American Association of Orthodontists, Wiregrass Study Group, and the Alabama Association of Orthodontists.

In his time away from the office, Dr. Howell enjoys hunting, fishing, water and snow skiing, scuba diving, being active in the Rotary Club, spending time with his three beautiful daughters (Mary Morgan, Palmer, and McGowan) and his wife, Heather. He is an active member of First United Methodist Church where he serves on the missions committee and is on the Administrative Board.

Thanks for expressing interest in our amazing staff here at Wiregrass Orthodontics. At our practice, we strive to create a comfortable and warm environment to ensure you feel right at home. When you step into Wiregrass Orthodontics, youll be greeted with our energetic and fun-loving staff that is eager to work with you to provide the highest level of care possible. Our expert team of orthodontic specialists, assistants, and treatment coordinators are all here to help with anything you need. If youre looking to get clear braces, metal braces, or Invisalign, our staff is here to help you decide and choose the best option for you. We stay on top of the latest technological advances by regularly attending continuing education courses and seminars. The Wiregrass staff looks forward to meeting you soon!

Our mission is to provide superior orthodontic care to every smile that walks in the door. With Wiregrass Orthodontic Specialists, you will receive open communication from Dr. Howell and his team about all aspects of your diagnosis and treatment. We are passionate about creating beautiful smiles while enhancing the quality of your life. Our office strives to bring you the highest standard care that exceeds your expectations.

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.

If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to see the orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21. Whether you're considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.

The amount of time spent in braces will vary depending on the individual patient, because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between six and 30 months, but most standard treatments take about 22 months.

With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between the braces. You should also floss daily to get in between your braces where your brush isn't able to reach. Your orthodontist can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.

Yes! In fact, it's even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can't reach. This causes bacteria to build up that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.

Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.