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.
Reviews
Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 60 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestSherry Thomas
a year ago
Love Going Here They Really Care About The Patients
brandi avant
a year ago
The absolute best orthodontist office. Everyone is so incredibly outgoing, friendly and helpful. Dr. Howell treats every patient as if they are his only. Making them each feel special. We love this office and staff
Jesse Meadows
2 years ago
We love Wiregrass Orthodontists! Dr Howell & ENTIRE staff are awesome. I'm extremely satisfied with the care provided to my son.
Talona Magwood
2 years ago
Very welcoming environment! They get me in and out in no time. The team and Dr.is awesome. Please see them for your braces.
Talona McCoy
2 years ago
HELLO EVERYONE! I RATE WIREGRASS ORTHO A 5 STAR BECAUSE THEY ARE QUICK AND EASY TO DEAL WITH. THE STAFF AND DR HOWELL WELCOMED ME WITH OPEN ARMS AND THE ATMOSPHERE WAS AMAZING. THEY GOT ME IN AN OUT WITH NO PROBLEMS. IM HAPPY I CHOSE THEM TO HEALP ME MAKE MY SMILE MORE BEAUTIFUL! THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO!!!!!
Talona McCoy
3 years ago
HELLO EVERYONE! I RATE WIREGRASS ORTHO A 5 STAR BECAUSE THEY ARE QUICK AND EASY TO DEAL WITH. THE STAFF AND DR HOWELL WELCOMED ME WITH OPEN ARMS AND THE ATMOSPHERE WAS AMAZING. THEY GOT ME IN AN OUT WITH NO PROBLEMS. IM HAPPY I CHOSE THEM TO HEALP ME MAKE MY SMILE MORE BEAUTIFUL! THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO!!!!!
Chiquita Daniels
3 years ago
This is our first visit with the orthodontic and all I can say is that our visit was AMAZING..... the staff is very friendly and helpful full of knowledge from check in and check out we already have formed a bond and the doctor is AWESOME hats off to WIREGRASS ORTHODONTIC SPECIALISTS
Chiquita Daniels
3 years ago
This is our first visit with the orthodontic and all I can say is that our visit was AMAZING..... the staff is very friendly and helpful full of knowledge from check in and check out we already have formed a bond and the doctor is AWESOME hats off to WIREGRASS ORTHODONTIC SPECIALISTS
LaTasha March
4 years ago
Latasha Scott....... There is not enough space here to tell you all how wonderful Dr. John Howell and his staff are. So if I can try to sum it all up; amazing, caring, and loving! My thoughts of Dr. Howell are continuously knowing that GOD has blessed him with the knowledge to care for his patients, and to give them the look that they seek for a wonderful smile! I am so pleased with the way my smile has transformed! Dr. Howell's compassion and his love for what he does truly shows! It was never a time when I dreaded going for my visits, because smiles and loving faces were present from the time you walked into the office to the time you left! To the wonderful ladies at the sign in desk, keep smiling because you guys are amazing! If the staff was ever having a bad day, you would have never known, because Dr. Howell and his staff are very professional and makes his patients first priority! Last but certainly far from least, one of the most important people that I call my friend Mrs. Alyson Aplin. Alyson has been there from my first to my last appointment from a little over two years. Tears come to my eyes when I think on such a wonderful person as Alyson...you are truly an angel in disguise! Alyson you are such a genuine person! Thank you for blessing me with your present each time! Thanks to the entire staff but a special thanks to Dr. Howell and Alyson Aplin.
Audrey Patten
4 years ago
I love love Dr. Howell's office and staff. Everyone is nice and so welcoming. Always quick visits. Everyone knows what they're doing and gets it done. Never questioned my treatment when I was there. Why did I have to move to caliiiii?!? literally crying. Miss this place and everything about it. Best ortho I've ever been to. Highly highly recommend.
LaTasha March
4 years ago
Latasha Scott....... There is not enough space here to tell you all how wonderful Dr. John Howell and his staff are. So if I can try to sum it all up; amazing, caring, and loving! My thoughts of Dr. Howell are continuously knowing that GOD has blessed him with the knowledge to care for his patients, and to give them the look that they seek for a wonderful smile! I am so pleased with the way my smile has transformed! Dr. Howell's compassion and his love for what he does truly shows! It was never a time when I dreaded going for my visits, because smiles and loving faces were present from the time you walked into the office to the time you left! To the wonderful ladies at the sign in desk, keep smiling because you guys are amazing! If the staff was ever having a bad day, you would have never known, because Dr. Howell and his staff are very professional and makes his patients first priority! Last but certainly far from least, one of the most important people that I call my friend Mrs. Alyson Aplin. Alyson has been there from my first to my last appointment from a little over two years. Tears come to my eyes when I think on such a wonderful person as Alyson...you are truly an angel in disguise! Alyson you are such a genuine person! Thank you for blessing me with your present each time! Thanks to the entire staff but a special thanks to Dr. Howell and Alyson Aplin.
Audrey Patten
5 years ago
I love love Dr. Howell's office and staff. Everyone is nice and so welcoming. Always quick visits. Everyone knows what they're doing and gets it done. Never questioned my treatment when I was there. Why did I have to move to caliiiii?!? literally crying. Miss this place and everything about it. Best ortho I've ever been to. Highly highly recommend.
Andrew Adkison
6 years ago
This is my 3rd round of Ortho and my 1st with Wiregrass/Dr. Howell. For both a friendly staff and great results you won't find a better place!
Heather McClenny
6 years ago
Dr. Howell, and his staff are amazing! We will never use anyone else for our orthodontic needs!
Huntsmom
6 years ago
Dr. Howell and staff are amazing!! We have always been treated like family! Highly recommend them for all your orthodontic needs!
Angela Whitehead
6 years ago
I love Dr Howell and the staff. I had my braces for over 2years.. And I just recently had to go in to have my retainer fixed and they still knew who I was on sight..they're always super friendly!!!!!
Amber Cornwall
6 years ago
All 3 of my mothers children used Dr. Howell and we were all 100% satisfied!! Dr. Howell is a sweetheart and his staff is excellent (especially Ashley aka Muffin) We are so thankful for them!
anthony haslip
6 years ago
Great customer service and always genuine. Takes care of any problems promptly
India Garrett
6 years ago
I've been hesitant to have this done due to self esteem issues and my age, but the staff made me feel so comfortable and made the process so easy to understand. I've only been wearing my braces about 3 months and I've made tremendous progress. They are so awesome here.
India Garrett
7 years ago
I've been hesitant to have this done due to self esteem issues and my age, but the staff made me feel so comfortable and made the process so easy to understand. I've only been wearing my braces about 3 months and I've made tremendous progress. They are so awesome here.
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