Dr. Bob developed his enthusiasm for dentistry growing up in Mt. Clemens, Michigan as the son of a Family Practice Dentist. He attended Albion College (Class of '67) and graduated from the University of Michigan Dental School in 1970. He worked with his Dad for the next year as a general dentist while teaching at the U of M Dental School in the Oral Diagnosis Department. He also worked on a research project for the Orthodontic Department. Dr. Bob entered the orthodontic program, at U of M in 1971 and was also an assistant instructor of orthodontics for the Dental School during this two-year program. Upon graduation, Dr. Bob moved his family to Traverse City in 1973 and has been in practice for over thirty years now.

Because Dr. Bob is a perpetual kid himself (he loves to ride both his bicycle and his Harley), he enjoys working with kids, not only to provide them with a beautiful smile, but also to give them something to smile about. Orthodontic treatment requires a considerable amount of time and he likes to think of his patients as extended family and wants to make their orthodontic experience fun; one that builds lasting relationships. It's really rewarding for him to see many of his previous patients coming back years later with their children for treatment.

Dr. Bob has been a strong supporter of early treatment procedures to help severe orthodontic problems from growing into more complicated and costly treatment. He enthusiastically supports the American Association of Orthodontists' recommendation to have an orthodontic evaluation at seven years old when permanent teeth are beginning to erupt.

Adult orthodontic problems are usually very challenging, but also a rewarding part of his practice due to the extra excitement adults have for taking care of a problem that has bothered them for a long time.

Dr. Bob has been very active in the community, Rotary and his church, but his family is number one in his life. All three children and his wife, Diane, have been an important part of his office team at one time or another. Diane still takes an active part in the office as our financial manager. Dr. Bob has been president of the Resort District Dental Society, the Michigan Association of Orthodontists and the Great Lakes Association of Orthodontists giving back to a profession that he has been very devoted to.