I was born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, and I'm an honor graduate of Texas A&M University (Bachelor of Science, Biology, cum laude). In 1976, I was admitted to the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Dental Branch and graduated in 1980 with a Doctorate of Dental Surgery.

I practiced general dentistry in Beaumont for two years before returning to the University of Texas in 1982 for orthodontic specialty training. I completed my Orthodontic Residency in 1984 and was certified as a specialist in orthodontics. I'm Board Certified (American Board of Orthodontics), and a member of the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics.