“Shelby County provides many opportunities for personal and professional growth.”
Photograph Contributed
Dr. Danielle Gilbert brings smiles to all of her patients. A Shelby County native, Gilbert received her Bachelor of Science degree at UAB and then attended the University of Alabama School of Dentistry. Her husband, Tyler, also grew up in the Birmingham area. They have been married for five years and have a 1 1/2 year old son, Eli.
Dr. Danielle Gilbert
Why did you decide to become an orthodontist?
As I was taking my basic science classes at UAB, I thought that I may want to pursue a career in medicine or dentistry. I visited Dr. Glen Brawley’s office during my sophomore year to shadow him so that I could learn about his career as an orthodontist. I saw that being an orthodontist required scientific thinking but also the ability to communicate clearly with patients, parents and staff members. I saw that Dr. Brawley made a positive impact on the lives of his patients — orthodontics was more than just giving people a nice smile. I knew becoming an orthodontist would require many years of education; but I decided it was worth it because I wanted to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
What’s your favorite part about your job?
My favorite part is getting to know my patients and their families during the course of treatment and watching as they become more self-confident as their smile improves. I love seeing a patient’s reaction once the braces are removed and they see their new smile! It is very rewarding to help a patient achieve a smile they are proud of.
What do you love about Shelby County?
Shelby County has been a wonderful place to grow-up and now, to raise my family. Shelby County provides many opportunities for personal and professional growth due to our outstanding schools, neighborhoods and local business community.
What do you like to do in your free time?
My husband and I spend every minute possible playing with our little boy. We like to play outside, dig in the dirt, find frogs and get messy. We will do anything to make Eli laugh.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I often search through thrift stores and estate sales for old furniture that can be repaired and given new life. It is very satisfying to paint an old table or dresser and then incorporate it into our home.
What’s your favorite movie?
I don’t watch a lot of animated movies, but I really like “Up” because of the sweet storyline and sense of adventure that it portrays. There are great little jokes throughout the dialog that make it a fun movie for adults, too.
If you hadn’t become an orthodontist, what do you think you’d be doing?
I can’t imagine doing anything other than orthodontics, but I would enjoy working with animals. A few years ago, I got a behind-the-scenes tour of the Birmingham Zoo, and I think being a zookeeper would be amazing.
Do you have any good teeth jokes?
Haha, not really… but here is one: When should you call the dentist?
Tooth-hurty
