Meet Dr. Walker
I feel like being an orthodontist is the best job in the world. I get to work with people who care about their health and want to be their best. I thoroughly enjoy interacting with patients and helping them achieve their goal of a great smile that will be a powerful asset their entire life. I never get tired of seeing the delight in the eyes of patients when their braces come off and they see their new smile for the first time.
Orthodontic treatment had a profound effect on me as a youth. I became interested in orthodontics when a family friend invited my sister and I to be his patients in his orthodontic specialty training at Northwest University Dental School in Chicago. My orthodontic care was a transforming experience for me and my self-confidence. I was fascinated by all aspects of my treatment and I decided at the age of 12 to make orthodontics my career. My enthusiasm for the profession and what a difference it can make for people motivated me to do my very best in the 11 years of college that were required.
Education and Continuing Education
- Brigham Young University – Bachelor of Science, 1978
- University of Illinois at Chicago Dental School – Doctorate of Dental Surgery, 1982
- University of Illinois at Chicago – Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics, 1984
- University of Illinois at Chicago – Master of Science in Orthodontics, 1987
Research and technology in orthodontics is ongoing and progressing rapidly. From advanced 3D imaging to 3D printing and clear aligners, I incorporate the very best into my practice to improve my patients’ outcomes, make treatment more efficient, and increase their comfort along the way.
Memberships
- US Grant Component of the Illinois State Dental Society (Past President)
- Illinois State Dental Society
- American Dental Association
- Illinois Society of Orthodontics
- Midwest Society of Orthodontics
- American Association of Orthodontics
Outside the Office
My wife is Kimella; we first dated as freshmen at college and finally married six years later. Kimella is creative, artistic, and a people person. Most importantly, she is my rock and my best friend.
We have five boys and two girls, all grown and married, as well as eleven grandchildren. With all the varied interests, family reunions are a blast! We like to sing, watch classic movies, cook, eat, and play games together. When Kimella and I have free time, we like to go to square dances and travel to visit family.
My commitment to the Freeport and Monroe communities is just as strong as my commitment to my profession. I am actively involved with the Freeport Rotary Club as President, Boy Scouts of America (past Scoutmaster), and the Church of Jesus Christ.