Behind every vision, there is someone who was inspired, curious, and challenged. We are all presented with a path as we navigate through our lives, and allowing those paths to mold us is part of the journey. The journey, Dr. Brett Cox, is the most crucial part. Perhaps this is why Dr. Cox has worn so many hats, including those of a Weber State basketball player, a KNAZ TV news broadcaster, an Army soldier in Japan, a host for exchange students, a coach, and now, running his own orthodontic practice right here in Ogden.
For Dr. Cox, having a strong community, family, and team means everything. While serving in Japan, Dr. Cox became Coach Brett, pioneering a basketball club for high school students from the surrounding military bases who wanted to play basketball. This pursuit of his passion inspired a unity between Japanese and American students who just wanted to play some ball. With a combined effort toward what seemed impossible, all three of the teams were able to raise enough money to travel to the US for the Amateur Athletic Union.
Dr. Cox's experience in Japan shaped how he continues to lead — with the same spirit of unity and support that defined those teams.
To this day, Dr. Cox and his wife, Megan, still host some of the students they knew while in Japan, and some of them have even gone on to start their own careers in basketball, still reaching out to Coach Brett from time to time for advice. Needless to say, Dr. Cox will always be Coach Brett, because he drives team spirit and the sense to support and love one another.
Dr. Cox took over Specialists in Orthodontics a little over three years ago and has recently welcomed his new — and old — friend, Dr. Andrea Alicea, into the practice. Dr. Alicea and Dr. Cox met during their residency, where Dr. Cox was her mentor. Dr. Cox was holding down the fort as the sole orthodontist for the last year and a half, which he admitted could be overwhelming at times. He says that without his team, it would not have been possible.
The ambiance of Specialists in Orthodontics is not your typical orthodontic office—it has a personal feel, a sense that you might experience when visiting a friend's house. You can see all of your friends' favorite hobbies based on how they decorate. In the case of Specialists in Orthodontics, Dr. Cox has a collection of basketball sneakers displayed around the office, along with his jerseys, including one signed by professional basketball player Damien Lillard.
Getting braces is not something many of us look forward to, but Dr. Cox and his team try to make it a positive experience. They genuinely care about their patients' experience and providing them with the smile they can be proud of. After a friendly greeting from the receptionist, a bright and cheery waiting room decorated with photos of young athletes and happy families, welcomes patients. Two essential and hope-inspiring displays are located nearby: a candy wall where patients can choose a sweet treat at the end of the appointment, and a wall of beautiful smiles from previous patients. It's a welcoming environment with a friendly staff, all of whom share an incredibly authentic goal of simply making patients feel comfortable.
Dr. Cox lives by the philosophy of constant betterment and continued learning. He cares about his patients so much that his last thought of the day is about how he can serve them better and how he can further improve their smiles. He strives for perfection because he says his patients deserve it.
On a personal and unforgettable level, Dr. Cox shared how he solidified his passion for orthodontics, which was inspired by a beautifully braced, orange and black band smile: his youngest sister, Kylie Cox. Kylie left this world much too soon, but Dr. Cox thinks of her every day, feeling grateful for the lessons she has taught him. She showed him how to love others and be kind, accepting everyone — no matter who they were —with a big smile and a warm hug. Dr. Cox strives to embody her essence of love in everyday ways, honoring her belief that we can find peace within each other if we take the time to do so.
Dr.Cox states, "A smile is such a big part of who we are. Helping people gain confidence to share that smile with others is why I became an orthodontist."
"A smile is such a big part of who we are."
"Every patient should love their beautiful, happy smile."