Meet Dr. Thomas Laboe

I have worked as an orthodontist since 1972. During that time I have been privileged to care for so many patients, watching them grow up, go on to marry and have children, and then bring their children to our practice for their orthodontic care. It is rewarding to see multiple generations from the same family and I do not take that honor lightly.

Being an orthodontist means that I am able to bring about meaningful, healthy changes in the lives of those I treat. Having straight teeth and a beautiful smile changes one’s life, as the individual moves through the world with greater self-confidence. I see those changes as they happen: as each patient gets closer to finishing their orthodontic work, you see them begin to transform. They move with a surer step and hold their head higher. The day we take off the braces, and the patient sees their new smile for the first time, the looks of joy are amazing. And our team smiles right along with the patient, because we know we’ve done well.

I have welcomed the fact that my son, the other “Dr. Laboe” in our practice, chose to become an orthodontist and to work with me. Together, we do great things for our patients.

EDUCATION AND CONTINUING EDUCATION

• Bachelor of Science, University of Notre Dame
• Doctorate of Dental Surgery, University of Detroit Mercy
• Orthodontic degree, University of Detroit Mercy

In addition to my formal education, I actively seek out opportunities to stay abreast of the advances and changes in orthodontics through continuing education conferences, seminars, and lectures. It is essential that I am able to provide my patients with the most effective, proven treatments available, as they deserve nothing less.

For many years I was an associate professor in the orthodontic program at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, and I am still a guest lecturer there. Sharing my professional knowledge, and seeing new orthodontists feeling inspired about their vocation, is rewarding.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

• American Dental Association
• American Association of Orthodontists
• North American Association of Facial Orthotropics
• Great Lakes Association of Orthodontists
• Michigan Dental Association
• Michigan Association of Orthodontists

PERSONAL LIFE AND VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES

I was born and raised in Monroe, MI, and have practiced here for the entirety of my career. My wife Marilyn is the love of my life, along with my nine children and 25 (currently) grandchildren. I love working in my gardens, where I have more than 50 fruit trees that I tend to, but spending time with my children and grandchildren is even more important to me.

Our office is located on our family’s farmland. Our patients love coming here and seeing the changes in the land and the plants and trees throughout the changing seasons.

I believe in sharing my dental and orthodontic skills with those in need. For the past 10 years, I have traveled to and volunteered my time at a hospital on the island of St. Lucia, offering care to the local population, many of whom cannot afford such essential treatment.