Meet Dr. Sample

Board-Certified Orthodontist in Decatur and Hartselle, AL

Dr. Lew B. Sample is a board-certified orthodontist at Valley Orthodontics, serving patients in Decatur and Hartselle, Alabama. He provides comprehensive orthodontic care grounded in strong clinical training, board certification, and decades of experience.

Dr. Sample at Valley Orthodontics in Decatur and Hartselle, AL

Education and Training

Dr. Sample’s orthodontic expertise is built on a strong academic and clinical foundation:

  • Samford University – Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biology

    • Inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa honorary fraternity

    • Elected captain of the varsity football team

  • University of Alabama School of Dentistry – Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), graduated with honors in 1994

  • Orthodontic Residency and Post-Doctoral Training – Completed a three-year residency program in orthodontics in Birmingham and obtained a post-doctoral master’s degree in clinical dentistry

Professional Achievements

  • Board-Certified Orthodontist – Successfully completed all three phases of the American Board of Orthodontics examination

  • Recipient of the Shepard Award for achieving the highest score in the nation on the Phase 2 written examination

  • Co-author of several scientific articles published in orthodontic journals

Professional Memberships and Leadership

Professional Organizations:

Leadership Roles:

How Is Dr. Sample Involved in the Community?

  • Active in civic organizations, including:

    • Kiwanis Club of Decatur

    • Fellowship of Christian Athletes

    • Decatur General Hospital Foundation

  • Has provided orthodontic care to patients in Decatur and surrounding areas since 1999

  • Married to his wife, Mandy, and they have three children: Marilyn, Carter, and Saxon

Why Patients Choose Dr. Lew B. Sample

Patients choose Dr. Sample for his combination of experience, clinical precision, and consistent results.

  • Experienced Care: Brings many years of dedicated orthodontic practice to each case.

  • Thorough, Detail-Oriented Treatment: Uses his advanced training to plan and monitor treatment carefully from start to finish.

  • Clear Communication: Explains treatment options and progress in a way patients and parents can easily understand.

  • Stable, Long-Term Results: Focuses on achieving healthy bites and smiles designed to last.

  • Community-Focused: Committed to serving families in Decatur, Hartselle, and the surrounding areas through both his practice and civic involvement.