Meet Dr. Knecht
DDS, MDS
Dr. Kristen Knecht, a Baton Rouge native, has always been passionate about creating beautiful, healthy smiles. As a board-certified orthodontist, she combines meticulous attention to detail with a deep commitment to improving her patients’ lives. She completed her orthodontic specialty training at the renowned University of Connecticut, where she trained under world leaders in the field and developed expertise in advanced orthodontic techniques.
Education
- Louisiana State University – Bachelor of Science in Biology
- LSU Health Science Center – Doctorate of Dental Surgery
- University of Connecticut Health Science Center – Orthodontic Specialty Certification and Master of Dental Science
A Holistic Approach to Orthodontics
Dr. Knecht believes orthodontics is about much more than creating straight teeth — it’s about improving lives. Her approach focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of malocclusions, with a strong emphasis on the connection between jaw development, airway health, and overall well-being. Her passion for this approach was inspired by her sister’s struggles with mouth breathing and airway issues as an adult, challenges that could have been addressed during her critical growth years.
Dr. Knecht recognizes that abnormal jaw structures often contribute not only to dental crowding but also to airway and breathing difficulties. Conditions like enlarged tonsils and adenoids, allergies, and other obstructions can negatively impact the proper growth and development of the jaws. For this reason, she thoroughly screens her patients for sleep-disordered breathing and related conditions, including clenching, grinding, snoring, and even behavioral signs such as hyperactivity and ADHD. When necessary, she intervenes orthodontically and works collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to address these concerns holistically.
Community & Care
In 2016, Dr. Knecht relocated to the Houston area to be closer to family and friends. Drawn to Mont Belvieu for its small-town charm, she decided to establish her own practice where she could not only deliver exceptional orthodontic care but also actively engage in and support the local community.
Her practice emphasizes a team-based approach, working closely with other healthcare providers to ensure every patient receives comprehensive care. She combines this philosophy with her unwavering commitment to creating beautiful, functional smiles. Her attention to detail, coupled with a deep understanding of facial aesthetics and jaw development, ensures her patients leave with smiles they love — and that support their long-term health.
Beyond the Office
Dr. Knecht’s engaging and enthusiastic personality shines through in everything she does. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and dog (Banksy), exercising, and traveling when her schedule allows. Family, friends, and her many satisfied patients hold a special place in her heart, and she values every opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those around her.
