Question: Can you share a little about your background and what led you to a career in dentistry?
Answer: I’ve wanted to be a dentist since I was 12 years old. I realized that God had given me the gift of working with my hands, and I knew I needed to use that talent. I attended North Georgia College, then went on to Emory University Dental School, and later moved to Jefferson to open my dental practice. I’ve been practicing dentistry for 48 years and still thoroughly enjoy treating patients. I’ve always had a desire to help people.

Question: You played a pivotal role in pioneering the Athens Wellness Clinic's dental clinic. What inspired you to take on that project, and what challenges did you face during its creation?
Answer: I helped start the dental clinic at the Athens Nurses Clinic, now the Athens Wellness Clinic, with Dr. Charles Birch almost 30 years ago. My wife, Janna, was working there as a nurse practitioner, and she told me that many patients came to the clinic with severe dental pain and that there was a great need for assistance. We were in a very old building in downtown Athens, in a rough area, and had limited equipment that was donated, but we made it work.

Question: You've recently been honored for your professional achievements. Can you share some of the accomplishments or awards that you’re most proud of during your career?
Answer: While teaching part-time with dental students at MCG Dental School, I received the Pierre Fauchard Award for my work with the students. This year, I was honored to be invited to join the Pierre Fauchard Society. Many years ago, I was also awarded Rotarian of the Year for my work in that international club, where the motto is "Service Above Self." I’ve had the opportunity to go on six international trips to three different countries to provide dental care for underserved populations in remote areas, which has been incredibly rewarding.

Question: Volunteering your time at a free healthcare clinic must be incredibly rewarding. What has been your experience volunteering at the Athens Wellness Clinic, and what do you find most fulfilling about serving the community in this capacity?
Answer: My time volunteering at the Athens Wellness Clinic means a lot to me because we’re able to help people who have no insurance, many of whom are homeless or in drug rehabilitation programs. Their dental health is often in terrible shape, and we have to extract many teeth to relieve pain caused by infection. I also have pre-dental students assisting and helping clean up after patients, and I enjoy teaching them in the process.

Question: As someone who has witnessed the growing need for accessible healthcare, especially in Northeast Georgia, why do you think the Athens Wellness Clinic is such a crucial resource for the community, and how do you see it impacting the lives of local residents?
Answer: The work we do at the Athens Wellness Clinic is critical because there is such a great need for healthcare in Athens and the surrounding areas. Many people do not have access to medical and dental care due to their circumstances. Everyone we treat is incredibly thankful for what we do, and I truly love the entire staff’s dedication. It’s an honor to work alongside them and continue helping the community.