CarolinasDentist Blog

5 Reasons to Thank Your Dentist on National Dentist Day

girl smiling

Guess what today is? That’s right – it’s National Dentist Day, a holiday established to show appreciation and say thank you to all of the dentists out there. Many people don’t like visiting the dentist, but without them most of us would probably have unhealthy teeth and gums. We should all take the time today to appreciate the wonderful dentists in our lives, so here are five reasons to thank them:

 

DENTISTS PREVENT DISEASE

Dentists can help prevent dental disease or detect it in time to stop it. Dental professionals are trained to detect early signs of dental disease, such as gum disease, tooth decay and oral cancer. Dental problems can lead to additional health problems in the future. So, if you really think about it, your dentist can essentially prolong your life in a unique way.

DENTISTS KEEP YOUR SMILE WHITE

Dentists can whiten your teeth in matter of minutes. In a single 60 minute visit to their office, your dentist can transform your smile. Your teeth can literally brighten 10 shades! There are other methods of whitening your teeth but none are as quick or effective.

DENTISTS ENCOURAGE GOOD ORAL HYGIENE

Dentists can help encourage your children to practice good oral health at a young age. Your child should have their first dental visit by age one, or six months after their first tooth erupts. At the visit, your dentist will give you oral health information and will help your child get used to future dental appointments. There is no better way to instill the importance of oral health to children and their parents.

DENTISTS KEEP YOU OUT OF PAIN

Not only do dentists relieve the pain of a toothache, they are extremely skilled at preventing pain during dental procedures. Many dentists also incorporate relaxation techniques, such as aromatherapy, in the exam rooms.

DENTISTS HELP IMPROVE CONFIDENCE

When you have misaligned, discolored, cracked or broken teeth it can make you feel uncomfortable to smile in public. Your dentist can help improve the aesthetics of your smile which, in turn, can boost your self-confidence.

As you can see, dentists do more than just keep our smile pretty. Today, on National Dentist Day, be sure to tell your dentist thanks today for their dedication and hard work.

Related Posts

A Black mom and dad smile with their adorable daughter before visiting their family dentist at CarolinasDentist
Why Should I See a Family Dentist?

Many cities have a wide variety and selection of dentists and dental practices. We explore the benefits of visiting a family dentist for your oral healthcare.

Back To Top

Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

Choose your location:      

Select Office To Make Payment To