This feature is a question-and-answer session with a new Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 122nd installment visiting with Nate Worthington, Operations Manager for Maryville Modern Dentistry.
 

Describe what Maryville Modern Dentistry does. We do same day dentistry using state of the art technology. We want to create happier, healthier patients, and help people in this community to live better lives with a smile they can be proud of.

 

How did you get started? I have always been involved in customer service, and I wanted to use my skills and ability to help make a difference in people’s lives. I saw that there was an opening for this office, and decided to apply. Fortunately, they took a chance on me and here I am.

 
What is your background? Before coming to dentistry, I owned and operated restaurants and bars. This gave me the customer service experience and the business background to be successful in this role, which is very similar.
 
Who is your mentor? I’ve been fortunate to have a great mentor for pretty much my whole professional career. One of my former business part-ners actually hired me at my first job in the service industry and guided me from being an employee, to a manager and finally to a successful owner. Without him, I wouldn’t have near the knowledge and success that I’ve had.
 
Describe your customers. Our office is open to everyone in Blount County, and any an-ywhere that can get to us.
 
What impacts the business environment you work in? More than ever, dentistry is being closely linked with overall medical health, and people are starting to see the implications of having good oral health. This understanding is helping us to grow in the area with two sister offices in Knoxville and Oak Ridge respectively.
 
Name three things you wish you knew when you started. The only thing that I wish I had a better understanding of when I started is the challenge of helping people see the importance and value of good oral health and dentistry.
 
What do you enjoy about running or working at the business? Everyday is different. Each hour brings new challenges and new chances to help our patients have the best smile and dental care possible.