Dr. Merendino graduated from the University of Tennessee 's College of Dentistry Program in Memphis. Growing up in Bristol, TN Dr. Merendino fell in love with our wonderful region and has now been in private practice in the beautiful Model City for over 8 years. Prior to private practice, Dr. Merendino had one year experience as an associate dentist in a general practice and also spent one year focusing on children 's dental health at the Hawkins County Health Department. He is a member of the ADA, AGD and AACD. You will find him oftentimes volunteering at RAM or the Providence Medical Clinic. Dr. Merendino has a true interest in cosmetic and surgical procedures, including implants and restorations. He is continually pursuing continuing education courses to broaden his scope of practice to better assist his patients in making their dental goals a reality.In regards to dentistry, he enjoys the perfect combination of both engineering and artistry. He says, 'I love helping people feel better about their smiles; from as small as a filling to a full reconstructive procedure, it 's all fun to me!' Outside of work, you will find Dr. Merendino enjoying time with his wife and daughter, traveling, and enjoying many sports including playing golf, soccer, skiing, and snowboarding.

After graduating from ETSU with her degree in Human Development and Learning & Psychology, Jasmine worked in retail management for 12 years. She transitioned to the dental field in 2015 and truly enjoys helping people and in dentistry she says 'we are able to help someone daily; from everything to eliminating pain, teaching children excellent preventative habits, treatments to save teeth and doing confidence-building cosmetic cases!' Jasmine does Treatment Planning, Insurance Management and Administrative work for Dr. Merendino. Her favorite part of her job is watching the Cosmetic Case transformations. Jasmine was born with an enamel deficiency on all of her upper front teeth, and has had extensive cosmetic dental work, including braces and veneers. She truly understands the significance dentistry has on one 's confidence and health! Outside of work, Jasmine loves spending time with her precious daughter and family, and especially enjoys traveling.

Karla graduated from the Wytheville Dental Hygiene School in 2014, and has worked in everything from Pediatrics to General Dentistry and Prosthodontics. She loves getting to know people and providing them with clean and healthy smiles. Outside of work, Karla loves spending time with her husband, her family and her fur baby dog Ellie.

Katrina was a previous nurse aide for 8 years with MSHA, and graduated the Northeast State Program for Dental Assistants in 2017. She completed her EFDA (Expanded Functions Dental Auxillary) Program in 2020 from the UT College of Dentistry & Health Sciences Center. This program is governed by the TN State Board of Dentistry and allows Katrina to spend more time chair side with our patients, placing composite restorations. Katrina loves the staff in our office. She also loves working with Dr. Merendino because he is helpful and patient. Her favorite part of dentistry is seeing people smile after a procedure when they did not have the confidence to smile before the procedure! Outside of work, Katrina enjoys time with her family, Brett and Charlie, and her two dogs. She also enjoys playing and coaching volleyball, and any chance she gets to be outside with her family; especially doing swimming and hiking.

Andrea graduated from the Northeast State program for Dental Assistants in 2018. She completed her EFDA (Expanded Functions Dental Auxillary) Program in 2021 from the UT College of Dentistry & Health Sciences Center. This program is governed by the TN State Board of Dentistry and allows Andrea to spend more time chair side with our patients, placing composite restorations. Andrea's favorite part of dentistry is being able to play a part in improving smiles and boosting self confidence. She also loves being able to interact and build new relationships with the patients and staff at Dr. Merendinos office. She has a passion for patient care & it shows in her interactions with everyone in the practice! Outside of work, Andrea loves spending time with her family and friends, traveling, and exploring outdoors.

Savannah grew up in Kingsport and graduated from the Northeast State Dental Assisting Program in 2019. She previously worked in the health field as a Patient Care Technician. Her favorite part of dentistry is seeing the process from beginning to end. 'You get to be a part of changing people 's lives; because 'having the ability to smile and feel confident in yourself is the best feeling ever!' She also enjoys having memorable patient interactions and creating lasting friendships. She loves working at Dr. Merendino 's office because it 's a close-knit practice where we all love work, but also have fun together! Outside of work Savannah likes to travel and spend time with her friends and family.

Veronica graduated from Northeast State Community College in 2017 with an associates degree in Dental Assisting. Veronica was hand selected by her professor as the outstanding student in the Dental Assisting program and graduated with honors! In her spare time she enjoys hiking and backpacking with her boyfriend and two dogs. Other hobbies include kayaking, swimming, reading and traveling. Veronica's favorite part about working in the dental field is the interactionwith patients and seeing people smile! Veronica has been a part of our Model City Dentistry family since October of 2021.