A bio with a twistcredentials of course, but more personal information for a personal touch. My wifes name is Anne. We have three children: Olivia (born 2007), Jonathan (born 2009), and Katherine (born 2011).
I attended the University of Mississippi and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a major in biological sciences and a minor in Chemistry. I attended the University of Tennessee-Memphis for Dental School where I graduated in the top 10% of my class. To round out my SEC schools, I attended my orthodontic residency at the Vanderbilt Orthodontic Center where I served as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Orthodontics.
I initially opened my orthodontic office in Brentwood in October of 2001. I currently practice in Brentwood, off Moores Lane, and in Belle Meade across from Kroger. Our practices have the distinction of being on the top list of Invisalign providers in Tennessee.
I am a member of the American Association of Orthodontics, Tennessee Association of Orthodontics, The Southern Association of Orthodontics, Tennessee Dental Association, American Dental Association, Nashville Dental Society, Millennium Study Club, and recently lead a Spear Study Club. Additionally, I serve on the board of Daystar.
On a less serious note, but more personal note: Other things I love and enjoy: my wife, my kids, my mother and father, my job, my staff, running, marathons (most notable: Boston Marathon), biking, triathlons (Notice I did not include swimmingtrying to learn to love it!), seeing old friends, making new friends, Ole Miss, the Grove, my in-laws (seriously), brother and his spouse, sister and her family, my God, our church, sweet tea, chocolate chip cookies, fruit, steak (med. rare to rare), fried chicken (although I dont eat much), the beach, seafood gumbo, a little singing in the office, dancing (and trust me, UNINHIBITED!), Newton, Mississippi (hometown), Neshoba County Fair (look it up), my fair cousins (Stubbs & Tannehills), football, baseball, basketball, Predators, Titans, all genres of music (of course country!), Lightning 100, Nashville, TN, Alpine Camp for Boys, mowing my grass, Ponte Vedra, holidays, Chicago Cubs, the thought of running an ironman (3 young kidsthatll have to wait), pound cake slightly under cooked, taking trips with my family, taking trips alone with Anne (my wife), laughing a lot, out loud and oftenThe practice of orthodontics, the art of creating beautiful smiles and the many wonderful relationships I am able to develop with the patients and families I treat.
I am originally from Paducah, KY, also proudly known as the quilt capital of the world for you quilters out there. I obtained my Bachelors of Science in Biology from the University of Kentucky where I stayed to earn my dental degree at the UK College of Dentistry. After dental school, I completed my post-graduate orthodontic training at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as an Andrew McArthur Brooks Fellow where I received my certificate in Orthodontics and a Masters of Science degree. I bleed UK Blue with a hint of Tar Heel Blue. March Madness is my favorite time of year!
After graduation, I voluntarily completed the American Board of Orthodontics certification process to become a board-certified orthodontist, a distinction attained by only 30% of orthodontists nationwide.
My husband, James, and I have a son, Brooks, and baby daughter, Marcie. We are thrilled to have moved to Nolensville and look forward to becoming a part of this wonderful community. Outside of the office, I primarily enjoy spending quality time with family and friends. My family enjoy traveling, spending time at Kentucky Lake and Smith Lake during the summer, hiking, and cheering for the UK Wildcats!
I grew up in the small town of Camden, Arkansas. While most of my summers were spent riding four wheelers in the mud and going camping, I also traveled a lot with my family and developed adesire to see the world.
With my father being an oral surgeon and aninfluential figure in my life, I knew early on I wanted to go into dentistry as a career. After attending college in another small town at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, I ventured out to a bigger city for dental school. I received my Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree from the University Of Tennessee College Of Dentistry in Memphis, TN. While in Memphis, I developed an interest and passion for orthodontics.
I completed a 3 year Orthodontic program at Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. I received a certificate in Orthodontics and a Masters of Science in Dentistry.
My fianc, Danny, is also in the dental field and works as an endodontist in Belle Meade. We recently moved to Nashville and are enjoying exploring our new neighborhood. We have a fluffy, flat faced cat named Gouda that keeps us laughing and covered in white fur!
In my free time I love trying new restaurants, spending time with my niece and family, reading comic books, watching reality TV, and traveling. Send your honeymoon destination recommendations our way!
I moved to Lexington to attend the University of Kentucky, where I obtained a Bachelor of Science in psychology and a minor in biology. Although I love my Kentucky Wildcats, I chose to attend the University of Louisville for dental school.
After graduating, I moved to East Nashville with my husband and two dogs and practiced as a general dentist for three years. During that time, I gained a new appreciation for orthodontics and aspired to become a specialist.
I was raised in Bardstown, KY, a small town known for its numerous bourbon distilleries. I grew up doing gymnastics and was awarded a full athletic scholarship to Auburn University (unfortunately, I tore my ACL on ESPN my junior year). While attending Auburn, I obtained my Bachelors Degree in Biomedical Science and competed on the Varsity Gymnastics Team.
After undergrad, I attended dental school at the University of Louisville and graduated top of my class, obtaining a Doctorate Degree in Dental Medicine. After spending time shadowing in the orthodontic clinic, I decided to dedicate myself entirely to the specialty of orthodontics, completing an additional two years of orthodontic training while serving as the class president of the residency program at the University of Louisville.
My husband, Chris, and I met in 2010 and had a long-distance relationship until we got married in 2015 and I moved to Nashville to be with him. My greatest accomplishment is being a mommy to my three little blessings: Brooks (born in 2017), Marielle (born in 2018), and Lillian (born in 2020). I love spending time with them and watching them grow and learn.
I was born and raised in Charleston, WV. Fun fact, I grew up on the same street as actress Jennifer Garner. Growing up, I loved playing sports and doing anything outside. I come from a huge family of rabid Steelers fans and am not shy about it, sorry Titans fans.
I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry at West Virginia University Go Mountaineers! During college, I tutored students in chemistry, became a certified service dog trainer, and dabbled in floral design.
After college, I stayed at WVU to get my DDS. During dental school, I developed a love for orthodontics after shadowing in the ortho clinic at the school and at private practices. My passion for it led me to the University of Louisville, where I completed my orthodontics residency.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 46 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestTaye Nelson
2 years ago
There are not enough words to describe how incredible the team at Lucas Orthodontic is. I am an adult patient; I've wanted just a straighter smile for the past ten years. So finally decided that this was the time to do it. I was nervous (no real reason for it, but I was) that all melted away on my consultation. I got to meet Linda, who is just so incredibly kind, patient, and took the time to walk me through all of my options without ever making me feel like I needed to do one option over the other. I decided to go with braces because I thought it was the best option for my desired results. From Dr. Lucas to Dr. Carr, to the fantastic dental team who keep the environment fun, efficient, and at every appointment, everyone is treated with care. Every single person treated me as if I was not only a valued patient but genuinely interested in learning about me. When it came time for me to relocate due to a change in jobs, Dr. Carr provided a recommendation that ended up saving me a great deal of time and stress with moving across the country. If you or a loved one are looking for a team that will provide excellent care from day one and check in with you at every visit to make sure goals are being met, seriously, go no further. You've found the dream team.
Dance in Bloom Dance Studio
2 years ago
Back again for kid #2. Great experience like before. The entire staff is amazing, making us feel comfortable and welcomed at each station. The environment is bright and cheery. The service is top-notch. Highly recommend!
Jessie Lowe
3 years ago
The experience I've had at Lucas Orthodontic group has been amazing! The office is vibrant, the staff is incredibly nice, and I honestly enjoy my appointments due to the calming nature of the people and the space. Everyone has been wonderful and flexible through my Invisalign process and I felt fully prepared before I started my treatment. I'd rate them MORE than 5 stars if I could - I'm very glad I chose Lucas Orthodontic Group!
Kerry Stinson
3 years ago
My Son just got his braces on at Dr. Lucas office. Everyone that works there was very friendly from the front desk to the assistants. Linda and Joy at the front desk answered all of my questions and were so sweet. Kelly put on his braces and was very professional and made my son feel so relaxed. She was very detailed in her instructions for the care of his braces and made sure all of our questions were answered. I give this office 10 stars!
Polly Powers
3 years ago
I'm from out of town so I don't have an orthodontist here; however, I thought one of my brackets had broken so I had started calling around to different places to see if anyone could fix it or help me out. I ended up coming here and it was a great experience! They helped me out very quickly and all of the staff were so sweet and welcoming. Thank you for helping me out!
Jay Flawless
3 years ago
Dr. Lucas and his staff are the best in the busy. Especially his two associates, Rose and Kelly. I've had the best experience, the best results, and Dr. Lucas cares. Jaw surgery patient here and Dr. Lucas and my surgeon worked hand and hand to get me set up for surgery. After surgery, Dr. Lucas is working with the dentist to set me up for restorative work. Just this alone shows how much he truly cares for his patients and their results. Come down to Dr. Lucas Orthodontic Group and get the best care and best results.
Scott Wheatley
3 years ago
Dr. Lucas is great! Very engaging, funny, and has done great work for my son. He truly cares for each and every patient. The staff is very friendly and helpful as well. I would certainly recommend him!
V. Miller
3 years ago
Lucas Orthodontics is pretty cool, as far as orthodontics groups go. I feel like my teeth have improved a lot from their work. They also gave me a free t-shirt and sunglasses randomly, so that's nice! 5/5 stars a little something for everyone.
Reed Sullivan
3 years ago
Love this place! It's been such an easy experience doing Invisalign and they've been super helpful every step of the way!
Hadley Elkin
3 years ago
We are grateful for Dr. Jillian Nyquist and her wonderful team at Lucas Orthodontic Group! She has treated both of my children. Her assessments and treatment are accurate and needed. Dr. Nyquist gives you honest feedback and does not recommend unnecessary treatment. Her team is always friendly and helpful anytime we visit or call. My children enjoy visiting this office, which makes this parent happy! The Elkin family highly recommend Lucas Orthodontic Group.
Brandi Mcredmond
3 years ago
Fantastic experience! Everyone in the office is welcoming, kind, and knowledgeable! It helped to comfort my son before getting his braces put on his teeth.
Kristine Bennett
3 years ago
I was SO impressed with first, the easy location of the office. The kind friendly staff that greeted me, and how comfortable they made me feel. I had not been in an Orthodontist office in years and was majorly impressed with the advanced technology. All Ex rays and imaging were top of the line, thorough and quick. Once Dr. Lucas examined me , he explained my options thoroughly. He gave me a start to finish explanation, which was clear and easily understood. I was extremely impressed. Before I left, I knew exactly what to expect, as well as insurance approval, and options on payment. I was extremely pleased with the entire experience and extraordinary staff from sign in to sign out. I'm looking forward to my treatment! On a scale of one to ten, they are clearly a ten in my book! Kris Bennett
Jennifer Perry
3 years ago
Couldn't be happier! Dr. Lucas and the entire staff at the Belle Meade office are fantastic. They are always running on time, patient with our questions, and of course we get the best orthodontic treatment! The hours are unbelievably convenient- before school or in the evenings? So great. We've enjoyed our experience and can't recommend enough!
Sarah Decker
3 years ago
I have been an adult patient at the Lucas Ortho Belle Meade location for almost two years, and have had a great experience with this group! Everyone is so nice and helpful. Dr Lucas has developed a treatment plan that I am very comfortable with. Highly recommend!
Susy Anderson
3 years ago
We LOVE Lucas Orthodontic Group! His staff is incredibly kind and engaging, and Dr. Lucas' candid honesty is refreshing. It's clear Dr. Lucas loves kids and relates to them very easily- putting them at ease. They even give the kids a shirt when they get their braces on - just an example of how they go the extra mile. We've referred all of our friends to LOG - and all are happy customers. Here's my son sporting his Lucas sunglasses this summer - wearing them proud for all of his summer outings!
Katherine Romero
3 years ago
I'm very happy for have chosing Lucas Orthodontic group, starting with the service it's just awesome. Everyone is very kind and helpful. I loved my Invisaligners, they were flexible to give me enough trays when I needed to go out of the country and not loose my treatment. Their staff really show their care for the patients. Working in hospitality services it feels very nice to have a lot of compliments about my smile! That's why I strongly recommend them. #makeyasmile #paddleintosummer
toddsara wood
3 years ago
From the start our experience has been terrific! Friendly staff, clear explanations for procedure, scheduling appointments, easy & affordable payment plans. Dr Lucas has been excellent with each of our three children!
Tracy Clardy
3 years ago
I don't even know how to express how much we love Dr. Lucas and the staff at Lucas Orthodontics! We were referred to Dr. Lucas by our general dentist years ago when we found out our daughter had some very unique dental needs that would require a team effort between the dentist, orthodontist, and others over a long period of time. We literally spent years just in consultations with Dr. Lucas before ever getting into braces, and each time we've visited, my daughter has been treated like royalty! We live out of town, and Dr. Lucas's office has always gone out of their way to accommodate us for appointment times that made life a little bit easier for our long commute, and their staff and team are just the friendliest, kindest, most caring people ever! Dr. Lucas has gone above and beyond to give my daughter a beautiful smile and we just can't thank him enough for caring for her and wanting the absolute best for her! He truly has been a blessing and an answer to prayers!
Jessica Carson
3 years ago
Started ortho treatment for the second time as an adult because of my teeth shifting after first time. Paid out of pocket,no insurance, and started treatment, had a couple of refinements. Towards the end of treatment, my bottom teeth were still crowded and i mentioned this to the assistant and they just said, we can put plastic on them??? I was so shocked, i just let her continue making the retainers and went on my way. So, I finished my treatment with still crowded teeth and now my case is supposedly expiring and I wasted my money. Also, when I started treatment and received my first aligners, it was difficult to talk and the front desk worker laughed at me...I was very embarrassed and upset. Thank you. Would not recommend.
Nancy Hoots
3 years ago
Lucas Orthodontics is truly the BEST Orthodontic group in Middle Tennessee! Dr. Lucas and his staff are professional, skilled and extremely knowledgeable in treating all types of orthodontic issues....all of my children have received personalized and top notch care. Linda, in the Belle Meade front office, is genuinely interested in the lives of the patients. She is always upbeat, positive and easy to work with in scheduling appointments and getting information for you. She is truly a bright light within a practice that SHINES in ALL AREAS!!!
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