Jennifer Ryan, DMD, MS
Board Certified Orthodontist
Being an orthodontist is my dream job – and our patients are a huge part of that. I couldn’t imagine a better way to start every day than by seeing so many smiles. I knew I wanted to be an orthodontist when I had my own orthodontic treatment. I was the only person in my family to have braces, so it was a really big deal to me! I still remember the incredible change I felt when my braces came off and now I’m glad I can provide that feeling to so many residents of North Georgia. Forming a relationship with my patients is my favorite part of my job, and being a role model for others who have an interest in the dental or medical profession is definitely a close second!
Outside the Office
I was born in McAllen, Texas, and am the oldest of 3 siblings. When I was 13, I moved across the country with my family to a small town in Georgia. My time in the Peach State continued for my undergraduate degree and then earning my Doctor of Dental Science degree from Dental College of Georgia, in Augusta. I completed my orthodontic residency back in my home state of Texas at Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry, and now I’m happy to be making a home right up the road from Dalton. When I’m not making our patients smile, I love to cuddle up with my two miniature schnauzers for a short nap or search for the best slice of pizza with my husband, Wes. I also enjoy cooking with new foods and traveling whenever I can!
Tyler Prentice, DMD, MS
Board Certified Orthodontist
I am so fortunate to be an orthodontist. It really is the best job in the world. I get to work with a great team and everyday we create beautiful smiles for the nicest people—our patients. The process that we go through together, and the results we achieve, makes it difficult to say goodbye when treatment is complete. It is truly a joy to provide beautiful smiles and see my patients grow and succeed in so many ways.
Outside the Office
I am originally from Canada, born and raised just outside Toronto, Ontario. At 17, I moved down to the Chattanooga area to attend college. It was here where I fell in love with the mountains, rivers and also my future wife, Stacey.
After spending seven years in Birmingham, Alabama, for dental school and orthodontic residency, Stacey and I were thrilled to return home to Chattanooga! (We also brought back a couple of souvenirs – our children Ben and Katie Beth…and have since added another, Will!)
When I’m not enhancing the views of my patients, I enjoy fly fishing, camping and hiking, water and motor sports and generally just spending time outdoors, taking in all that this Scenic City has to offer!
Education
The University of Alabama School of Dentistry, Dept. of Orthodontics
Location: Birmingham, AL | Degree: Masters and Certificate in Orthodontics
The University of Alabama School of Dentistry
Location: Birmingham, AL | Degree: Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) • Graduating at the top of the class
Continuing Education
While earning my degrees in dentistry and orthodontics, I was the recipient of several awards recognizing my commitment to excellence in the field in both academics and research. And now I take 50 hours of CE credits every two years to stay current with the scientific and technological changes occurring in the specialty of orthodontics.
Memberships
I am proud to be board certified by the American Board of Orthodontists and am a member of the following organizations:
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Southern Association of Orthodontists
- Academy of General Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- Tennessee Dental Association
- Chattanooga Area Dental Society
