Nicole – Front Desk Goddess
I have been in dentistry since 2002. I enjoy helping patients and have worked in all areas of the dental office which has equipped me to be versatile in helping our team and patients. Outside of the office, I spend my time on the move as a mom, enjoying every moment that I can with my boys. I also love to cook and be outdoors doing anything in my garden!
Sonya – New Patient Advocate
I have been Dr. Highsmith’s New Patient Advocate for many years. I love meeting our new patients. I enjoy building new relationships with them, working through their treatment concerns, and helping them create workable financial options to meet their goal.
I’m a Tennessee native and have been in the dental industry since 2000. In my free time, I enjoy my family, camping, reading and crafting. And do ask me about my grandson, Gunner.
Agata “Aggie” – Dental Assistant
I began my professional dental career in 2023, at the age of 35. My mom was a skilled dental assistant for 30 years, and she instilled into my core the importance of keeping your mouth healthy for the good of your overall health and wellness.
I am a dental assistant because I love helping people feel and look their best. I am also a dental assistant because dentists need heroes, too! All joking aside, my occupational goals and desires always included helping others. This service goal took several forms in my professional career, including 13 years as a theatrical makeup artist. I’m so glad to be here for you in your dental journey.
I have lived in Poland, Germany, and the US. I love to travel and enjoy exploring wherever I go. In my free time, I like to read thriller/crime books and take dog portraits. Life is simply too beautiful to be afraid to learn and to embrace new things.
Ateia – Dental Assistant
I have been in dentistry since 2001. It’s inspiring to observe how changing a smile can transform a life. Working side by side with our talented and skilled colleagues makes being part of this team very gratifying.
Dr. Highsmith and Dr. Jernigan share a strong desire for us to succeed in our personal and career goals. We continually update our education and training to help you be your best, using the latest technology and materials.
I’m proud to be a dedicated, hard worker. I have worked since I was fourteen, and have a real passion for taking care of others. At home, I like to can vegetables, work out, read thrillers, and spend time with family and friends.
My husband and I have two daughters, one almost in middle school and one about to graduate. We spend lots of time cheering them on at sporting events. My amazing family and Ace, our boxer, keep me on my toes and enrich my life every day.
Kelly – Dental Assistant
I’ve been in dentistry since 2015, and I relish helping our patients find their smile again. My career in banking has helped me build a strong foundation in communications and has helped me better understand their needs. I enjoy baking and craft work, and had my own small business making pearl jewelry. I like to walk outdoors in my free time, or read a good book.
As a South Carolina native, many of my family members still live in the Palmetto State. I dedicate a day every week to spend with my two grandkids, where we create great memories together and share each others’ lives. I love meeting new people and helping them find their value in this world.
Tara – Dental Assistant
I’ve worked in dentistry since 1994. Dr. Highsmith and I work hand in glove – I’m almost as good as the dentist! I love to travel, and I am always ready to go as often as opportunity arises – it’s rewarding and educational. I’m eager to learn anything new, in dentistry or other fields. Ask me where I’ve been recently!
Anna – Registered Dental Hygienist
Anna graduated from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College with an associate’s in dental hygiene, followed by a Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene from East Tennessee State University. She also has advanced training in orofacial myofunctional therapy from Neo Health Services and is now a Qualified Orofacial Myologist (QOM), having completed the Neo-Health Services (NHS) 28-hour course, Orofacial Myology.
Anna has been a dental assistant since 2013, began working as a dental hygienist in 2017, and has been part of our team since 2023. She believes this practice is unique because of the team’s extensive knowledge and dedication to always learning more to better serve their patients.
Anna’s responsibilities include assessing patients’ overall oral health, including dental hygiene and orofacial myofunctional therapy.
Outside the office, Anna enjoys traveling, trying new foods, and spending time with her husband, Tyler, and three kids, Millie, Luke, and Liam.
Laura – Dental Hygienist
Hi! I’m Laura and I’ve been with Dr. Highsmith since 1993. A Tennessee native, I began my career there in 1986. I enjoy the close-knit atmosphere of our dental team, who all strive for a common goal: To always provide our patients with optimal dental health. I’ve been married to Robbie since 1997, and we have a beautiful daughter, Emily.