We had the good fortune of connecting with Drs. Andrew & Joya Lyons and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Drs. Andrew & Joya, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

Dr. Drew: The thought process is truly one of unlimited growth. I had a highly successful associateship but still dealt with career unfulfillment. I wanted the freedom to evolve and push the boundaries of my abilities without burdening anyone but myself.

Dr. Joya: Growing up, I never thought I would ever own a business because it was never a goal of mine. It was not until I graduated from dental school and started working as a dentist that I quickly realized the only way for me to get fulfillment in this career is to do it on my own terms. After three years of us both being associate dentists, God led us to start the process of opening our own dental office.


Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

Since its inception, Smile Savvy Cosmetic Dentistry has focused heavily on helping those in the community – and beyond – get the smiles they have always wanted. Specializing in veneers and serving clients nationally, Smile Savvy Cosmetic Dentistry celebrates eight years of business this year. Through our nonprofit organization, the Lyons Share, we also serve the community through our smile makeovers to help those in need with employment prospects and opportunities.

In August 2021, the Charlotte Hornets announced a new partnership with Smile Savvy Cosmetic Dentistry. Under the agreement, we became the only Black-owned dental partner in the NBA and one of few Black-owned companies to hold a partnership deal with the league.

We pride ourselves on our teamwork and doing what we say we are going to do. We both have a ton of perseverance to push forward where others may hold back. Authenticity is one of the most crucial factors behind the success of our brand. We are true to ourselves and becoming increasingly more comfortable in our own skin. We only do the procedures we feel we have mastered at this stage of our career.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There are so many things to do, places to eat and sites to see in Atlanta. Whenever we visit for a short weekend, we like to do as much as we can. That is why “The Battery Atlanta” is our go-to spot to enjoy shopping, eating and entertainment. Go Braves!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
We want to dedicate our shoutout to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). We must thank the institutions that raised and ultimately made us. We’re both two-time HBCU grads — for undergrad, Dr. Drew attended North Carolina Central University, and Dr. Joya attended Hampton University. We both attended dental school at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry.

Website: https://www.smilesavvydentistry.com

Instagram: @drdrewlyons_drjoyalyons

Facebook: @lyonsdentistry

Image Credits
Brandon Grate Photography

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