Dr. LaFever was born and raised in Nashville. While finishing dental school in Memphis, he met his wife Leigh Ellen (she was attending Pharmacy school). They married in December 1983 and have two grown children, Lauren (husband Trevor) and Luke. Dr. LaFever and his wife have lived in Mt. Juliet since 1993. During his youth, he loved to do various types of art work, especially sculpting, leather work, and oil painting. He has always had excellent hand dexterity and an eye for color, form and shade. These attributes, as well as a love of science, are the qualities that led him to pursue a career in dentistry. He saw it as a field in which he could be both an artist and a scientist. Other areas of interest include the Bible and Biblical apologetics, science and theology. He enjoys most sports, especially golf.
He began private practice in Hermitage, Tennessee in 1985 after serving in the Navy. In 2009 he opened Providence Dental Care in Mount Juliet. Dr LaFever has completed numerous continuing education hours in various dental treatment modalities, including Orthodontics (Braces), Prosthodontics (Caps, Crowns, Dentures), Periodontics (Gum Treatment), Sedation Dentistry and Implants, and Cosmetic Dentistry. Providence Dental Care staff and he will always continue to increase their knowledge of newer and better ways to help his patients improve and maintain their oral health. Dr. LaFever is a member in good standing of the following dental organizations: American Dental Association, Tennessee Dental Association and the Nashville Dental Society.
University of Tennessee College of Dentistry, Class of 1982. Graduated 7th in graduating class of 146. Certificate of Scholarship, academic year of 1980-81. Certificate of Honor entire course of Dentistry
Dr. Gunnels was raised in Mount Juliet. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville, TN in 2001. After working for a year, he decided to pursue another career. Josh wanted a people-oriented profession that encompassed his science background and a love of working with his hands. Dentistry has been a perfect fit! After adding a few biology courses, he attended the University Of Tennessee School Of Dentistry in Memphis, graduating in 2008. Dr. Gunnels felt a strong desire to return home to Mount Juliet in hopes of starting a dental practice where he could serve the community with integrity, compassion, and gentle care.
On a personal note, Josh and Jenna were high school sweethearts! While Josh was in dental school in Memphis, Jenna was attending Western Kentucky Dental Hygiene School. They were married a month after both graduating in 2001. They have two children, Aubrey and Addison. Josh enjoys hiking, fishing, staying active, and helping at their local church. He is always looking for new ways to grow and expand his knowledge in the field of dentistry.
Dr. Gunnels is a member in good standing of the following dental organizations: American Dental Association, Tennessee Dental Association, Academy of General Dentists, and the Nashville Dental Society.
Dr. Bierlein was born and raised in Michigan. He graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Science in Zoology. He furthered his education at Tulane University where he earned a Master of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology. Dr. Bierlein attended dental school at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, graduating in 2018. He and his fianc, Lauren, met in Nashville in 2016 and are so excited to call Nashville home!
Community has always been a passion for Dr. Bierlein. He enjoyed Boy Scouts gaining the rank of Eagle Scout. He has appreciated giving back throughout his life. Dr. Bierlein has worked with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Indian Health Services, and Remote Area Medical. He has been able to use his dental skills providing dental care in the Dominican Republic and Chattanooga, TN. Today in Nashville, he enjoys providing dental services at the Interfaith Dental Clinic.
Outside of the office, Dr. Bierlein enjoys the outdoors especially fishing or hiking. He is also a big sports fan. Dr. Bierlein supports his alma mater, Michigan State Spartans and all the Detroit teams. And, of course, he has added the Predators and Titans to his favorites!