Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Carla Givan.
Hi Dr. Givan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Carla Givan. I am the youngest daughter of two Jamaican parents that immigrated to the US. I was raised in Decatur, GA and graduated from Southwest Dekalb High School. I didn’t grow up going to the dentist regularly, but after I started working at the age of 14, I decided to pay for dental visits myself. Looking back, that seems like such an odd thing for a teenager to do- work for $5 an hour for dental work, but it was important to me. My parents grew up with no access to a dentist unless they needed a tooth taken out. They always made sure that we brushed and flossed well and instilled in us the importance of caring for your teeth if you want to keep them.
I ended up in a dental office in Lithonia, GA, that happened to be owned by a black woman. This was my first time having a doctor that looked like me. She referred me to her husband that was an orthodontist. He graduated from Howard’s residency program. Once I mentioned to him that I had interest in becoming a dentist, we discussed Meharry Medical College and dentistry at almost every appointment. I completed my treatment with him right before I went away to Los Angeles to complete a summer program at USC.
After attending Hampton University and graduating from The University of Georgia, I continued my studies in Nashville, TN, at Meharry Medical College. Right before leaving Nashville, I met my now-husband and we decided to move across the country together. We soon got married, got a puppy and had a beautiful daughter. I associated for a few dental practices for many years and became the Dental Director for four clinics. After serving in different roles, I discovered my practice style and knew that one day I wanted to open my own office.
By this time, we realized being close to family is extremely important to both of us so we moved back to GA. After settling back in, Covid struck and all dental offices were closed and had an unsure future. Instead of fear, I chose faith. Faith that at some point, the pandemic would be under control. Faith that offices would be able to open again safely. I made a huge gamble and decided to open my own dental practice during a time that banks weren’t even loaning because the future of dentistry looked so precarious.
“If there’s one thing I’m willing to bet on, it’s myself.”- Beyoncé
After a few months of 12-16 hour days and extremely hard work, my office was ready to be open. Six months later, here I am with a dental practice that is growing at an unbelievable pace and an amazing team that believes in my vision. My family is healthy and happy. We are blessed and I’m so thankful.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
There were many obstacles encountered along the way. So many times that I could’ve given up and anyone would’ve understood. What I can say is when you’re walking in the path you’re supposed to, solutions have already been made for problems you had no idea you’d encounter. Just keep walking…
As you know, we’re big fans of Calm Dentistry. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Calm Dentistry is located in the Snellville/Grayson area of Georgia. Our mission is to provide high-quality, affordable dental treatment in a calm and comforting environment. We love to care for our patients with extra special complimentary amenities such as: TVs in the ceiling where patients can watch their favorite Netflix show, Disney plus or the news, Warm tea, Snacks, Warm aromatherapy neck wraps, Noise canceling headphones, Shaded glasses during treatment, Free wifi, Choice of a variety of aromatherapy scents, Warm towels after treatment.
Our office provides treatment for both adults and children. We are in network with most PPO dental insurances. We can be reached at 470-474-CALM (2256).
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
So many people helped me throughout my life by speaking life into my dreams. Thank you God, my mom, dad and sister, husband, daughter, The Hardy’s, my amazing group of girlfriends and my former teachers/professors.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@graysoncalmdentistry.com
- Website: www.graysoncalmdentistry.com
- Instagram: Dr.CalmDentistry
- Facebook: Calm Dentistry
Image Credits
The first 2 are markleephoto
