Meet The Team



 


Dr. Frank Merendino, DDS

General Dentist

Dr. Merendino graduated from the University of Tennessee's College of Dentistry Program in Memphis. Growing up in Bristol, TN Dr. Merendino fell in love with our wonderful region and has now been in private practice in the beautiful Model City for over 8 years. Prior to private practice, Dr. Merendino had one year experience as an associate dentist in a general practice and also spent one year focusing on children's dental health at the Hawkins County Health Department. He is a member of the ADA, AGD and AACD. You will find him oftentimes volunteering at RAM or the Providence Medical Clinic. Dr. Merendino has a true interest in cosmetic and surgical procedures, including implants and restorations. He is continually pursuing continuing education courses to broaden his scope of practice to better assist his patients in making their dental goals a reality. In regards to dentistry, he enjoys the perfect combination of both engineering and artistry. He says, "I love helping people feel better about their smiles; from as small as a filling to a full reconstructive procedure, it's all fun to me!" Outside of work, you will find Dr. Merendino enjoying time with his wife and daughter, traveling, and enjoying many sports including playing golf, soccer, skiing, and snowboarding.


Karla

Registered Dental Hygienist

Karla graduated from the Wytheville Dental Hygiene School in 2014, and has worked in everything from Pediatrics to General Dentistry and Prosthodontics. She loves getting to know people and providing them with clean and healthy smiles. Outside of work, Karla loves spending time with her husband, her family and her fur baby dog Ellie.


Kennedy

Registered Dental Hygienist

Kennedy grew up in Greeneville and graduated from ETSU’s Dental Hygiene Program in 2023. She joined the Model City Dentistry family in July 2023. Kennedy is very excited to help patients on their journey to loving their smile! She says the best part about working with the team is the friendships she has made. Outside of work, Kennedy loves reading and spending time outdoors. If she’s not at work you can find her with her 3 dogs.


Katrina

Lead Dental Assistant, EFDA Trained

Katrina was a previous nurse aide for 8 years with MSHA, and graduated the Northeast State Program for Dental Assistants in 2017. She completed her EFDA (Expanded Functions Dental Auxillary) Program in 2020 from the UT College of Dentistry & Health Sciences Center.  This program is governed by the TN State Board of Dentistry and allows Katrina to spend more time chair side with our patients, placing composite restorations.  Katrina loves the staff in our office. She also loves working with Dr. Merendino because he is helpful and patient. Her favorite part of dentistry is seeing people smile after a procedure when they did not have the confidence to smile before the procedure! Outside of work, Katrina enjoys time with her family, Brett and Charlie, and her two dogs. She also enjoys playing and coaching volleyball, and any chance she gets to be outside with her family; especially doing swimming and hiking.


Andrea

Registered Dental Assistant, EFDA Trained

Andrea graduated from the Northeast State program for Dental Assistants in 2018. She completed her EFDA (Expanded Functions Dental Auxillary) Program in 2021 from the UT College of Dentistry & Health Sciences Center.  This program is governed by the TN State Board of Dentistry and allows Andrea to spend more time chair side with our patients, placing composite restorations.  Andrea's favorite part of dentistry is being able to play a part in improving smiles and boosting self confidence. She also loves being able to interact and build new relationships with the patients and staff at Dr. Merendino’s office. She has a passion for patient care & it shows in her interactions with everyone in the practice! Outside of work, Andrea loves spending time with her family and friends, traveling, and exploring outdoors.


Veronica

Registered Dental Assistant

Veronica graduated from Northeast State Community College in 2017 with an associates degree in Dental Assisting. Veronica was hand selected by her professor as the outstanding student in the Dental Assisting program and graduated with honors! In her spare time she enjoys hiking and backpacking with her boyfriend and two dogs. Other hobbies include kayaking, swimming, reading and traveling. Veronica's favorite part about working in the dental field is the interaction with patients and seeing people smile! Veronica has been a part of our Model City Dentistry family since October of 2021. 


Hannah

Patient Coordinator

Hannah grew up in the Tri-Cities and graduated from Dobyns Bennett High School. She is preparing to graduate with an Associates Degree from Northeast State Community College. Her favorite thing about working with Dr. Merendino is being able to connect with patients and being responsible for creating a comfortable atmosphere. Hannah has a zest for life and a positive spirit and you will instantly feel at ease when coming into our office and interacting with her. She has fallen in love with the dental field, and plans on continuing to learn more about the clinical art of dentistry. Outside of work, Hannah likes to go hiking with her friends, spend time with her family and pets, and go shopping!


Associations