Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanner Godfrey.
Hi Tanner, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up in a small town outside of Logan as the second oldest of 7 siblings. My dad owned his own company, and I spent many weekends helping him with tasks either at his warehouse or at our home. After high school, I attended Utah State University, majoring in biochemistry. During my undergraduate training I gained a love for research, which led me to pursue a dental PhD program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). I completed my doctorate in dentistry (DMD) and a PhD in biochemistry. During dental school I discovered a love for the field of orthodontics and was blessed to be able to complete my orthodontic residency at UAB as well. After completing residency, my family and I moved back to Cache Valley. I started practicing orthodontics in Syracuse at Coleman Orthodontics and in Idaho Falls at East Idaho Orthodontics. Ultimately, my plan has been to open my own practice in Cache Valley. We found an ideal location in Nibley near the new middle school and began working to create the practice of our dreams. With the help of Steven Mansfield, a lecturer in architecture at Utah State, our dream started to become a reality. We designed the building to be open and welcoming with lots of natural lighting and high levels of energy efficiency. Coming from a family with a background in construction, I had the unique opportunity to work on my off days with my dad doing the excavation and with my brother doing the windows and HVAC.
Aside from the building, we’ve designed a state-of-the-art orthodontic practice with the industry’s leading technology in orthodontics. New patients receive 3D X-rays for advanced diagnosis, digital smile design, and treatment personalization. We are equipped with a 3D scanner that allows patients to skip the goopy molds while allowing them to visualize the alignment of their teeth and simulation of their future smile. We offer treatment with Invisalign, including the new Invisalign Palatal Expander, as well as clear and traditional metal braces. Our practice is designed to make the orthodontic experience as stress free and comfortable as possible for our patients.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been a long road, and with any path, it has had its challenges. Balancing school and family life while living far away from our immediate families was a challenge, but ultimately helped my wife, kids, and I draw closer together. The construction and business process have both been large learning experiences, but we have been blessed with many wonderful mentors that have helped us so much along the way.
As you know, we’re big fans of Godfrey Orthodontics. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
As a small business owner and doctor, I wear many hats. On the business side I oversee the daily operations, marketing, accounting and managing my employees. As a doctor, my focus is to provide the highest level of care and an excellent experience for my patients. I do this through staying up-to-date on the latest research and technology in the field. I am also always excited to hear patient feedback and seek to follow through on any changes needed.
At Godfrey Orthodontics we pride ourselves on making orthodontic care convenient, affordable and the best technology and science has to offer.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Find someone that you admire and find ways to connect with them. As an undergraduate student I offered to volunteer in the lab of my chemistry professor that I looked up to. Through that experience I gained valuable experience that led to me completing a PhD and changing the trajectory of my schooling. Be persistent, it takes time and sometimes repeated efforts to build mentor-mentee relationships.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.godfreyorthodontics.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godfreyorthodontics/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574001786633
