Exploring Life & Business with Dr. Robert Nay of NAY Orthodontics

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Robert Nay.

Hi Dr. Robert, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I knew I wanted to be a physician as far back as the eighth grade while attending Norwin West Middle School. I wanted to practice medicine; provide healthcare. Known well for being blessed with a gift to gab and clown around, my guidance counselor thought I was joking, but I knew that my education and love for science, technology, engineering and math was no laughing matter. I dreamed of a professional career that would include my favorite topics, all people and an abundance of laughter.

I attended Washington and Jefferson in Washington, PA, a small, private school that ranked 3rd in the country for pre-med, where I began my med school journey. While there, I had a change of heart, realizing it was a person’s smile that I specifically wanted to focus on. I had lost my front teeth in a bike accident at eight years old and was treated by a variety of dental specialists over a three years period of time. The end result – LIFE CHANGING. No longer did I hide my smile from the world. That feeling of great confidence and pride was so deep, something I remember so vividly. I wanted to be a part of that journey for another who may be feeling the same embarrassment or dissatisfaction as I once did. I wanted to provide life-changing dental healthcare.

So off to four years of dental school I went where I enjoyed studying every aspect of dentistry in depth, including a rotation in Orthodontics at The University of Pittsburgh. This rotation stood out from the rest as the patient’s demeanor was most times lively and upbeat. They arrived to appointments comfortable and motivated; determined to improve the esthetics of their smile. From there, I applied to The University of Pittsburgh’s School of Dental Medicine’s Orthodontic Residency Program and was selected for their 3-year Specialty Program. It was an experience like no other; enhancing smiles alongside brilliant-minded educators and fellow residents.

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 certainly did not come easy. To be completely honest, it involved heartbreaking hardships and loss, which ultimately taught me some pretty tough life lessons early on in my career. I’m actually quite fortunate to have experienced these setbacks when I did. They prepared me with what I needed to know; propelling me to where I am today.

Directly after completing my orthodontic residency, I traveled to San Antonia, Texas where I began training as a Military Officer for The United States Army. I was stationed in Stuttgart, Germany from 2004-2007 and when I returned home, the housing market crashed. The abundance of orthodontic associate opportunities had dwindled. Many who had planned to soon retire and sell their practice were no longer in the position to do so. So, I worked as an associate until 2012 then forced myself to step out of my comfort zone and build my own practice in a suburb of Raleigh, NC named Morrisville. Here I opened NAY orthodontics, Morrisville’s FIRST orthodontic specialty practice.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about NAY orthodontics?
Well, I’ve specialized in orthodontics for over 20 years, and here’s what makes my office special:

I’ve worked in huge orthodontic practices that see 100 or more patients a day, and honestly, you start wondering if you’re really delivering quality care when you’re that busy. Relationships are huge for my practice. We intentionally schedule half of the size number of patients per day so that we can really focus on not only the treatment but also building rapport with these patients. Quality over quantity.

At NAY Orthodontics, we believe if you’re going to have 1-2 years invested in time and money that you should personally know the doctor that you’re investing with.

One thing I value about our office is that we’re always going to be honest and genuine.

You can find us at www.NAYortho.com or on social media @NAYorthodontics.

We strive for perfection, and we love serving people. Would love to connect with everyone — especially in the Morrisville and Raleigh, NC area! We look forward to helping you have the best smile possible!

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Find what matters most for you, and ensure you take care of that first.

During this whole process with my practice, I believe there have been times when my family got put on the back burner. I’d compare myself to my colleagues and say I wanted this dream house or dream car, and I had these benchmarks for myself for what I wanted to accomplish.

But what I realized is that you have to focus on yourself, your own priorities and stay true to them.

Contact Info:

• Email: info@NAYortho.com
• Website: www.NAYortho.com
• Instagram: nayorthodontics
• Facebook: nayorthodontics
• Other: https://nextdoor.com/pages/nay-orthodontics-morrisville-nc/