Meet Our Team
MEET DR. STEVEN CAKMES
Growing up, Steven Cakmes spent a lot of time in his dad’s office. Watching his father interact with patients is what sparked his own interest in the dental field. A Knoxville native himself, he is excited about coming back to his hometown and serving the community he grew up with.
“I have a strong sense of community and becoming a dentist in the area I grew up, and being able to give back to that community makes me happy.”
Dr. Steven earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga and received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. When he’s not at Cakmes Dental Studio, Steven enjoys outdoor activities like running, camping, and tending to his garden. He is a Remote Area Medical Volunteer and does volunteer work with the Knoxville County Health Department
Steven credits a lot of his success and accomplishments to the support of his family. “My family has always been very supportive and have encouraged me to follow my dreams. It takes a village to get to where I’m at, and they have been that village for me.”
MEET DR. MELISSA KEMINK, DDS
Dr. Melissa Kemink is a dedicated and compassionate dentist providing exceptional care to all patients. Her approach to dentistry is rooted in understanding and meeting the individual needs of her patients. With a deep passion for dentistry, she is committed to delivering the highest quality of care. Dr. Kemink strives to make every visit comfortable and personalized, ensuring her patients leave with healthy, beautiful smiles.
Dr. Kemink graduated from Loma Linda School of Dentistry in 2013 and has continually advanced her skills through ongoing education and hands-on learning. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, Tennessee Dental Association, Second District Dental Society, and Spear Study Club.
Outside the office, Dr. Kemink enjoys spending time in the great outdoors with her husband and two sons. Biking, camping, and hiking—especially in the beautiful Smoky Mountains—are some of her favorite ways to spend time with family.
DR. NICK CAKMES (Founder, Now Retired)
For decades, Dr. Cakmes led our practice with a gentle, patient-first approach in general and cosmetic dentistry. Patients often remarked that he was the gentlest dentist they’d ever known—a reputation built on careful technique and genuine care for every person in the chair.
A proud University of Tennessee alumnus, he earned his B.A. in Microbiology in 1981 and his DDS from the UT College of Dentistry in 1985. Throughout his career, he stayed actively engaged in continuing education and professional organizations, reflecting his commitment to high standards of clinical excellence.
Now retired, Dr. Cakmes is enjoying a well-earned slower pace—spending more time with his family and playing pickleball. His legacy of compassionate, high-quality care continues to shape our culture and guide the work of every provider on our team.
Rachel
Hygienist
Becca
Dental Assistant
Ashley
Hygienist
