When Dr. Ashley Dawson first stepped into Super Dentist Boost Camp in 2018, she wasn’t exactly sure what her path would look like. What she did bring with her was a clear vision, determination, and a genuine eagerness to learn, connect, and grow in a profession she was still discovering.
Once a camper with a dream, Ashley understood how important it is to support others who share that same passion and drive but may not yet have the connections or resources. She stepped into the role of mentor in other campers’ journeys, living Boost’s mantra, “Find a mentor, be a mentor,” in real time.
Fast forward to 2026, and that same determination has grown into a thriving dental practice, national recognition, and now a return to Boost Camp,this time as a star panelist. This is what Boost is all about: connection, growth, and grit.
Dr. Ashley Dawson is joining us as a panelist at the 9th Annual Super Dentist Boost Camp, happening Thursday, April 23 – Sunday, April 26, 2026. This is an event you won’t want to miss, join the waitlist here.
Before diving into Ashley’s full story, watch this quick video of her sharing her dream at Boost Camp.
A Passion Discovered Early
Dr. Dawson’s journey into dentistry didn’t begin in a lecture hall or anatomy lab, it began with real human connection. Growing up in Georgia, she was drawn to the way dentists could transform lives not just through clinical skill, but through relationships. Early opportunities to shadow a dentist showed her how empowering a healthy smile could be, and she knew she had found her calling.
Her competitive spirit was honed long before dental school. With a background in gymnastics and competitive cheerleading, earning two state championships and one world championship, Dr. Dawson’s work ethic was forged in motion, precision, and performance. These early triumphs grounded her in discipline and resilience, qualities that continue to define the way she practices dentistry today.
Education & Early Professional Steps
Dr. Dawson’s academic journey took her to the University of Oregon, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree. From there, she pursued her dream of dentistry at Howard University College of Dentistry, earning her DDS. Not content to stop with classroom learning, she completed a rigorous General Practice Residency at NYU Lutheran Medical Center in 2017, gaining hands-on experience in complex clinical care.
But her story isn’t just about credentials. It’s about the heart behind them, the empathy she brings to every patient and the personal understanding of why dentistry matters beyond teeth.
Launching Dawson Modern Dentistry
In 2021, that vision became reality with the opening of Dawson Modern Dentistry in Matthews, North Carolina, a practice built around modern care, comfort, and connection. From the moment patients walk in, they’re met with an atmosphere that feels far from a typical dental office. Thoughtful amenities, like ceiling-mounted TVs, noise-canceling headphones, blankets, and even Netflix streaming, set the tone for a relaxed and welcoming experience.
But the thoughtful touches go deeper than comfort. Dr. Dawson intentionally structured her practice to provide comprehensive care under one roof, from clear aligners and dental crowns to emergency services and preventative treatments. The mission is clear: help patients live their best lives with healthy, confident smiles.
In addition to clinical excellence, Dr. Dawson has placed community and compassion at the heart of her practice. Through partnerships with organizations like the Foundation for Girls, the office sponsors care packages for mothers and children in need, giving back in ways that reach beyond the dental chair.
Recognition: America’s 40 Under 40 Top Dentists
In early 2025, Dr. Dawson’s dedication to both dentistry and her community was nationally recognized when she was named one of America’s 40 Under 40 Top Dentists by Incisal Edge magazine, a prestigious honor that highlights rising leaders in dental care. Out of nearly 200,000 licensed dentists across the United States, only 40 are selected each year, making this accolade a true testament to her excellence, innovation, and patient-centered approach to care.
For Dr. Dawson, the honor wasn’t just about professional achievement, it was personal. She has spoken openly about her upbringing, the challenges her family faced, and the inspiration she drew from her mother’s resilience. That experience shaped her belief in building a stable, meaningful career that still leaves room for compassion, generosity, and balance.
What Sets Her Apart
Patients and peers alike note that what makes Dr. Dawson exceptional isn’t just her clinical skill, but her ability to make dentistry feel human. She listens first, learning the story behind the smile, and treats second. One of her most memorable patient relationships involved a 94-year-old patient whose emotional experience reminded her exactly why she chose this profession: dentistry is not just about teeth, but about dignity, connection, and trust.
This patient-first philosophy permeates every aspect of her practice. Whether calming dental anxiety, explaining each step of treatment, or celebrating the confidence that comes with a new smile, Dr. Dawson’s approach reflects deep empathy and genuine care.
Coming Full Circle: Boost Camp 2026
Now, in 2026, Dr. Dawson is returning to where much of her early professional inspiration began at Super Dentist Boost Camp. But this time, she’s not a camper. She’s a panelist, mentor, and leader, bringing full circle a journey that began with curiosity and has grown into national recognition and a thriving community impact.
Her story, from a young dentist hungry to learn, to an award-winning practice owner shaping the future of dentistry, is a powerful testament to what’s possible with resilience, community, and a commitment to making every smile matter. If you’d like to join Dr. Ashley Dawson and other amazing dentisting humans at Super Dentist Boost Camp Thursday, April 23 - Sunday, April 26, 2026, you can join the waitlist to be the first to know if spots become available. You can also add your name to the waitlist for Super Dentist Boost Camp 2027 and stay in the loop for future opportunities.