We recently had the chance to connect with Dr. Anastasia Orakwue and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Anastasia, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me starts at home, being Mom first. Mornings are full of lunch boxes, lost shoes, and quick hugs before heading out the door.
Once I’m at Smile Worth Dental Co., it’s all about creating smiles. We start with a quick team huddle, then the day flows with patients, laughter, and the kind of work that reminds me why I love dentistry.
By evening, I’m back home to making dinner, homework, soccer practice and family time. It’s busy, “balanced” and I’m grateful for both worlds I get to pour into.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Dr. Anastasia Orakwue, owner of Smile Worth Dental Co. in Fort Worth. Before I ever became a dentist, I was a collegiate basketball player , so teamwork, focus, and perseverance have always been part of who I am. These days, I bring that same energy to caring for my patients (and to my ongoing efforts as a tennis player wannabe).
My mornings start at home as “Mom,” making sure everyone’s out the door with what they need before heading to the office. Once I’m at Smile Worth Dental Co., my goal is simple to help people feel comfortable, confident, and cared for. From everyday dentistry to cosmetic transformations and facial aesthetics, I love combining skill with compassion to make every patient’s experience a positive one.
I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Meharry Medical College and completed a General Practice Residency before starting Smile Worth Dental Co. Here, dentistry goes beyond teeth ,it’s about people, connection, and creating smiles that truly reflect who you are.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I am the first daughter of Nigerian immigrants raised on faith, discipline, and the belief that I could be anything I wanted to be. But in my family, greatness wasn’t a choice; it was an expectation. That drive shaped everything I’ve become; as a dentist, a business owner, a mom, and a woman constantly balancing purpose with grace.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self to stop trying to control every outcome. Breathe, enjoy the now, and let happiness be enough.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
1. “If it doesn’t hurt, nothing’s wrong.”
I hear this all the time, but pain is the last thing to show up. By the time something hurts, it’s usually been a problem for a while. Prevention > reaction.
2. “Dental insurance covers everything.”
Dental insurance isn’t actually insurance the way we think of it. It’s more of a benefit plan with a yearly spending limit (most haven’t changed since the 1970s ). It helps, but it’s not designed to cover all your care.
3. “Cleanings are optional.”
Nope. They’re maintenance for your mouth, like oil changes for your car. You can skip them, but you won’t like the results.
4. “Baby teeth don’t matter.”
They do. They hold space for adult teeth, help your child chew, talk, and smile with confidence. Healthy habits start early.
5. “Cosmetic dentistry is just about looks.”
Yes, it gives you a gorgeous smile, but it also improves function, bite, and confidence. It’s health and aesthetics.
6. “All dentists are the same.”
Every dentist brings their own philosophy, training, and touch. At Smile Worth Dental Co., we focus on education, prevention, and helping you actually enjoy your visit.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
Being great isn’t about titles it’s about impact.
I was raised to be excellent, but I’ve learned that greatness isn’t about being perfect; it’s about using your gifts to lift others up and using whatever platform you have to help others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.yourfortworthdentist.com
- Instagram: smileworthdentalco
- Facebook: Smile Worth Dental Co.
- Youtube: Smile Worth Dental Co.
