Josh Drake, DMD
The seeds of Dr. Josh Drake's dental career may have been planted in his hometown of Hartselle, Alabama . Ms. Poole, Josh's 5 th grade math teacher at Crestline Elementary, memorably influenced his budding self-image as a gifted student who would set high goals, then achieve them. In later years, Dr. Mike McCutcheon, Josh's own family dentist, provided him with positive encouragement and enthusiasm.

"Talking with Dr. McCutcheon was a real turning point for me. He told me that as a dentist, he had it all. Success, time for family and outside interests as well as the satisfaction of helping people in a meaningful way." Josh grew up in a close knit family with parents who supported him. "I have always felt surrounded by a community of caring people even during my years in dental school at UAB. That's one of the things that attracted me to Dr. Steve Murphree's team. I saw right away that they are all committed to teamwork and first class patient care. I am very pleased to be returning to Morgan County to begin practice with Dr. Murphree."

Dr. Drake began undergraduate study at UAB in 1998, continuing there through his graduation from dental school in 2006. He studied post graduate level biochemistry prior to dental school and taught in the UAB anatomy labs during his Jr. and Sr. years, as well as working in the surgical clinic. "I feel fortunate to have been mentored by Dr. Tom Jones, the first oral surgery resident at UAB. He has been there over 40 hears and had so much experience and wisdom to share."

During graduation from UAB, Dr. Drake received three awards illustrative of his multi-faceted talents and skills. The Palmi Moller Award is presented to the student who has shown high academic and clinical proficiency in crown and bridge dentistry. The Horace Wells Award, presented by the American Dental Society of Anest6hesiology to Dr. Drake as the graduating senior who demonstrated outstanding achievement in the field of anesthesiology. And finally, the Delta Dental Award, which was presented to Dr. Drake in recognition of his strong leadership attributes.

After a summer backpacking trip with friends across European destinations including Paris, Barcelona, Madrid and more, he plans to settle in Decatur with his best buddy – a lab mix named Lou. "Lou supported me by keeping me company and quietly staring at me while I studied. She was my faithful companion throughout college – and will be with me as I begin my new career."

Josh Drake, DMD is currently available for new patients at The Murphree Center. He can be contacted at 256.350.5810 or via email at drdrake@murphreesmiles.com.

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