When you step into Elevation Orthodontics, Nashville’s first adult-only orthodontic practice, there’s an immediate sense that this is more than just a place to straighten teeth. It’s a reflection of Dr. Brice Gilliam’s vision, his values, and his deep connection to the city he calls home. For Dr. Gilliam, happiness isn’t just a fleeting moment—it’s what happens when time, energy, and purpose all align. “Happiness isn’t easy,” he reflects, “but when everything points in the same direction, even challenges feel meaningful.” That mindset has driven him to create a practice he wakes up excited for every morning, one that reflects his belief in living and working with intention.
He often finds inspiration in a Nashville sunset, watching the sky turn brilliant shades of orange and pink while thinking about how much the city has grown—and how much he’s grown alongside it. His journey is one of resilience, risk-taking, and a commitment to building something that feels purposeful. At the heart of his success is what he calls relentless ownership: taking full responsibility for both wins and setbacks, constantly pushing to improve and grow. “You have to own the outcomes,” he says. “If you take responsibility, you can take control of your future.”
That philosophy was shaped largely by his greatest inspiration, his mother. Watching her navigate life’s hardships with strength and grace gave him a model of resilience that he carries into every part of his life and business. Her influence reminds him that perseverance is just as important as ambition, and that growth often comes through the toughest moments.
If Dr. Gilliam could go back and give advice to his younger self, he would encourage patience with the process while maintaining urgency in his efforts. “Believe in yourself,” he says. “You don’t have to know it all—you just have to know enough.” Those words have guided him as he’s built Elevation Orthodontics into a space that represents more than just orthodontic care. For him, this practice is about empowering others to take ownership of their journey, embrace challenges, and trust the alignment of purpose and passion.
In a city that thrives on creativity, hustle, and growth, Dr. Gilliam’s story is a testament to what happens when you commit to meaning over convenience, discipline over shortcuts, and vision over fear. Like the sunsets he admires, his path is a blend of reflection and forward movement—a constant reminder that true success is found in the balance between resilience and joy.
