Dr. Tecle's educational journey took him through both North Carolina and Maryland. He pursued his graduate studies in Mass Communication at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill before embarking on his Doctorate of Dental Surgery at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, in Baltimore which he completed in 2013. Following his dental education, Dr. Tecle returned to North Carolina, where he has dedicated the past 10 years to practicing dentistry focused on children and young adults in Fayetteville and Raleigh.

His commitment to dentistry for kids and young adults extends beyond his professional endeavors; Dr. Tecle continuously stays current on all the latest studies and technology in the practice of kids and young adults dentistry by traveling annually to various locations to participate in many hours of continuing education focused on kids and young adults dentistry. Over the years, he has honed his skills in creating an efficient, comfortable and engaging environment for his young patients, ensuring that even the most anxious patients have a positive dental experience.

Driven by his passion for dentistry for kids, Dr. Tecle immersed himself wholeheartedly to the design of Say Cheeze Dental. From the serene lobby crafted to ease patients upon arrival to the open bay layout fostering sibling connections, the clinic’s design highlights his commitment to cultivating an environment that is warm, welcoming, and tailored to the needs of children and families alike.

Outside of his professional life, Dr. Tecle finds joy in various activities, including group running and training for half-marathons. He also indulges in his musical interests, playing the acoustic guitar and mandolin alongside family and friends. An avid lover of gardening and nature, he enjoys hiking and exploring the scenic beauty of the North Carolina mountains, particularly Grandfather Mountain and Mt. Mitchell. In 2017, Dr. Tecle married Kristina, and together they are raising their energetic son, Gideon, who keeps them busy with swimming, music, and soccer. The family relocated from Cary, NC to Apex, NC, in 2021, embracing the community and embarking on adventures throughout the region, from the charming towns of Banner Elk and Blowing Rock to the majestic landscapes of the Western North Carolina mountains.

With a long-term vision in their joint business partnership, Dr. Tecle and his colleague co-founded and established Say Cheeze Dental in Apex. He extends a warm invitation for you to experience exceptional dental care and welcomes you to his new dental home.

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Dr. Fraites is a 1996 alumnus of MeHarry Medical College in Nashville, TN, where he started his dental journey. Following dental school, he attended a General Practice Residency at Harlem Hospital Medical Center in Manhattan, his hometown in NY.

Originally from Jamaica, Queens, Dr. Fraites relocated to New Jersey at 15 and attended Middletown H.S. South. His academic path led him to Winston-Salem State University in North Carolina, where his passion for the Sciences, particularly biology and chemistry, flourished.

Serving in the United States Air Force as a Major until 2007, Dr. Fraites cherished his eight years of military service. In 2008, he established Angier Dental in Angier, NC, where he practiced until 2017.

During his tenure at Snow Hill dental clinic in Greenville, NC, Dr. Fraites discovered a passion for working with children and young adults. His experience expanded further at Smile Starters.

In 2017, Dr. Fraites relocated to Apex, NC, following his marriage to Suzanne. Together, they are blessed with two sons, Darian and Maxton, who keep them active with sports like flag football, Jui Jitsu, wrestling, and soccer. Their family adventures include exploring the diverse landscapes of the Carolinas, with a special fondness for beaches like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head. They also frequently visit Canada, Suzanne's home country, where they enjoy time with her family amidst the picturesque scenery of Green Mountain, New Brunswick, where moose and bears roam.

With a long-term vision and pride in their joint business partnership, Dr. Fraites and his colleague co-founded and established Say Cheeze Dental in Apex. He extends a warm invitation for you to experience exceptional dental care and welcomes you to his new dental home.

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