About Us

At Up Pediatric Dentistry, we strive to provide exceptional dental care tailored to each child. Our mission is to foster a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles by combining advanced technology, gentle care, and a welcoming environment that makes every family feel at home.

Dr. Breanna Barnes’s journey into dentistry is one of rediscovery and passion, deeply rooted in her childhood in Olathe, Kansas. Growing up as the daughter of a pediatric dentist, she spent summers immersed in the day-to-day operations of her father’s practice. While initially envisioning a future in medical science or interior design, it wasn’t until college that she realized how dentistry uniquely combines her love of science, creativity, and helping others.

After graduating with honors from Southern Methodist University, Dr. Barnes went on to earn her dental and public health degrees at the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health. Her dedication to specialized pediatric care led her to complete a residency at the University of Tennessee, where she also earned a Master of Dental Science. As a board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Barnes has advanced training in infant frenectomies, laser dentistry, and esthetic restorations like zirconia crowns, enabling her to provide gentle, comprehensive care tailored to each child’s needs.

Driven by a vision to provide compassionate, quality-focused care, Dr. Barnes opened Songbird Pediatric Dentistry to create a welcoming, patient-first practice. Recognizing a need in Fairview, she established the area’s first pediatric dental office, adopting a mom-run, non-corporate approach to dental care. Shortly after, she acquired Up Pediatric Dentistry, where she continues to make exceptional pediatric dental care available to her community. At both of her practices, her goal is to create an environment where every family feels genuinely valued and supported.

Dr. Barnes is particularly passionate about serving children with special needs, including those on the autism spectrum, and infants experiencing nursing challenges due to lip or tongue ties. Her holistic philosophy extends beyond treating dental concerns to addressing underlying causes and preventing future issues. Her mission is to make every child’s dental visit a positive, fun, and supportive experience.

Outside of the office, Dr. Barnes is a wife and proud mother of two toddlers. She enjoys baking gluten-free desserts, exploring antique shops, staying active, and spending time in nature. Both her professional expertise and personal experiences as a parent influence her warm, empathetic approach to pediatric dentistry.

Dr. Melissa D.Porter was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama. As a child, she knew that she wanted to provide care for children when she grew up. Dr. Porter graduated summa cum laude from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University. She continued her training at Meharry Medical College where she completed her Master’s in Health Science, Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and General Practice Residency (GPR) Program, where she served as the Chief Resident.

After completion of her GPR program, Dr. Porter practiced for more than five years serving under represented populations at federally qualified health centers, as well as simultaneously providing care in a Hispanic Dental clinic and Private Practice.Dr. Porter’s determination to further her education and accomplish a life long dream of becoming a Pediatric Dentist did not cease. She recently completed the Meharry Medical College Pediatric Dentistry Residency program in its inaugural class where she served as the program’s first Chief Resident.

Dr. Melissa Porter is a leader who is adamant about increasing dental education forpatients and caregivers, thereby reducing caries and early tooth loss. She has a special interest in the promotion of preventative care, merging Dental Public Health and Pediatric Dentistry, educating future Pediatric Dentists, and completing meaningful research.

When she is not attempting to save one tooth at a time, Dr. Porter enjoys spending quality timewith her son, Jayden, dogs, Zero and Skor, family and close friends. She loves volunteering locally and globally- at community events and on international mission trips, exploring new restaurants, reading “physical” books, caring for her many plant babies and “hunting for unique finds” (shopping).

Dr. Melissa D.Porter is honored to provide care for your child at UP Pediatric Dentistry!

At Up Pediatric Dentistry, we make your child’s first visit memorable with our welcoming team, fun amenities, and personalized care. From friendly introductions to gentle exams, we ensure a stress-free experience for both kids and parents.

Tiny Ties is Dr. Barnes’ dedicated practice for tongue and lip-tie procedures. Operating from Up Pediatric Dentistry and Songbird Smiles, Tiny Ties offers expert care to help infants and children thrive in feeding, speech, and development, setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles.