Shelby Nelson, DMD

Originally from Spartanburg, SC, Dr. Shelby Nelson has always been passionate about helping people feel confident in their smiles. Her philosophy as a general and cosmetic dentist in Brentwood, TN is to partner with patients to achieve healthy, beautiful smiles through minimally invasive treatment, advanced technology, and modern dental materials. She believes exceptional dentistry goes beyond treating teeth—it begins with listening, educating, and creating individualized treatment plans that consider each patient’s overall health, function, and long-term goals. Dr. Nelson is committed to making every patient feel informed, comfortable, and genuinely cared for throughout their experience at Brentwood Dental Center.

In 2012, Dr. Nelson attended the University of St Andrews in Scotland to study biology for two years. She completed her degree in biology at Wofford College. After graduating from dental school at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), she moved to Nashville, TN to begin practicing. Dr. Nelson is an active member of the Tennessee State Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, and the Spear Institute.

Outside the office, Dr. Nelson enjoys spending time with her family, staying active, and exploring all that Middle Tennessee has to offer. She and her husband, Dr. David Xiao, have built their home in Nashville while he completes his trauma surgery training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Together, they love watching their daughter, Clara, discover the world around her and are excited to welcome another little one to their growing family soon. When she’s not in the office, you’ll often find Dr. Nelson trying new restaurants around Nashville, enjoying time with family and friends, or exploring the outdoors with Clara and their beloved vizsla, Nellie.