Dr. James Herron, DDS
Dr. James Herron, DDS, brings a refined, experience-driven approach to dentistry, grounded in both advanced clinical training and a deep commitment to patient care. At Palmetto and Pine in Charlotte, NC, he is known for delivering comprehensive and esthetic restorative dentistry with precision, discretion, and consistency.
Patients seek out Dr. Herron not only for his expertise, but for the thoughtful, personalized experience he provides.
Dr. Herron earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from The Ohio State University in 1997. During his time there, he served two years as President of Student Government and was selected as Team Dentist for The Ohio State Athletic Department, an early reflection of his interest in complex and high-performance care.
Following dental school, he completed a two-year postgraduate General Practice Residency at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte. As chief dental resident in his second year, Dr. Herron focused on traumatic dental injuries, care for medically compromised patients, conscious sedation, and dental implants. This advanced training continues to influence his comprehensive and detail-oriented approach to treatment.
Education and Advanced Training
Clinical Experience and Leadership
In 1999, Dr. Herron joined the practice of Dr. Michael Catanese, DDS, where he practiced until Dr. Catanese’s retirement in 2016. That transition marked the continuation of a long-standing tradition of excellence, which Dr. Herron now carries forward alongside Dr. Evan Smith. Together, they maintain a shared commitment to delivering care at the highest level.
Dr. Herron remains deeply engaged in continuing education, regularly attending advanced training programs at The Dawson Academy, The Pankey Institute, and The Spear Institute. His focus on ongoing learning allows him to provide patients with modern, effective solutions across preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry.
Professional Affiliations and Recognition
Dr. Herron is an active member of numerous respected professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, North Carolina Dental Society, Charlotte Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, Pierre Fauchard Academy, Academy of Sports Dentistry, American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, and Southeastern Academy of Prosthodontics. He is also a past president of the Charlotte Dental Society.
He has been recognized as a Top Dentist in Charlotte by Charlotte Magazine every year since 2007, reflecting both his clinical skill and the trust he has built within the community.
Experience in Sports Dentistry and Trauma Care
Dr. Herron’s experience in sports dentistry sets him apart. He has served as the official Team Dentist for the Carolina Panthers of the NFL and as Team Dentist for the PGA during the Wells Fargo Championship and the 2017 PGA Championship.
This work has given him extensive experience in managing dental trauma and treating patients in high-pressure environments. That same level of preparedness and precision is brought into everyday care, benefiting patients who value expertise and attention to detail.
Commitment to Community
Beyond private practice, Dr. Herron is committed to giving back. One of his most meaningful professional experiences has been working with Project Lift, the Carolina Panthers, and Team Smile to lead care teams providing dental treatment to underserved children in the community.
This commitment reflects the core values of the practice, combining clinical excellence with compassion and service.
Life Outside the Practice
Dr. Herron and his wife, Raelynn, have been married for over 23 years and have raised two children together. Outside of the office, he enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, golfing, skiing, photography, and participating in outdoor activities.
A Thoughtful Approach to Dentistry
It is the mission of Palmetto and Pine to provide exemplary patient-focused care through dedication to the highest ethical, personal, and professional standards. This foundation is built on compassion, honesty, education, and advanced technology, all delivered in a welcoming, relaxed environment.
Patients who choose Dr. Herron value a level of care that is deliberate, personalized, and focused on long-term results. His approach reflects a balance of technical expertise and genuine attentiveness, creating an experience that stands apart.
Schedule a time with us today to meet with Dr. Herron and discuss your oral health goals.