Courtesy Photo- (L to R) Laval, Victoria, Evelyn Crystal and Patrick
In the heart of Michigan, a remarkable family is redefining excellence in dentistry while inspiring future generations. The Lucas-Perry family, a multigenerational powerhouse in the dental field, has cultivated a legacy of commitment, service, and education, making a lasting impact on communities across the state. With nearly 80 years of combined experience, their story is not just about dentistry, it’s about resilience, vision, and breaking barriers.
A Legacy Rooted in Excellence
At the helm of this inspiring family is Dr. Patricia Lucas, a trailblazing dentist who not only mastered her craft but also instilled a deep passion for dentistry in her children. Today, her daughters, Dr. Victoria Lucas-Perry and Dr. Evelyn Cheek, continue her legacy as accomplished dentists and practice owners, managing a combined eight Aspen Dental locations. Their ability and leadership have helped expand access to quality dental care for countless individuals across Michigan.
Their journeys were influenced by more than just family. Both Dr. Lucas-Perry and Dr. Cheek carved their own paths, bringing unique experiences and innovations to their profession. Prior to opening her Aspen Dental practices in Allen Park and Ypsilanti, Dr. Cheek served as Director of Public Policy Research at the American Dental Education Association, where she conducted groundbreaking research on public health and academic dentistry. Similarly, Dr. Lucas-Perry combined her business acumen and clinical expertise to grow her practices in Livonia, Canton, Lake Orion-Auburn Hills, Chesterfield, Roseville, and Novi, leaving an indelible mark on the field.
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges
The Lucas-Perry family has faced challenges that come with being Black professionals in a historically underrepresented field. Yet, rather than seeing these obstacles as deterrents, they viewed them as opportunities to cultivate resilience, excellence, and leadership.
"The challenges of race and sexism weren’t barriers; they were stepping stones," says Dr. Cheek. "They gave us the grit to succeed and the responsibility to open doors for others."
Their commitment to representation and equity in healthcare extends far beyond their personal success. Through mentorship programs like Ross and Dorsey, they actively train and inspire future dental assistants and aspiring dental professionals. Their mission is clear: to fi healthcare inequities and ensure that oral health is accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status.
Family, Unity, and Shared Success
Beyond their professional achievements, the Lucas-Perry family is bound by an unshakable sense of unity. Their father, William Lucas, a retired FBI agent, has been instrumental in managing the business side of their operations. Their siblings, Dr. Patrick Lucas-Perry and Lavel Lucas-Perry, RDH, contribute their expertise as a dentist and lead dental hygienist, respectively. Together, they own and run 14 Aspen Dental locations across Michigan, serving hundreds of patients with a holistic, patient-centered approach.
This strong familial bond was forged through a commitment to education and discipline. Their grandparents instilled in them a belief that "consistency breeds excellence," a mantra that has guided them through both their professional and personal lives. Their competitive yet supportive dynamic has propelled them forward, ensuring that each member contributes to the family’s collective success.
A Passion for Excellence on and Off the Court
The Lucas-Perry family’s excellence is not confined to dentistry. Both Dr. Victoria Lucas-Perry and Laval Lucas-Perry excelled as Division I basketball players. Dr. Victoria left her mark at Michigan State University, ranking 11th in points, 4th in three-pointers made, and 2nd in career games in school history. Laval played at the University of Michigan, further cementing the family’s legacy in athletics. Dr. Lucas-Perry was even drafted by the Seattle Storm but ultimately chose to pursue dentistry—a decision that honored both her personal ambitions and her mother’s enduring influence.
Expanding Access to Care
One of the family’s greatest priorities is addressing healthcare disparities. Through their partnership with Aspen Dental, they have been able to reach underserved communities and make dental care more accessible. Their approach follows the "Five A’s" model-Affordability, Accessibility, Awareness, Availability, and Accountability-ensuring that patients receive the best possible care tailored to their needs.
"We believe in meeting people where they are and providing the highest quality of care," says Dr. Lucas-Perry. "Through our work, we strive to bridge the gap in dental health inequities."
Creating a Legacy of Inspiration
For the Lucas-Perry family, dentistry is more than a career; it’s a calling. Their story is a testament to the power of perseverance, education, and community service. As they continue to expand their reach, they remain steadfast in their mission to inspire the next generation of Black dental professionals, proving that success is not just measured in accolades but in the lives they touch.
Their impact extends beyond their clinics and into the communities they serve. Whether through mentorship, advocacy, or direct patient care, they embody the idea that "cream always rises to the top." By breaking barriers, building bridges, and strengthening their family bond through a shared vision, the Lucas-Perry family stands as a beacon of excellence, proving that success is most meaningful when it is used to uplift others.
As Black History Month unfolds, their story serves as a powerful reminder that representation matters, legacies are built through service, and the future of healthcare is brighter because of families like the Lucas-Perrys.
Looking Ahead
The Chronicle is honored to highlight the Lucas-Perry family as a pillar of inspiration for Black History Month. Their unwavering dedication to dentistry, community service, and mentorship is a testament to the impact that strong values, education, and resilience can have on shaping the future.
For those interested in supporting the mission ensuring access to quality dental care, we encourage community members and businesses to partner with the Lucas-Perry family through their various initiatives. We also hope to see them regularly in The Chronicle, showcasing their commitment to the communities they serve. Smiles all around, indeed!
Lucas-Perry Dental Group Locations
Dr. Patricia Lucas
Woodhaven
📍 20310 West Rd, Woodhaven, MI 48183📞 (734) 672-9248🔗 Website
Bay City
📍 3505 Wilder Rd Ste A, Bay City, MI 48706📞 (989) 895-6600🔗 Website
Brighton
📍 8379 W Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI 48116📞 (810) 224-9550🔗 Website
Flint
📍 G3538 Miller Road Ste A, Flint, MI 48507📞 (810) 424-0400🔗 Website
Saginaw
📍 2685 Tittabawassee Rd, Saginaw, MI 48604📞 (989) 755-6600🔗 Website
Taylor
📍 22010 Eureka Rd, Taylor, MI 48180📞 (313) 766-0111🔗 Website
Dr. Evelyn Cheek
Allen Park
📍 3365 Fairlane Dr, Allen Park, MI 48101📞 (313) 749-0799🔗 Website
Ypsilanti
📍 3785 Carpenter Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197📞 (734) 272-4527🔗 Website
Dr. Patrick Lucas-Perry (Partners with Dr. Patricia Lucas)
Bay City
📍 3505 Wilder Rd Ste A, Bay City, MI 48706📞 (989) 895-6600🔗 Website
Dr. Victoria Lucas-Perry
Canton
📍 39883 Ford Rd, Canton, MI 48187📞 (734) 456-3155🔗 Website
Lake Orion-Auburn Hills
📍 4929 S Baldwin Rd Ste 104, Lake Orion, MI 48359📞 (248) 221-1743🔗 Website
Chesterfield
📍 50503 Gratiot Ave, Chesterfield, MI 48051📞 (586) 273-6120🔗 Website
Livonia
📍 13417 Middlebelt Rd, Livonia, MI 48150📞 (734) 245-9304🔗 Website
Roseville
📍 20861 E 13 Mile Rd, Roseville, MI 48066📞 (586) 298-3277🔗 Website
Novi
📍 26222 Novi Road, Novi, MI 48375📞 (248) 697-3101🔗 Website
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