WRITER LESLIE OGLE

Fifteen years ago, two sisters with a shared calling, a deep faith in one another, and an unshakable belief in the power of caring for people as whole human beings opened their doors to what would become one of Lake Norman’s most trusted dental practices. Today, as Lembo Montgomery Cosmetic & Family Dentistry celebrates its 15th anniversary, Dr. Kara Lembo and Dr. Lindsay Montgomery are pausing—not to look back with pride alone, but to look around with immense gratitude.

“This practice has never just been about dentistry,” Dr. Lembo says, “or two sisters’ journey. It’s about relationships, our team, our families, our patients, and our community that has supported us from day one.”

Raised in Cedarville, Michigan, the sisters grew up in a household where family came first and service was a way of life. Their father, John J. Scherer, DDS, practiced dentistry for more than 40 years, and his influence shaped both their professional paths and their personal values. “Our parents taught us about character, leadership, and showing up for people,” Dr. Montgomery shares. “Watching our dad care for his patients (and truly know them on a personal level) left a lasting impression.”

Both sisters worked alongside their father early on, gaining firsthand experience of how dentistry could positively impact people not only physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. For Dr. Montgomery, that foundation led her to serve eight years in the United States Navy, including deployment overseas during Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing dental care to service members. She was later awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for her dedication. “That time taught me perspective,” she says. “It showed me how powerful compassion can be, especially during uncertain or stressful moments in someone’s life.”

Diagnosed at age 46 with invasive ductal carcinoma in situ, Dr. Lembo faced a journey that reshaped her understanding of life as well. “Cancer gave me a new perspective,” she says. “I’m not the same person I was before … and that’s okay. I’m stronger now. Wiser. And deeply grateful.” She has since become an advocate for women’s health, emphasizing the importance of annual exams alongside mammograms. “If sharing my story helps even one woman, it’s worth it.”

The sisters, however, are quick to shift the attention away from them and instead look to those who have helped turn their shared dream into a reality … a beautiful and rare reality. When the sisters joined forces and opened their practice all those years ago, they brought not only clinical excellence to Lake Norman, but also a philosophy rooted in teamwork and trust. One of the things they are most proud of is the remarkable group of women who have stood beside them for much of their journey.

“Our team is the heartbeat of this practice,” Dr. Montgomery says. “Some of these women have been with us for over a decade. They’ve grown with us, supported us, and helped shape the culture we’re known for today.”

Dr. Lembo agrees. “We believe in a ‘Happy Team, Happy Patients’ mindset, and that only works when people feel valued and appreciated. We are incredibly blessed by the dedication, loyalty, and positivity our team brings every single day.”

Throughout it all, the sisters leaned on each other, their team, and their community. They also leaned on the lessons their father instilled in them—lessons that became even more meaningful after his passing in 2020 following a battle with pancreatic cancer. “Our dad always told us to believe in ourselves and in each other,” Dr. Montgomery says softly. “He was our rock. We carry him with us in everything we do.”

Today, that legacy is reflected not only in their thriving practice, but in their commitment to giving back. From supporting local initiatives to mentoring young women, Drs. Lembo and Montgomery believe success carries responsibility. “We want to be role models,” they reiterate. “Especially for young women who may not yet realize what’s possible.”

Fifteen years in, the sisters view their journey as something built collectively — shaped by patients, strengthened by colleagues, supported by family, and anchored by community. “This practice has always been about trust and relationships,” says Dr. Lembo. “That’s what keeps us grounded and moving forward.” Dr. Montgomery adds: “There are so many who believed in us early on and who stood beside us … and that allowed us to build something strong and lasting.

Photo credits to Chelsea Bren of Chelsea Bren Photo + Design.