Board Certified Orthodontist

One of the many things I love about orthodontics is that orthodontic treatment can completely change someone’s facial appearance. Depending on a person’s jaw shape, tooth size, and many other factors, if planned properly, orthodontic treatment can have a positive impact on a patient’s facial aesthetics, not just when the braces are removed, but well into the future! I love looking at each patient’s unique situation to determine what treatment options will deliver the best combination of health, function, and aesthetics for that individual.

Orthodontic treatment involves multiple appointments over a period of time. As a result, whether we are caring for a child, teen, or adult, I’ve learned the joy of getting to know each of my patients as the remarkable individuals they are and having the opportunity to hear about the life that surrounds their smile. I love to hear about my patients’ events and accomplishments such as graduations, performances, awards they receive, and articles about them in the newspaper. It is amazing to see the smiles I have helped create show up in the public eye as authors on bookstands, at national sporting events, on television, and even at the Olympics! It is truly rewarding to see our patients, using their new smiles confidently and proudly out in the real world, wherever life may take them.

Education

I attended the University of California at San Diego for my Bachelor’s degree in microbiology and a minor in psychology. From San Diego, I travelled to Ann Arbor, Michigan where I studied dentistry at the University of Michigan. At Michigan, I received my Doctorate in Dental Surgery (DDS), graduated Summa Cum Laude, and was inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the dental honor society.

For my specialty residency in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, I was proud to earn acceptance at the University of Washington- one of the most prestigious orthodontic programs in the United States. At UW, I earned my specialist certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, a Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD), and wrote a Master’s thesis. I went on to publish an article based on my Master’s thesis research in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. 

My formal education has provided me with an excellent foundational knowledge of the field. Orthodontics, however, is constantly evolving. I regularly attend professional meetings, review multiple research journals, and study online to stay on top of the newest developments, techniques, equipment, materials, and technology. Staying current with the latest research in dentistry and orthodontics ensures that I am able to provide my patients with all possible treatment options as well as discuss the information they need to make educated decisions about their care.

Professional Memberships

  • American Board of Orthodontics, Diplomate
  • American Association of Orthodontists
  • Washington State Society of Orthodontists
  • Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists
  • American Dental Association
  • Washington State Dental Association
  • Kitsap County Dental Society, past president

Outside the Office

I live in Silverdale with my husband Rob, two daughters, and our two crazy Labrador Retrievers Rex and Snoopy. Rob is a firefighter with the City of Bremerton.

Spending quality time with my family is my priority when I’m not caring for my patients. I make a point to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors, whether I’m hiking, snow skiing, running, biking, paddle boarding or swimming. On weekends, I can often be found at a swim meet cheering for my daughters in their sporting endeavors.

In the Community

For many years, I volunteered at my daughters’ schools, leading small math and reading groups, to enhance children’s learning. I do presentations at local public elementary schools, providing oral health education, and participate in Girls Exploring Math and Science programs upon request. I support many local youth sports teams, 4-H students, and youth music programs through sponsorships. I am proud to partner with Kitsap Youth Lacrosse Association providing custom sports mouthguards for their players. I also support local professional programs, such as the Kitsap County Medical Society Foundation, and the YMCA Strong Kids program. These organizations are aligned with my passion of improving the health and development of children in our wonderful community.

^ sesame communicationsWebsite Powered by Sesame 24-7™ /Site Map