Every day, I know I am one of the luckiest people in the world because I get to help people by doing something that makes them happier with themselves. My job is challenging and interesting, and I am always learning something inside the office and out. On top of that, I get to meet new, diverse, and interesting people all day long and form connections that last. I even get hugs from little ones and their parents.
I approach my practice and my patients the way I would like to be treated. I want our patients to feel comfortable, relaxed, safe, respected, and well cared for. My patients are valuable people in my life and make each day feel new. And the youthful enthusiasm of kids helps keep me young.
My academic experience includes:
I take joy in the fact that orthodontics is both an art and a science. I love combining the artist’s eye with a good bite to make a stunning smile. I love my profession and have always enjoyed continuing to learn more since I first became an orthodontist in 1999. Because of my role as a formally recognized Continuing Education (CE) provider for the State of California, I am able to actively offer CE classes to doctors. I also require my staff to undergo at least 12 to 15 hours of CE in addition to their certification requirements.
For seven years, I had the privilege of giving back directly to the next generation of orthodontic professionals at the University of California at San Francisco. I taught as an Associate Clinical Professor in the Department of Orthodontics, and I served as the Director for Invisalign® and Damon® System curriculums.
I have spoken at regional and national orthodontics meetings, and I remain a member of the state and local alliances of:
University of
Connecticut
American Association
of Orthodontics
Even though I grew up in Ridgefield, CT, I am originally a native of Auckland, New Zealand, so many of my favorite activities take place outside. One of the big reasons I settled in Santa Rosa, CA, is because of its wonderful weather where I get to enjoy swimming, road biking, and running. This location also gives me the perfect opportunity to participate in triathlons, camping, hiking, SUP and my new obsession pickleball!
When I’m not exercising, I am eating something yummy that I have cooked/baked from scratch (hence the excessive exercising) and spending time with my friends, family, or my Weimaraner Kiwi and Frenchie Blueberry.
I am passionate about improving the health and well-being of my community through access to adequate affordable dental and orthodontic care.
I serve on the Board of Directors for Smiles Change Lives, active in my church and community. I am a past participant of Leadership Santa Rosa, Class 25, and Junior League of Napa, Sonoma.
My office strives to give back to the community. We attend Kidspree and the Human Race annually. Our office founded makesomeonesmile.org, a local non-profit fundraising site, in 2009 to help low-income children get dental care.