BUILDING PERSONAL CONNECTIONS
I am grateful to have chosen a profession that allows me to be with people and interact with them in a helpful way; in turn, I have patients who are grateful to me for restoring their smile and dental health. We are enriching each other’s lives by working together to improve oral health, overall wellness, and quality of life.
Being a dentist means having a personal, long-term relationship with each of my patients. I love that I hear about their families, their activities and trips and experiences, all while I’m helping them develop stronger health.
I especially enjoy building teeth back to a better bite, and love when I am able to restore a person’s smile, particularly when that person has been unhappy with their teeth.
Each patient offers an opportunity for me to learn, through our conversations, and for me to help, too. I cannot imagine a more fulfilling way to spend my days!
EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL ACTITIVIES
- Undergraduate degree – University of California Santa Barbara
- Doctorate of Dental Surgery – University of the Pacific School of Dentistry, now known as the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
Continuing education is core to who I am as a dentist, and my commitment to my patients and the profession. Dentistry is constantly changing, and it is my responsibility to stay current on the newest techniques, technologies, and materials.
Through participation in the Santa Barbara Dental Study Club, I learn alongside other general dentists and specialists. We meet and discuss complex cases, research, and treatment planning.
I am also an active member of the Santa Barbara-Ventura County Dental Society, the California Dental Association, and the American Dental Association. These organizations offer meetings, lectures, and other continuing education opportunities, as well as many publications. I enjoy being able to learn from dentists from around the world.
I also volunteer to do grammar school dental screenings at McKinley Elementary School and Hollister Elementary School.
BEYOND THE PRACTICE
I grew up in Delano, in California’s Central Valley, where I initially practiced with my father after graduating from dental school. I had done my undergraduate work at UCSB, though, and fell in love with the area. In 1993 I moved back here to practice and haven’t left!
I’ve been married for many years and have two grown stepchildren who are both married and have given us four grandchildren. They live in San Francisco and I wish they lived closer! I also have my mom, dad, and sister here in town, as well as two sisters who live out of town.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and friends. I also love the beach, walking my dog, and surfing, and I’m a sucker for reading mysteries!
