Improving Lives While Building Relationships
As a dentist, I am honored that each patient trusts me to take care of oral health. I love that I care for a diverse community and the uniqueness of each person. It’s rewarding to get to know a patient, and build a relationship, and I smile when people open up and tell me they look forward to visits.
For me, dental care is a journey I take with each patient. It starts with our first conversations, as I learn who they are and their smile goals. Together, we figure out how to achieve that goal. As we work on improving the person’s oral health, we get to know each other and often become close. The best moments are when we’ve finished treatment and I see the genuine happiness in their eyes and smiles.
My days are filled with wonderful conversations as I help others. Whether I’m caring for a child at his or her first trip to the dentist, relieving pain, restoring function, or making a smile even more beautiful, I’m touching lives. Dentistry is so much more than treating teeth: It’s caring for people one-to-one. I cannot imagine a more fulfilling way to spend my days.
Education and Continuing Education
My undergraduate degree was received at Missouri Southern State University. I then enrolled at the University of Missouri Kansas City, where I was awarded my Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS).
Being a dentist carries great responsibility. This is a constantly changing field, with ongoing advances in technology, materials, and techniques. My patients trust me to provide the best experience and results; continuing education allows me to exceed their expectations.
I attend oral healthcare seminars, lectures, and conferences. I also avidly read about research and discussions of treatment modalities through various journals and professional publications.
Professional Memberships
Personal Life
I was a military child, so I lived in several places while growing up. Prior to moving to Missouri, we lived in Okinawa, Japan for four years. I’ve lived in Missouri, near Fort Leonard Wood, since I was eight. I currently live in Independence.
I’m a newlywed, having married my husband Nathan in June 2016. Nathan and I met during my undergraduate years, in Joplin, where he’s from. We share our lives with a wonderful dog.
Nathan and I enjoy spending our weekends exploring Kansas City and finding new things to do. When we’re home, we love time with our dog and like to take on various DIY projects.