I was once an orthodonticpatient with braces. Having braces atten years old meant transforming my buck teeth into a great smile, so I had more confidence and got less teasing from my brother and sister!Now, as an adult and an orthodontist, I am still pleased withmy smile and I know I have a healthy bitetoo. My own experience inspires me to give each patient a great-looking and healthy smile!

I look forward tospending time with my patients each day. I consider myself lucky to have an extended family through my patients, their families, andmy staff. Its amazing totreat general dentistsfamilies, and multiple generations, and to hear stories of graduations, new jobs, weddings, and births. I love seeing familiar smiles in school pictures, newspapers, magazines, and on Facebook. And Im thrilled when patients tell me their orthodontic experience has inspired them to become dental assistants and hygienists, dentists, and even orthodontists!

We are passionate about what we do and truly care about each patient. We all live in the same community and see current and formerpatients at school, church, day care, the gym, and at sports and community gatherings. We build strong bonds with each patient and consider everyoneto be family!

My Doctorate of Dental Surgery and orthodontics certificate were awarded by Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry, where I graduated with honors and due to my academic excellence I was inducted into thePhi Kappa PhiNational Honor Society. My motivation and enthusiasm for oral healthcare led me to be one of thefew dentists in the nation to attend andcomplete anaccelerated combined undergraduate and DDS program. This involved studying at both Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry and the University of Missouri at Kansas City.

Staying innovative through continuing education at local and national meetings, and as an adjunct faculty member at Virginia Commonwealth Universitys Orthodontics Department, is important to me. I evaluate and critique new technology and methods, and only adoptthem when Im certain they will benefit my patients.

Ive lived in Virginia for most of my life. My life is shared with my husband, daughter, a cat, anda fish. When Imnot caring for patients, I enjoy sports and fitness, especially jogging, swimming, and playing tennis. I also love time at the beach and am a total foodie!I enjoy helping in my local community through various charitable organizations and my daughters school and extracuricular activities.

As a clinician, I love being an integral part of each patients journey to a healthy, beautiful smile, and witnessing their joy when they see what theyve achieved. On a personal level, I truly enjoy getting to know my patients and their families through our conversations during visits. We build relationships that last for years, as parents bring their other children, and even themselves, for care. I love seeing familiar, beautiful smiles in our community, and sharing in each persons life.

Each of us strives to treat each and every patient with the utmost care, compassion, and respect, in order to make them feel they are truly part of our orthodontic family. We all enjoy being part of our patients lives and sharing our own experiences, too. Our conversations build strong bonds between patients, their families, and our team.

I attended Lehigh University where I received a Bachelor of Artsin behavioral neuroscience with aminor in French.While at Lehigh, I was inducted into the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society. Ienrolled at the University of Pensylvania School of Dental Medicine, where I graduated with honors and was awarded my Doctorate of Dental Medicine.

Im passionate about ongoing developments in orthodontic techniques, materials, and technologies. I constantly strive to further my personal and professional growth in this ever-changing field, in an unceasing effort to be the best clinician and caregiver I can be. Each year I complete many continuing education courses on a wide range of orthodontic topics, from the latest advances in clinical treatments and appliances to digital technology and patient-centered care.

I grew up in San Juan, Puerto Ricoand have called Glen Allenmy home for more than 15 years. My husband Mark is a healthcare executive who loves watching sports and playing golfin his spare time. Mark and I have two children, Kristina and Andrew. When Im not caring for patients, I enjoy swimming, singing, traveling and spending time with my family and friends.

I often participate in community service activities through my childrens schools and my local parish. I believe that to whom much is given, much is expected, and I find a sense of pride and purpose that comes from helping others and working to make the world a better place.

We recognize that all our patients are unique and deserve to receive orthodontic care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding orthodontic experience every time you visit our practice.

I love seeing confidence grow within each patient as they get closer to their dream smile, and celebrating with them when their braces are removed. Its incredible how much happier patients are when they see what theyve achieved: They cant stop looking in the mirror and grinning! I assist the doctors with procedures, to supportthem and our patients. I also work at the front desk.

My life is shared with my husband Brandon, two children, Grayson and Millie, and our two family dogs, Rockey and Dixie. Im active with my churchs praise team and choir. I love traveling, going to the movies, and spending time with family and friends!

I like seeing how our patients notice the changes happening and love their excitement when they see their finished smile! I manage our social media and communications with patients and also designed our company-branded material, including our new logo! You can find me review contracts, estimates and/or laughing with patients and their families at the front desk.

At the end of the day, I like going home to my pup, Leeloo, and binge watching shows like Game of Thronesand The Great British Bake Off.On my days off, I love spending time with friends and family, especially if it involves shopping.

I like meeting new people and learning about their lives while helping each one achieve a great smile. We serve an incredible community, and I love seeing familiar smiles outside the practice! I offer chairside assistance, tohelpthe doctors with procedures. At the same time, Im talking with our patients about what were doing and making sure theyre comfortable.

I havetwo great kids and sweet Bichon Frise named Bella.When Im not working, I like hiking, tubing down the James River, kayaking, going to the beach, and being with my kids. Im also a big sci-fi fan and especially love Star Wars.

I love seeing our patients grow and change during treatment. Whether Im watching a child grow up with a beautiful smile or seeing an adult get the smile theyve always wanted, I love it! Many patients start care saying, I dont smile. As their teeth shift, patients self-esteem and confidence grows and they do smile! I assist the doctors with taking records, fitting bands, and placing braces. I also review home-care instructions with patients and parents and answer their questions.

My wonderful husband Jonathan and I welcomed our first child in April 2016! We have two cats but I keep hoping for dog. Im a bit of a geek and love debating with patients about comic book characters and Lord of the Rings. I also love to cook and am active in my church.

I enjoy seeing the start to finishresult of every patient that comes through our office. Whether it's a simple or a complex case, it's always a dramatic difference, and well worth the wait. Seeingour patients grow not just in age but in confidence is a wonderful experience. I look forward to meeting new people everyday, and getting to know more about them. Having a great smile is something I take pride in each and everyday, and would want all of our patients to have at the end of their treatment.

I enjoy watching patients reactions when their treatment is over because they feel so confident in their smile and I can relate because I once was in treatment myself. I assist the doctors in assuring patients are comfortable in the different procedures that are performed. I love meeting new people and interacting with our patients. Im so thrilled I get to work with such a great and supportive team!

Our smiles are an important part of who we are, how the world sees us, and how we feel about ourselves. When were self-conscious aboutmisaligned teeth, we tend to feel uncertain around others, and worryabout what theyre thinking. As a result, we tend to be less social and avoid interactions.

When our teeth are straight and healthy, though, a new world opens: We know our smile looks incredible and that increases our self-esteem and the confidence with which we greet the world. A beautiful smile sets our minds at ease and were comfortable meeting and talking with others, and smiling without concern.

Well walk you through the plan, and explainwhats happening in your mouth, what Dr. Mei or Dr. Pratt recommends, and why shefeels its right for you. Well also talk about treatment options, your responsibilies as a braces patient, and finances;its essential for you to make an informed decision about your new smile!

Our approach to orthodontics goes beyond tailored treatment plans: We are all people-oriented and enjoy building a rapport with each patient. We want to learn who you are, celebrate your achievements, encourage your dreams, and become your friends. Well be by your side at every step of your orthodontic journey!

At Dominion Orthodontics, we emphasize education. Its important that you understand the role oral health plays in your overall health and vice versa, so well teach you how to care for your mouth and your body. We want you to finish with a smile you love and the know-how and passion to keep it healthy and beautiful!