I love making people smile. When a patient comes in someone who has been avoiding smiling or showing their teeth because they are uncomfortable with how they look I can help them. When that person leaves with a giant, healthy, and beautiful smile on their face, there is simply no better feeling.
I love helping people feel comfortable coming to see me. Many patients are anxious in the dental chair, and avoid seeing a dentist for years because of that fear. I cant tell you how many people Ive cared for who were terrified when they came for their first visit. My goal is to work with them so they become increasingly comfortable and relaxed at each visit, learning to stop dreading dental care, and hopefully to eventually look forward to their visits.
My patients are special to me. Theyre far more than patients; in fact, theyre my friends. I love watching families grow and change. I love hearing of new babies, marriages, graduations, new jobs, new homes, and retirements. I love getting to know each person, learning what they enjoy doing and hearing about their lives.
I received my Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, and graduated in the top 10% of my class. I was awarded a certificate of merit for achievement, proficiency, and promise in the field of oral medicine. I became a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Society and the Sigma Beta Delta International Honor Society.
Each year I pursue continuing education offerings locally, regionally, and nationally. By staying at the leading edge of knowledge, I am able to ensure my patients always receive the highest level of care. There are constant changes in dental technology, materials, and techniques: I need to be current on everything. Areas of recent concentration include implant dentistry, 3D imaging for implant placement and restoration, and CEREC single-visit crowns.
When Im not caring for my patients, spending time with my son, Grayson, and daughter, Lily, is my priority. I especially love it when we can be enjoying the outdoors together. Our family also includes Penny and Boomer, our dogs, who love having Grayson and Lily around. Personally, I enjoy water skiing, wakeboarding, snow skiing, hiking, and camping. I love living in Coeur dAlene, where we have access to so many wonderful recreational activities, year round!