I graduated from Bonita Vista High School, where my now-husband and I became high school sweethearts. While attending University of California, San Diego, I explored my different career options. I chose to become a dentist because I wanted to help others by improving their health and I wanted to provide the best treatment for my patients without being told how to treat patients by a big hospital or an insurance company interested in their bottom line. After graduating magna cum laude from UCSD with a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Biology, I received a UC Regents Scholarship and studied for another 4 years to become a dentist at the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Dentistry. I obtained my D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery) with magna cum laude honors and numerous other awards. From there, I honed my general dentistry skills with a 1-year AEGD residency (Advanced Education in General Dentistry) at the University of Florida, College of Dentistry, Jacksonville program. I moved back to Southern California and, for several years, provided dental treatment for many patients as a general dentist. Treating patients, who had poor alignment of teeth, made me appreciate the oral health benefits of having proper alignment and bite relationships. It sparked my interest in orthodontics. I pursued my post-graduate training from the 30-month orthodontic residency program at the University of Colorado, School of Dental Medicine, where I earned my specialty certificate in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics and a Master of Science degree in Dentistry. I am the only Japanese speaking orthodontist in San Diego county.

I consider myself to have high ethical standards and integrity. Everyday, I try hard, give it my all, without compromising on integrity, and strive to be a good person. It is ingrained in me to always try my best. Thus, you can count on me that I will do the best that I can to provide the best possible orthodontic care for you or your child.

It is in my nature to be curious about a variety of topics and I love gaining new knowledge. This thirst for knowledge is one of the reasons why orthodontics is fascinating to me. Theres always new technological advances and research articles coming out, which may affect the way we should practice orthodontics. It is called the practice of dentistry because we, dental professionals, should never stop learning. I will be a perpetual student in the field of orthodontics, never ceasing to advance my knowledge and skills, so that I may be able to provide the best care for my patients.

I love being an orthodontist! The best part of my work is being able to contribute to my patients happiness in life by helping to attain a beautiful smile to match the inner beauty that each and every patient possesses. In addition, I enjoy getting to know each one of my patients and building relationships. Seeing my patients on a regular basis during treatment is fun! Treating adolescents is particularly rewarding because I often get to contribute to their transformation toward adulthood.

I have lived in many different cities, including in Japan and Canada, but its difficult to live anywhere else when I have been spoiled here in San Diego! My favorite part of San Diego is the nice easy going people and, of course, the weather. My husband and I have been married 15 years and we have 2 daughters. I enjoy spending time with my family, eating a variety of foods, surfing the web, and drinking tea. My other interests include playing games and cooking new dishes.

Im a mom of 3 and my husband and I have been married for over 5 years. We all enjoy taking in everything that San Diego has to offer. I love all things Star Wars and Keto friendly taco shops. I look forward to getting to know you.

Since starting at Marshall Orthodontics, Ive acquired a certain set of skills to be your smile architect! When Dr. Marshall isnt perfecting your smile, I am the one you will see while in the chair! I am so happy to assist our patients in their orthodontic journey!

Im most noticed for my changing hair color; maybe youll help me decide on my next look? When Im not assisting Dr. Marshall with the mechanics of your orthodontic journey, Im crocheting and binge watching Netflix. Ask me about my menagerie of pets!

I have 7 years experience in insurance billing and financial accounts. I love what I do and am always happy to help serve you! If you have any questions regarding financials or insurance, feel free to let us know! If I happen to be unavailable, leave a message with any of our awesome front office ladies and I can get back to you as soon as I can!

On my spare time, I like to read non-fiction and military history. My husband and I like to spend time outdoors exploring new areas and off-road trails. Together we have 2 children and 2 German Shepherds who are like children. One of my biggest joys is watching my children learn and grow!

Its more important than ever to brush and floss regularly when you have braces, so the teeth and gums are healthy during orthodontic treatment. Patients who do not keep their teeth clean may require more frequent visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning. Adults who have a history of gum disease should also see a periodontist during orthodontic treatment. Watch the video below on the proper care of braces during orthodontic treatment.

What can you eat? Lets talk about what you shouldnt eat! For the first day or so, stick to soft foods. Avoid tough meats, hard breads, and raw vegetables. Before long, youll be able to bite a cucumber again. But youll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as youre wearing braces.

When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for 3 5 days. Take Tylenol or whatever you normally take for headache or discomfort. The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become accustomed to the braces. We will supply wax to put on the braces in irritated areas to lessen discomfort.

To successfully complete orthodontic treatment, the patient must work together with the orthodontist. The teeth and jaws can only move toward their corrected positions if the patient consistently wears the rubber bands or other appliances as prescribed. Lack of cooperation following instructions and damaged appliances lengthen the treatment time so please follow instructions.