As a patient of Smiles of Carolina, you can count on our team to get to know you and your family. Because we are a small family practice with consistent staff, you can get to know us too and be helped by the same familiar people every time you come to our office.
Our team is made up of smart, fun, kind, and intelligent people who also happen to be skilled and talented dental professionals -- and we love what we do! We look forward to meeting you and your family and welcoming you to our practice!
Dr. Ko is one of Smiles of Carolinas partner dentists. He is a graduate of UNC dental school and upon receiving his dental degree, continued his education, receiving a Masters degree in Public Health at UNC. Dr. Ko spent three years, while in pursuit of his masters, providing care to the under-served population of Halifax county and Eastern regions of North Carolina. He enjoys all aspects of dentistry, particularly treating children. When away from the office, Dr. Ko enjoys time with his family and exploring new cultures. He will be happy to answer any questions you have about your dental health.
Dr. Mark is one of Smiles of Carolinas partner dentists. Originally from the state of NJ, Dr. Mark graduated UMDNJ NJ Dental School in 2003. He went on to proudly serve our country in the United States Air Force, during which he obtained immeasurable experience in many aspects of Dentistry. Throughout his training and practice, Dr. Mark has never forgotten what matters most, which is helping others in need. In his spare time, Dr. Mark enjoys spending time with his wife and son, traveling, skiing and playing hockey. He strives to ensure your visit at Smiles of Carolina is pleasant and comfortable.
Jessica is originally from Wendell, NC. She joined our team in 2014 as the treatment coordinator and has transitioned to the Office Manager. Jessica enjoys building a strong relationship with our patients.
Ayalivis is our Dental Assistant II since 2012, and received certification fromWake Technical Community College. She has been assisting for ten years, andstill loves it. Originally from Dominican Republic, is fluent in both Spanish and English, enjoys spending time with her three children, as well as cooking and visiting her family in the DRwheneverpossible. Working in the dental field has been very enjoyablebecauseshe loves to help people achieve their dental goalsand leavewith a smile.
Codi is our Registered Dental Hygienist since 2015, graduated from Halifax Community College. She was born and raised in north Raleigh, NC. She enjoys weekend trips to the beach and spending time with friends and family. Codi has 'always had a thing for teeth' and knew at a very young age she wanted to be a hygienist because 'smiles are the first thing noticed on people'. Building relationships with patients is one of her favorite parts about being a dental hygienist.
Dara is our Registered Dental Hygienist since 2018, graduated from Wayne Community College, in Goldsboro, in 2014. Dara started in the dental field in 2010 as a dental assistant. She was born near Queens, New York but grew up in Cary. She now lives in Clayton with her husband and two children. Dara loves any kind of gardening and being outside, board games with her friends and family, a good television series and loving on her pet chickens. What Dara enjoys most about being a hygienist is seeing patients reach their optimal dental health.
Karina is our DANB Certified Dental Assistant since 2016, graduated from the dental assisting program at Wake Technical Community College in 2012. Born in Mexicoand hasbeen living in NC sinceshe was a child. In her free time, she enjoys watching movies, reading, and spending timewith her family and friends. She is fluent in both English and Spanish. Working in the dental fieldhas been veryrewardingfor her because she gets to help patients feel comfortablewhile taking care of their dental needs during their visit.
Kelsie is originally born in Maryland but raised in Johnston county. As the treatment coordinator, Kelsie loves building relationships with patients, making sure they feel they are important to us and them understanding the importance of their dental health. When she is not at work you can typically find her spending time with her husband and son, and enjoying time at their pool with friends!
Judy is originally from South Korea. She graduated from UNC-CH with a Masters Degree in Library and Information Science, then attended Wake Tech for Culinary arts. Judy joined our team in September 2019. Judy is very dedicated to assisting our patients with their insurance needs. When Judy is not in our office she enjoys running, hiking with her husband, or watching Netflix movies with her 2 boys.
Minh has been a part of our team since October 2019. She was born and raised in Da Nang, Viet Nam. She moved to Seattle, WA in the spring of 2014, and then relocated to Raleigh, NC to be closer to her family. Minh attended Wake Technical Community College and graduated in 2019 in Dental Hygiene. She loves being able to help patients achieve optimal dental health and a beautiful smile. Minh is proud to be a part of such a dedicated, compassionate practice. She wants to make sure you are comfortable during your treatment at Smiles of Carolina. Outside of the office, Minh enjoys cooking and eating different types of food, shopping, traveling and sharing special times with family
Yesenia is our Dental Assistant II since 2009 and works both as a patient coordinator and DA. Originally from Florida she enjoys spending quality time with her family & loves to help others when they need a hand. Fluent in both Spanish and English. Yesenia enjoys working in the dental field because she loves to see great smiles.
So far so good. The staff was knowledgeable, friendly, and seemed genuine. Usually my blood pressure sky rockets when it comes to the dentist but they kept me calm and assured me everything would be fine. I will be going back. Debbie was very sweet and down to earth